2001 Cadillac Catera in Plymouth, MI - $0

Originally launched in the fall of 1996 as a 1997 model, the Cadillac Catera sedan led the campaign at GM's flagship luxury marque to compete in the hotly contested near-luxury segment. Built at the Adam Opel assembly plant in Russelsheim, Germany, the Catera shares its platform with the Opel and Vauxhall Omega MV6 sedans.

During the 1999 model year, the nameplate introduced the Catera Sport package, designed to appeal to the sport-oriented set -- buyers with a keen interest in expressive styling as well as the desire for a higher level of handling and control. The 2000 model year brings a freshened appearance inside and out as well as several new safety features and suspension enhancements.

Available only as a four-door sedan, the Catera can be upgraded with a choice of the Luxury or Sport equipment packages. The $995 optional (TW1) Luxury package adds an eight-way front passenger power seat, seat/mirror memory package, three-channel programmable garage door opener and an audible theft deterrent system.

The $2,510 optional (T24) Sport package includes the TW1 Luxury package plus rear spoiler and P235/45HR17 tires in one of three premium exterior colors -- Ebony, Ivory or Platinum.

The rear-drive Catera takes aim squarely at the baby boomers that are now reaching their high disposable income years seeking to bring a new generation of customers to the Cadillac brand. Aside from the three equipment packages, the very well equipped Catera has an option list of just five items.

Powered by a 200 horsepower 3.0L V6 mated to a willing electronically controlled four-speed automatic with overdrive and selectable shift, the Catera is sure, smooth and extremely responsive at any speed.

According to Cadillac, the standard four-wheel disc brakes were originally designed for regular Autobahn use. This braking system is one of the best ever experienced. The Catera stops straight, sure, and very quickly without a fuss.

The bank-vault construction of the vehicle chassis gives the driver a reassuring sense of stability and control while producing one very quiet cabin. Unlike other sports sedans in its class, this four-door yields a very comfortable ride.

The redesigned layout of displays and controls are excellent. Brimming with technology, the Catera has many helpful touches throughout to make driving or riding, a pleasant experience.

By the numbers

Engine performance numbers for the 3.0L DOHC V6 are 200 hp at 6,000 rpm and 192 lb/ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. EPA fuel economy ratings are 18 city/24 highway using premium unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easily accessible and very clearly marked.

Standard safety/security features for the Catera Sport include: dual front airbags, front seat side airbags, full range traction control, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, fog lamps, audible theft deterrent system, remote keyless entry, full size spare tire, transponder key theft deterrent system, retained accessory power, automatic programmable door locks with central unlocking and anti-lockout feature, Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, OnStar Communications System with one year Premium Service and daytime running lamps.

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price for the Cadillac Catera Sport starts at $33,520. Destination charge adds $640. The Cadillac Catera is sold and serviced by a select network of 775 Cadillac dealers. Be sure to check with your local Cadillac dealer for availability. There are no rebates on this model.

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