For all the noise that Cadillac has been making, it’s time for them to show off the products, and the Cadillac CT6 is that opening salvo.

Is it enough? Sedans are out in favor of crossovers and Cadillac’s new brand image is just getting off the ground. That puts a lot of pressure on the CT6 to offer more than the German competition.

We’ve had some time in a 2016 Cadillac CT6 Platinum equipped with the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. Here are some initial thoughts.

Definitely a Cadillac
While I was unsure of Cadillac launching a car as important as the CT6 is with a design that’s very clearly an extension of their existing sedans, it is unmistakably a Cadillac – 17 feet of it, at that. Its size does command a grand entrance at the valet stand somewhat reminiscent of old Cadillacs – minus the fins, of course.

Vastness
While the space inside the CT6 is more in line with short-wheelbase versions of the Audi A8, BMW 7-Series and Jaguar XJ, its formal roofline affords the Cadillac an airier feel and what seems like more space. Only the tallest of rear passengers might find legroom more coach than business class.

 CUE the frustration
While Cadillac’s CUE system is certainly improved in the CT6 over the Escalade I drove last year, it’s far from what you’d call good. The touchscreen’s response is better, but the new trackpad is basically a finger coordination exercise for the passenger.

 When a Cadillac is less Cadillac-like
The 3.0-liter engine is swift and the CT6 is fairly athletic, both of which I’d hoped for when going into driving the car. But the firm front seats and a firm ride give off a decidedly German feel, rather than the cosseting ride of a Cadillac I expected. The big sedan from Jaguar and a brief stint in a Lincoln Continental recently showed there are luxury sedans that still do what this Cadillac should.

 Finding its place
It’s $88,000 for this all-in CT6 Platinum, which isn’t really a bargain, but definitely in the league of accomplished cars. It’s not even out of Cadillac’s league, but it’s easy to ponder where the CT6 fits in with its rivals and whether it might fit in better with a different engine and less options.

Photos: Zac Estrada/Carscoops

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