SAAB and Cadillac have backed away from plans to pursue a joint 'premium brand' approach in Europe.

The initiative was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and would have seen General Motors establish joint distribution and dealer networks for both brands.

But a review of GM's sales, marketing and distribution strategy has prompted the back-track, and will delay the arrival of new Cadillac models in the UK by several months.

Instead, GM will focus on strengthening its existing North American Vehicles network.