The sedan and wagon rest on the same type of suspension. The latter uses different settings, however, as its cabin was designed to accommodate more luggage. But towing capacity of both cars is the same (454 kg).

Both of the sedan’s direct injection V6 engines are available.

Two engines – maybe three?
The CTS wagon can be powered by one of the two direct injection V6 engines, 3.0 and 3.6 litres, offered on the sedan. Each is coupled with an automatic six-speed transmission with sequential mode.

The supercharged, 556-hp V8 powering the CTS-V isn’t on this model’s list – at least for now. Which is what the approving smile on the Cadillac communications director’s face led me to believe when I asked him if we’d ever see a V-Series wagon.

First drive
On a short jaunt through the Catskills, between White Plains and Monticello in southern New York State, I discovered quite an agreeable cruiser. One that would be suitable for two adults and two kids, as it’s spacious up front but less so in back, where head- and legroom is terribly scant.

The 3.6-litre V6 of my tester was very satisfying in terms of acceleration and throttle response. In addition, the rather stiff suspension reminded me of a European concept car. With its very precise power steering and shorter turning radius, the car will be easy to manoeuvre and park in narrow spots.

Naturally, the heavily inclined rear roof section, very wide rear pillars and diminutive rear window don’t offer ideal visibility when parking, hence the reverse camera projecting an image on the navigation system screen.

The power tailgate quickly reveals a large, flat-floored cargo area where the sill is just a few centimetres above the bumper. However, no protective material covers the top of the bumper. It’ll get scratched up pretty quick.

The large, vertical, fibre optic and LED taillights are a distinctive styling cue.