Cadillac is fighting to get back in!

GM’s luxury line division is fighting to get back in the ring with the Germans and Japanese that have been dominating the battlefield. With minor changes to the exterior and better performance, Cadillac is presenting the 2012 line with the CTS Sedan, CTS Coupe, CTS Wagon, the SRX Crossover and the giant Escalade.

CTS Sedan

I had the opportunity to get up-close and personal with the new vehicle line and was impressed with the quality of the finishing and the availability of comfort items.

CTS Wagon

The Cadillac Escalade is truly a huge vehicle with comfortable “barcolaunger” seats that make you feel right at home. Meanwhile, the CTS tries to imitate the Germans with a hard seat and an even harder suspension. It handles well enough, but there could be a better balance between sportiness and comfort.

CTS Sedan

The best new Cadillac from this selection seems to be the SRX. It has a handsome design combined with a very well finished interior, with nice trims and stitches. The seats are very comfortable and all the commands are quite at hand. The visibility, however, is a problem, including the front, because of the vehicle’s large A columns.

SRX lavish interior

Engine wise, the CTS has an improved 3.6 V6 that generates 304hp; more than enough for the everyday commute. The SRX uses the same engine. Unfortunately their transmission only has 6 gears, which limits the fuel consumption, especially on the freeway.

SRX: Decent cargo space

Comparing to their renowned Germans, the Cadillacs lack the perfection and reaction, if compared to BMW and Mercedes. These vehicles have better reaction, felt strongly on the powerful pedals that brake or accelerates before you are even conscious of touching them. Handling is better and the comfort is there. Cadillac is rallying on an extended four-year or 50,000 miles bumber-to-bumber warranty - that claims to include repairs + parts and labors - and a better price tag: the CTS starts at $ 38,000, the SRX at $ 40,000 and $ 64,000 for the Escalade.

CTS: Nice attention to finishings