Cadillac Renaissance continues with sales up more than 75 per cent in UAE in 2004

Equally impressive results were seen throughout the Middle East region with total sales up by 50% in the 12-month period.

These results are evidence that GM's US$4.5 billion investment in the renaissance of the premium marque has been money well spent. The Cadillac brand now competes in almost every segment of the luxury automotive market in the region, and its growth in 2004 is testament to the growing preference of the brand among the region's consumers.

"These remarkable figures are the result of a combination of a global renaissance of the Cadillac brand coupled with the efforts and investments of our regional retailers," said Fadi Ghosn, Regional Marketing Manager for Premium Brands at General Motors. "The Cadillac re-birth has seen eight new products launched in the last five years alone with more planned for 2005. That investment is certainly paying off."

The Cadillac renaissance seeks to restore Cadillac's traditional leadership in design and technology. For a century the brand has been known for breakthroughs such as the self-starter, the first mass-produced V8 engine, the first high-volume car to be designed by a stylist, and the first mass-produced vehicle stability system.

More recently, Cadillac's tradition of pioneering technical advancements with real customer benefits has continued with the development of innovative technology such as Magnetic Ride Control - the world's fastest-reacting suspension.

Cadillac's commitment to reclaiming its position as a leading regional player in the luxury automotive market moved into top gear during 2004 with the inauguration of eight new dedicated showrooms in Sharjah, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam as well as Lebanon and Jordan.

These facilities follow a global restyling of Cadillac premises that emphasize its distinctively superior character, using design concepts that express the heart and soul of the brand.

"Our new line-up will be complemented by outstanding customer service," added Ghosn. "Our retailers will provide customers with the first class sales experience and after sales service they deserve."