Press Release
Cadillac BLS: Crisp handling
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Engines: Three gasoline and one turbo-charged diesel – a Cadillac first – ranging from 150 to 255 hp (110 to 188 kW)
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Transmissions: Five and six speed manual and automatic transmissions
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Chassis: Independent suspension and stability program
The BLS is the first Cadillac in the luxury mid segment, and, like the other models in the Cadillac lineup, has been tailored specifically to the requirements of European drivers. As a result, this front-wheel drive car emphasizes vehicle dynamics and driving enjoyment, with high-torque turbo engines, modern transmissions and a chassis tuned for agility.
Engines and transmissions
The Cadillac BLS is available with a choice of three gasoline engines and a common-rail diesel, all with turbo-charging and four-valve technology. This marks the first time a Cadillac offers a direct-injected, turbocharged diesel engine. Engine output ranges from 150 to 255 hp (110 to 188 kW), delivering dynamic Cadillac performance. The BLS offers five- or six-speed manual transmissions and five- or six-speed automatic transmissions, depending on engine type.
The gasoline engines
The two 2.0L four-cylinder turbo engines develop 175 and 210 hp (129 and 154 kW) respectively, and share a basic design and an excellent output characteristic: The maximum torque of 265 or 300 Nm respectively is available at just 2500 rpm, which means high pulling power at low and medium speeds.
The all-aluminum engines are square (bore/stroke: 86 millimeters) and have twin chain-driven overhead camshafts. Balancing shafts and a dual-mass flywheel ensure refinement in noise and vibrations. The turbocharger is positioned immediately behind the transverse engine, thereby guaranteeing that the front catalytic converter warms up quickly. This reduces fuel consumption and cold-start emissions.
The new 2.8L V-6 aluminum engine has a twin-scroll turbocharger and output of 255 hp (188 kW). This state-of-the-art powerplant, part of a new generation of engines used globally by GM, offers plenty of power in all driving conditions. The intercooled turbocharger, located centrally above the transmission, has an integral charge pressure control valve.
The turbine wheel is made of high-quality special alloy steel. Separate channels – one per cylinder bank – divide the exhaust impulses, and impact positively on the exhaust flow and on energy losses and the turbocharger’s effectiveness.
The continuously variable, electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated phasing of the intake camshafts ensures rapid response and plenty of torque even at lower speeds. They can be rotated with respect to the crankshaft across a range of 50 degrees. This optimally aligns the valve timing and the gas exchange to the engine load and speed. The intake and outlet camshafts are made of high-strength aluminum, which means they are lightweight, heat-resistant and have a long service life.
The diesel
The new BLS is the first Cadillac with a direct-injected turbocharged diesel engine. The 1.9L, 150 hp (110 kW) assembly unites a markedly dynamic driving performance and low consumption values. The BLS requires an average of only 6,1 liters of diesel per 100 km over the MVEG cycle, which, in combination with the 58 liter tank, ensures an impressive range of 950 kilometers.
The engine features four-valve technology, turbo-charging with variable turbine geometry and charge-air cooling, as well as variable multi-point direct injection. Fuel is supplied to the cylinders via a latest-generation common-rail system.
The BLS comes with a standard maintenance-free diesel particulate filter system. This intelligent solution requires no additives. The purification process is designed to reduce hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) with an upstream primary catalytic converter and an underfloor catalytic converter.
The chassis
With a wheelbase of 2,675 millimeters and a wide track width of 1524/1506 millimeters (front/rear), the BLS provides the right geometric conditions for balanced handling. The chassis, which has a McPherson strut in front and a four-link rear axle, is designed for powerful engines and high performance. The chassis tuning and rack-and-pinion steering ensures dynamic handling without compromising comfort.
A Sport package is standard on the Sport Luxury edition and includes a firmer sports suspension with 18-inch wheels. The entry-level version of the BLS is equipped with 16-inch aluminum wheels, while larger wheels with the dimensions 7.0Jx17 and 7.5Jx17 are also available depending on the equipment level and engine type.
The Cadillac BLS’s sophisticated braking system features standard ventilated disc brakes front and rear. The discs measure 285 millimeters at the front, and have a diameter of 278 millimeters at the rear for the entry-level model (up-level 2.8 V-6: 314/292 millimeters front /rear). In addition to four-channel ABS, Traction Control System (TCS) and electronic brake assist, the Cadillac is also fitted with Cornering Brake Control (CBC). When the brakes are applied on a bend, CBC regulates the brake pressure at each wheel individually, increasing cornering stability.
The StabiliTrak electronic stability system is available. In critical driving situations, the system assists the driver in helping the chassis follow the direction of steering ascertained by a steering angle sensor. Further monitoring input is provided by yaw rate and ABS speed sensors as well as the engine management system. In the case of deviation from the intended path, automatic brake application at the individual wheels pulls the car back in line.
Besides enhancing driving pleasure and safety, the Cadillac engineers also focused on effective noise and vibration isolation. Outside noises, as well as vibration and harshness are kept as far away from the passengers as possible. This was achieved via a series of measures implemented in the diesel and gasoline models alike. For instance, the rear axle and the chassis are decoupled from one another with the aid of tuned rubber bushings, and the wheelhouses, roof and trunk are specially sound-insulated. Also, a tuned tire for NVH is standard for up-level models.
