Well-conceived spring and shock absorber rates add to this favorable impression. The suspension was engineered for precise handling, especially on roads with uneven traction. Under hard braking, the Catera is stable, even in tricky braking-and-turning combinations.

The Catera offers good traction over all surfaces. A revised Bosch traction control system comes standard. To reduce wheelspin, the system reduces power and applies braking force to either of the rear wheels. If one wheel starts to slip, the system gently applies the brake to that wheel, transferring drive torque to the wheel that has more traction. By adjusting drive torque accordingly, each rear tire can use the maximum available traction. The engine output control continues to adjust engine power to allow the system to function at all road speeds.

The suspension is responsive and easy to control, which makes the Catera fun to drive. Yet there's also good suspension compliance to ensure a smooth ride. Catera's balance between ride and handling is superb, regardless of pavement condition. This car excels at long-distance comfort, regardless of how many people and how much luggage is carried. Part of this excellent balance comes from the Catera's automatic leveling control system, which keeps the car on an even keel at all times.

Catera's four-wheel antilock disc brakes work well, delivering short, undramatic stops in all normal driving situations. Cadillac points out that the Catera's disc brakes were originally engineered for daily use on the German Autobahn where speeds regularly exceed 140 mph. The antilock brakes (ABS) help the driver retain steering control during braking.

Performance is another strength. Smooth and quiet, but with a nice assertive rasp when revved up, the Catera's 200-horsepower engine delivers more urge than the car's horsepower-to-weight ratio would suggest. Fuel economy is reasonable as well, so long as the driver doesn't succumb to the urge to press the engine hard too often.

A number of engine refinements were made for 1999 designed to reduce emissions, including a new engine management computer, electronic throttle control, a new fuel tank and evaporative emissions system. As a result, the Catera is the first Cadillac to meet the government's stringent LEV (Low Emission Vehicle) standards.

Catera's 4-speed automatic transmission shifts easily and unobtrusively. The driver can select three modes of operation: a normal mode for everyday driving; a sport mode that selects more aggressive shift points and provides increased engine braking; and a winter mode that provides third-gear starts for slippery conditions.

In town or on the open highway, the Catera feels secure and quiet. Wind and engine noise are virtually inaudible. The only sound generated by any of the Cateras we've driven during the past three years came from tire treads, and those were muted.