Driving Impressions
reviewed by
Catera's biggest asset in its quest to charm Eurocentric drivers doesn't
become apparent right away. It takes some miles to realize that the Catera
is alone among current U.S. market GM sedans in having rear-wheel drive.
As such, it offers a driving experience more akin to that of its major
German rivals than to Lexus and Infiniti front-drivers. Traction is good
over all but very slick surfaces--a standard Traction Control system helps--and
the Catera is more fun to hustle down a winding road than any other Cadillac.
Which, of course, is the basic idea--luring younger buyers who would otherwise
be shopping at an import store.
Good steering and firm damping are fun for the driver, but are in this
case complemented by enough suspension compliance to ensure a smooth ride.
Subjectively, the Catera's ride-handling balance is excellent, regardless
of pavement condition. And its autobahn breeding shows up in excellent
stability at high speed. Some body roll is evident during fast cornering,
but that's not the kind of use most Cateras will get.
Far more important to this class is long-distance comfort; Catera scores
high marks in this department. And does so regardless of how many people
and how much luggage it carries, due in part to standard automatic load-level
control that keeps it on an even keel at all times. Catera's four-wheel
disc brakes with standard ABS are simply outstanding, delivering short,
undramatic stops in all driving situations.
For a car that will tip the scales at two tons with driver and passenger
aboard, a 200-hp dohc 24-valve V6 can only be considered adequate. Smooth
and quiet--but with an assertive rasp when revved up--the Catera engine
is happiest when it is used in the European manner to deliver effortless
cruising. Its companion four-speed automatic transmission--the only transmission
offered--shifts easily and unobtrusively, like all GM automatics.
In town or on the open highway, Catera is in its element. The only notable
sounds generated by our test car during normal driving came from the tire
treads; wind and engine noises were well-muted.
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