First drive: Cadillac BLS Wagon
06 November 2007
- We drive Cadillac's first estate
- Offered with two diesel engines
- Starts from around £21,000
More Information
The number 450 can be a cause for celebration when it's England's latest cricket score (assuming you're English) or the pounds you've shaved off your tax bill.
Cadillac, though, is far from happy at selling just 450 cars in the UK this year.
The American premium brand is determined to make a bigger impact on this side of the pond, and it has high hopes for the BLS Wagon - its first ever estate.
Lifestyle, not lugger
Like the rival BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes C-Class Estate, the BLS is more of a lifestyle accessory than a workhorse.
However, its modest 418-litre boot is well shaped, there's no load lip to lift heavy items over and the rear seats are easy to fold.
Cadillac is offering the BLS with a new 178bhp 1.9-litre diesel engine, and this is smooth and strong.
Company car drivers will probably prefer the cheaper 148bhp diesel, though, because it still offers good in-gear flexibility and sits four tax bands lower.
On the road
Unfortunately, the BLS disappoints in other areas. It shares many of its mechanical parts with Saab's distinctly average 9-3 and, although the Cadillac has bespoke suspension settings, these do it few favours.
The low-speed ride is firm and potholes send shudders into the cabin. Things improve at motorway pace, but the BLS isn't much fun on twisty routes because there's a lot of body roll and the steering is numb.
Cabin quality isn't up to the standard's set by German rivals, either, but you do get comfortable seats and lots of equipment for your money.
Buying a BLS
Expect the BLS Wagon to carry a premium of around £1000 over the equivalent saloon, so it'll cost around the £21,000 mark.
You can get your hands on the first ones in January.
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