Cadillac BLS Wagon (08 on) - Review

With a generally good ride and lots of interior space the BLS is a comfortable car and good over long distances. It's dimensions are the same as the Saab 9-3 which means good room for front passengers, but a slightly more cramped space for those in the back, with limited legroom for taller passengers. The front seats offer plenty of adjustment (electrically on Luxury and Sport Luxury models) and noise levels are low too.

Load carrying isn't always a huge priority in a smaller premium estate car, and the BLS offers a fairly average 419 litres up to window height with the rear seats in place - with 1285 litres (including 12 litres' storage under the boot floor) in total. A BMW 3-Series Touring or a Honda Accord Touring would have greater carrying capacity, but the Cadillac is adequate and should be useful enough for most owners, however the rear seats don't quite fold flat.

The BLS Wagon, despite being a Cadillac, is closely based on the Saab 9-3 Sportwagon. There are a few changes inside so although the instrument binnacle is similar to that found in the Saab, the Cadillac's centre console is different - the square analogue clock set in the top is typical of modern Cadillacs and the wood trim, fitted on some models, fits in with perception of a luxury cars. Unfortunately the layout is drab and doesn't feel particularly sophisticated or tactile. Quality is very good (again thanks to the Saab involvement) and finding a comfortable driving position is easy thanks to outstandingly supportive seats with plenty of adjustment and a multi-position steering wheel.