Cadillac to launch second saloon

Cadillac will add a second saloon car to its range early in 2006 with the BLS, designed to rival compact executives such as the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class.

Latest News

• MG gives local workers 15% discount
• Citroen launches recall website
• New Audi A3 vs Merc A-Class, Volvo V40
• Renault Alpine concept car leaked

Cadillac will add a second saloon car to its range early in 2006 with the BLS, designed to rival compact executives such as the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class.

At 4.7m long, it is a little shorter than the existing CTS, which is now available through the marque’s sole London dealership for between £24,850 and £28,950.

Based on the Saab 9-3, the BLS will be cheaper and probably cost from around £21,000. It has been specifically designed for Europe and will not be sold in the US.

A 148bhp diesel engine will be offered from launch as well as 2.0-litre and 2.8-litre petrol engines. Like the CTS, the BLS will be available in right-hand drive.

UK buyers will also be able to order the larger STS saloon, SRX off-roader and XLR roadster this year, but will have to put up with left-hand drive. A right-hand-drive version of the SRX is expected in 2006, however.

Cadillac plans to treble the number of UK dealerships by the end of 2005 with new outlets in Manchester and Edinburgh. It hopes to have a total of 18 dealerships by 2007.