Report: General Motors Will Stay Serious About Rear-Wheel Drive Cars
General Motors is reportedly developing several new rear-wheel-drive models based on its updated Alpha 2-2 platform, a similar architecture to the one that once underpinned the Cadillac CT4, CT5, and Chevrolet Camaro.
Key Points
- GM is developing new rear-wheel-drive cars on its updated Alpha 2-2 platform, the same architecture that underpinned the Cadillac CT5 and Chevrolet Camaro.
- Cadillac’s next-generation CT5 will debut on the new platform, with insiders suggesting that it could also spawn a CT5 coupe or revived Chevrolet Camaro.
- The Alpha 2-2’s flexibility—supporting multiple powertrains and all-wheel drive—could even allow GM to revive legacy nameplates like the Malibu or Impala, signaling a renewed commitment to passenger cars amid an SUV-heavy lineup.
It's welcome news to anyone with a pulse and a passing interest in automobiles. The automaker appears set to continue offering at least one, probably two, and potentially as many as three rear-wheel drive performance cars.
The word comes from GM Authority, which spoke with company insiders on the condition of anonymity. The sources say GM is now working on "multiple variants" of a new passenger car, all of which will be based on the Alpha 2-2 platform.
The new Alpha 2-2 is described as an evolution of the lightweight, performance-oriented Alpha chassis GM originally engineered for the sixth-generation Camaro. That platform was always praised for its rigidity and balance, capable of supporting everything from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, as well as rear- or all-wheel-drive configurations.
We already know Cadillac has confirmed that the next-generation CT5 will debut on this architecture. However, more models could follow—including a CT5-based coupe inspired by Cadillac’s 2024 Expressive Coupe concept, and potentially even a revived Chevrolet Camaro. My favorite part of this rumor is the speculation that GM could use the chassis to resurrect classic Chevrolet nameplates like Malibu or Impala, though that remains unconfirmed.
Better yet, build a Buick wagon the size of the CT5 and call it the Roadmaster. Sorry, don't mind me and my deep-rooted automotive biases.
Currently, the CT5 and CT4 are produced at GM’s Lansing Grand River plant in Michigan. They were previously joined by the Chevrolet Camaro before production ended in late 2023. GM will invest $1.25 billion to prepare the Lansing plant to continue combustion vehicle assembly on the Alpha 2-2 platform.
GM had previously announced a $1.4 billion plan to retool the plant for EV production, but that plan has obviously been put on ice.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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GM and Ford, Stellantis need to make modestly powerful, simply designed, but ultimatley Reliable as the Japanese have done for years.
Oh and maybe they should stop worrying about how big or how many screen to put in a car and concentrate on how to make an economical and simple powertrain.
Like Toyota does
I don't know anyone who would want a Buick ROADMASTER in its old form or a new one except maybe a 600lb old man or woman. Malibu name has been a turd for decades. The Impala name is the only possible interesting resurrection as would be a Camaro - but GM will surely screw it up. I'm sure Barra will stick her stupid claws in it and make it an EV or PHEV to 'compete' with the awful 'Mustang' Mach E. The ONLY thing noteworthy or exciting coming out of GM the last decade are the blackwings, C8, maybe the Escalade V and it could've been the Hummers had they not been 5 ton EVs that brick more [when charging or in traffic] than a mason on a jobsite. Imagine the sales that would've been of an ICE hummer! GM needs a new CEO yesterday as well as direction.