Body type |
Sedan |
Number of doors |
4 |
Number of seats |
5 |
Engine position |
Front |
Driven wheels |
Front |
Length |
4 680 mm |
Width |
1 752 mm |
Height |
1 471
mm |
Wheelbase |
2 675
mm |
Ground clearance |
120
mm |
Weight (normal) |
? |
Weight (max) |
? |
Boot space (min) |
425 l |
Boot space (max) |
425 l |
Fuel capacity |
58 l |
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The Cadillac BLS is produced
since 2006. It is available as a sedan or a station wagon.
There is a choice of four
turbocharged engines, ranging form 1.9-liter diesel to 2.8-liter V6
unit. The entry-level 1.9-liter diesel is a pick of the bunch. It is
smooth and flexible. Furthermore it has got more than enough
acceleration. On the other hand the powerful V6 is faster, but it
comes at a cost. On the downside there are hesitant automatic
gearboxes.
Despite that the Cadillac
is an American brand, it shares it is based on the European chassis,
which is already used on Saab cars, but it was not the most
successful choice, as the BLS is firm over coarse roads and has
excessive body roll going through the corners. Things get better on
the motorway, but lifeless steering and stodgy handling means that
the BLS is better kept on straight roads.
The diesel engine is
smooth and inaudible, while the powerful V6 becomes vocal when
pushed hard. Some wind rustles can be heard at the motorway pace,
while the road noise is well contained, making the Cadillac BLS a
decent cruiser. The most disappointing is a crashy suspension, that
can be heard and felt driving over coarse surfaces.
The BLS comes well
equipped and is competitively priced comparing with it's German
rivals. Fuel consumption is reasonable, while the 1.9-liter diesel
is very economical, however resale values might be below average.
It's engines are already proven and should not throw any serious and
unpleasant surprises.
Interior of the BLS
appears to be well built. Materials are soft to touch and nice to
look at. The dash layout is clear and easy to read. Unfortunately
there are still some minor disappointments, including some flimsy
and imprecise switches.
Behind the wheel there is
little to criticize. Seats are comfortable and supportive, while
giving a good range of adjustments. Steering wheel also has both way
adjustments, so drivers of all shapes and sizes should find
themselves comfortable.
Like most luxury cars the
Cadillac BLS offers plenty of space for the rear passengers.
Unfortunately the rear accommodation is not exactly generous. Three
adults can fit across the rear bench, but shoulder space is going to
be tight. A large boot will take all the family's luggage with ease.
The Cadillac BLS comes
with twin front, side and curtain airbags as standard. Traction
control and EBD are also standard even on the entry-level models.
Top of the range trims are fitted with Cadillac's electronic
stability system. Furthermore this car appears to be a hard nut for
thieves and it is not as easy to drive away.
Entry-level models are
fitted with trip computer, air conditioning, front and rear electric
windows, alloy wheels and a CD player. Luxury trim adds climate
control, electrically adjustable driver's seat and larger alloys.
The most expensive Sport Luxury trim comes with a sports suspension,
heated leather seats and xenon headlamps.
Production of the
Cadillac BLS still continues.
Advantages: The
Cadillac BLS is well prices, while being well equipped.
Very refined and punchy diesel engine.
Disadvantages:
Firm ride, lifeless
steering and stodgy handling means that the BLS is not entertaining
to drive.
Verdict: Stands out from the
crowd, but is totally uninspiring to drive.
Also consider:
Alfa Romeo 159,
Audi A4.
Video of the Cadillac BLS
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