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The CTS is not what you expect a Cadillac to be. That’s obvious from the angular styling which looks as if it were hewn from an aluminum ingot. It’s even more obvious after you drive it half a block. Taut and responsive, the European-styled, enthusiast-oriented CTS is a harbinger of Caddys to come. The next-generation STS will expand on this theme when it comes out next year.

The CTS is different because it’s important for Cadillac to attract younger customers, ones who might otherwise choose a BMW, Lexus or Audi. Its base price of $29,350 makes it even more appealing. Popularly equipped models will be about $35,000, and the fully loaded test car was $39,290.

CTS stands for C-series Touring Sedan and it replaces the Catera. It rides on General Motors’ all-new rear-wheel-drive Sigma chassis platform that will be the basis for other GM models. It has a 113.4-inch wheelbase and a 220-horsepower 3.2-liter V-6.

Looks aside, the proof of a sports sedan is how it handles the road. The test car, with the optional Luxury Sport package and 17-inch wheels, was agile and eager when it came to twisty roads or freeway exit ramps. Folks who expect a pillow-soft ride will be disappointed because the Sport suspension is just shy of being too stiff when the pavement gets bumpy. Rear-wheel-drive results in balanced handling, which is why many companies are switching back to it. A dual-wishbone suspension is used up front, while the rear is a five-link design with rubber mounts to isolate the body from road noise. Aluminum is used on various pieces, including the rear differential, to save weight. Cadillac engineers used the famed Nurburgring track in Germany to develop the car’s suspension, and it shows.

The all-new 3.2-liter V-6 is an enlarged version of the engine from the Catera. Designed with its cylinder banks somewhat closer together so that it can be used in both front- and rear-wheel-drive configurations, this narrow-angle V-6 has been tuned to improve power, torque and emissions. Fuel economy is estimated to be 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway.

Power is adequate, but a tad more zip would be even better. The five-speed automatic transmission performs best in Sport mode. Driving enthusiasts can select a Getrag five-speed manual transmission.

Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock are standard. The StabiliTrak vehicle stability system is part of the Luxury Sport package, and it is a worthwhile option because it combines anti-lock braking and traction control to squelch unwanted skids.

Cadillac’s art and science design theme is obvious inside as well. The center section of the instrument panel resembles a personal computer. A very handy Òmouse buttonÓ on the steering wheel controls the audio system. The instrument panel is a nice combination of surface textures that mimic appliances. Wood is used on surfaces that are touched, such as the steering wheel, shift knob and door pulls. Leather seats are comfortab le and have a wide range of adjustment. Legroom in the back seat is surprisingly tight considering the carÕs longish 113.4-inch wheelbase.

Safety items include front and side airbags as well as front-to-rear curtain airbags. Lower anchor and top tether mounts for child safety seats are built into the rear seat.

If the CTS is the beginning of Cadillac’s product revolution, I can’t wait for round two.

Price
The base price of the test car was $29,350. The Luxury Sport package ($3,500) adds an eight-way adjustable passenger seat, 17-inch wheels, sport suspension, wood trim, StabiliTrak, load-leveling rear suspension, a compass and a built-in Talknote digital recorder. The Bose stereo, navigation system, sunroof, high-intensity headlights and split-folding rear seats brought the sticker price to $39,290.

Warranty
The standard warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles.

Point: Crisp styling, European handling and an aggressively styled interior set the CTS apart from other Cadillacs. Powered by a 220-horsepower V-6, it is available with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The interior looks vibrant with geometric shapes and a nice combination of textures.

Counterpoint: Performance-oriented drivers might wish for more power or a small V-8, rear-seat legroom is somewhat snug and traditional Cadillac buyers may think the Sport suspension is too firm.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Engine: 3.2-liter, 220-hp V-6
Transmission: automatic Rear-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 113.4 inches
Curb weight: 3,568 lbs.
Base price: $29,350
As-driven: $39,290
Mpg rating: 18 city, 26 hwy
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