All-new Cadillac CTS combines great design ideas and engineering endeavors to achieve nearly great results. The ride is taut with the sport package suspension. But for a luxury sedan the expectation is a bit higher – especially with how the suspension reacts when moving over potholes. Although the car can accommodate three passengers in the rear seat, the ‘puffy’ backside feel of the center spot makes the ride somewhat uncomfortable on longer trips. On the upside, the CTS has some wonderful detail aspects, including a bubble-ridged turn dial on the steering wheel spoke as a secondary means of turning up/turning down the audio volume as well as grab handles that subtly incorporate a clothes hangar.

Powering the CTS is a hearty 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces maximum 220 horsepower and 220 pounds-feet torque. The car marks GM’s first usage of ultra high-strength steel, and the first time that steel gets structure-applied. Standard fare on the CTS includes a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, fog lamps, cruise control, driver information center, and 8-way power driver’s seat. A $3,500 luxury sport package includes 17-inch alloy wheels, load-leveling rear suspension, Homelink garage door opener, talknote recorder, and high-performance brake lining. Per gallon mile estimates with automatic transmission are 18 city/26 highway. Cadillac CTS conveys overt luxury without breaking the $30,000 mark (MSRP is $29,350).