BLS spearheads Caddie attack

The BLS's styling is box-like yet modern, with strong vertical lines and clear European-inspired influences.

The front-wheel drive BLS is equipped with three engine options. The turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol unit with direct injection produces 131 kW and peak torque of 265 Nm at 2 500 r/min. Drive is via a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

A 1.9 litre turbodiesel is good for 110 kW and torque of 320 Nm available between 2 000 and 2 750 r/min. Drive to its front wheels is provided by a six-speed manual gearbox.

V6 top-of-the-range

The range-topping BLS is powered by a 2.8 litre V6 petrol unit with outputs of 184 kW and 350 Nm at 5 500 and 2 000 r/min respectively, with an overboost function adding 15 Nm for 10 seconds when necessary.

The top model uses a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with larger brake discs and 17-inch alloys for sharper performance.

Its interior is awash with features including leather seating for all five passengers, a seven-speaker audio system from Bose (with satellite controls), power windows and climate controls.

Suspension is via a McPherson strut and multi-link arrangement with Cadillac claiming the BLS platform has been tuned for superior handling and stability.

Safety features include front, side and curtain airbags, active headrests and three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force-limiters all round.

ABS, EBA and Cadillac's Stabilitrak ESP system with CBC are some of the driver aids available.

Cadillac BLS 1.9 D Manual - TBA
Cadillac BLS 2.0 T Manual - R249 500
Cadillac BLS 2.0 T Automatic - R263 000
Cadillac BLS 2.8V6 Automatic - R362 000