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The first sight of the production-ready BLS: this compact made-for-Europe Caddy is to go on sale from spring 2006. A sister model to the Saab 9-3, and to be built alongside that model at the Saab factory in Trollhatten, Sweden, the BLS is to come with the same range of engines: 175bhp, 210bhp and 255bhp turbocharged petrols, the first two 2.0-litre Saab units and the latter the Holden 2.8 V6, plus the GM-Fiat 1.9 turbodiesel, here tuned for 150bhp. It's very much an international affair rather than a purebred Yank tank.
The BLS was launched alongside high-powered V-spec versions of Cadillac's STS saloon and XLR roadster. The STS-V delivers 476bhp and the XLR-V 448bhp; they both feature supercharged versions of the 4.4-litre Northstar V8, and Cadillac is keen to emphasise that they have undergone substantial development and testing work at Germany's Nurburgring circuit, where they have been honed with an eye to meeting the demands of European drivers and road conditions.
The XLR-V can accelerate 0-60mph in less than five seconds, and has larger brakes, anti-roll bars, wheels and tyres than the standard XLR, plus a modified version of the Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension. It features a V-specific wire mesh grille, 19-inch wheels and interior ebony/aluminium trim detailing. The STS-V has 18-inch wheels up front and 19-inchers behind, uprated brakes, stiffer anti-roll bars and springs, a faster steering ratio and tuned chassis, plus a leather-trimmed instrument panel and olivewood and aluminium trim detailing. Sales of both models will begin in early 2006; prices will be announced nearer to the on-sale date. Right-hand drive availability of these models has not yet been confirmed, though Cadillac's Park Lane dealership will no doubt be able to obtain LHD versions on request.