We say The BLS is a decent alternative to market leaders in the compact exec sector. You’d be a brave man to take one over a German saloon though.Performance Smooth but slightly underpowered 1.9-litre diesel engines in two guises and range of petrols from 2.0- to 2.8-litre V6 turbo are available with the BLS. The latter is a powerful 255bhp married to a six-speed automatic gearbox that churns out power at a refined growl.Emissions The lowest-powered diesel model returns 46mpg combined and emits an acceptable 164g/km of CO2 for decent running costs. Any of the BLS petrols will be dirty and expensive though.Driving Cadillac’s BLS doesn't corner too well, provides sluggish feedback and doesn't cope too well over potholes. Another American car not set up to deal with crap British roads.Feel The Cadillac BLS is fairly quiet inside with the engines behaving themselves, though the suspension can be heard from time to time as the car crashes over another hole. Caddy’s compact exec makes for a comfortable motorway cruiser though.Space Good room upfront in the BLS but headroom limited in the back by sloping roof. Decent boot space but may struggle with that evergreen measurement of the roomy boot: the twin sets of golf clubs.Equipment The BLS has decent specs at all levels. Trip computer and cruise control at basic level. Rain detecting wipers, climate control at Luxury level. Sports suspension, xenon headlights, electrically-adjustable leather seats at Sport Luxury level.Price Competitive pricing with the BLS but not noticeably cheaper than BMW, Audi or Jaguar rivals. The Cadillac will probably depreciate more quickly than rivals too. Decent fuel and company car tax rates from entry-level models.Quality The BLS has luxurious inner trim and engines sourced from General Motors, so likely to be good quality.Safety Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, traction control and four airbags as standard. Stability control on higher spec only.Pros Well-equipped and refined.Cons Handling isn't great.Alternatives BMW 3-Series Saloon, Jaguar X-Type, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class
