Cadillac’s new BLS will make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

In a Cadillac first, the BLS will be available with a turbodiesel variant. The 1.9L four-cylinder unit, with common-rail direct injection technology and 150bhp, is fitted with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter and complies with Euro IV emissions standards.

The range of petrol engines – all turbocharged – includes two 2.0-litre four-cylinder versions (175/210bhp) and a high-tech 2.8-litre six-cylinder unit at 255bhp with twin-scroll turbocharger and variable phasing of the intake camshafts. The BLS offers five or six-speed manual transmissions and five or six-speed automatic transmissions, depending on engine type.

The European start of sales for both left hand and right hand drive vehicles is planned for spring 2006.