On my recent visit to Kelly Cadillac, the dealership had a CTS-V gassed up and ready for me to test drive. One of the most powerful American sedans ever built, the CTS-V has a supercharged V-8 engine producing a whopping 556 horsepower. I gulped and politely asked if I might test-drive the more sedate, six-cylinder CTS. The thought of driving the CTS-V in heavy afternoon traffic on Highway 153 made me nervous. I was afraid I would sneeze and end up launching the rocket Caddy into Chickamauga Lake.

So saleswoman Bridget Sanders flipped me the smart-key fob to a Crystal Red CTS V6 DI, instead, the volume sales leader in the recently redesigned CTS line. Its 3.6 liter V-6 packs plenty of punch for most drivers.

STYLING: The chiseled lines of the CTS have virtually redefined the Cadillac brand, injecting sex appeal into a GM nameplate that frankly needed to attract younger buyers.

“The CTS is bringing in a much younger, different customer,” Ms. Sanders said. Shod with 18-inch aluminum wheels, my Crystal Red tester cut a handsome profile. From any angle, the CTS exudes athleticism and power.

Inside, the CTS has all the comfort features you’d expect from Cadillac. The cashmere-colored leather seats were tasteful and supporting. Ambient lighting that tracks the lines of the sapele wood trim gives the cabin a pleasant nighttime glow.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS: The six cylinder CTS is well mannered. Steering is taunt, and its road manners are benchmarked to the European luxury brands.

Our CTS tester had the direct injection version of the V-6, which makes 304 hp. There is a 258-horsepower version available, as well.

The CTS has plenty of reserve power for passing. The six-speed transmission downshifts aggressively in sport mode, propelling the car with a burst of speed.

FEATURES: The CTS has one of the most useful navigation systems on the road today. It warns you of traffic delays ahead and plots an alternative course.

The sound system has a built-in hard drive that allows you to record music right off the radio.

BOTTOM LINE: The CTS is a good example of what General Motors can do when it embraces change. Luxury buyers owe it to themselves to at least sample the CTS before defaulting to an import. Those looking for a sub-orbital rocket might want to give the 556 horsepower CTS-V a spin.