Cadillac Seville (K-body). 1986–91 (prod. 143,112 sold). 4-door sedan. F/F, 4087, 4467, 4893 cm³ (V8 OHV). Seville loses the bustle and gets downsized, losing six inches in wheelbase and 16 inches in overall length. Distinctive styling in a world going aero-smooth, with formal roofline, exposed wheels and short cabin, though too many GM cars had a formal roof at this point, and sales plummeted compared with the 1985s. Things picked up with the 1988s and the introduction of the Touring Sedan, and 1990 saw the third generation’s best sales’ year. Independent rear suspension, and quiet cabin. Steering not very communicative, especially compared with imported sport sedans, which US luxury buyers were flocking to, and the considerably cheaper Acura Legend. Engines outclassed by the competition, though final year saw the 4·9-litre V8 with 200 hp, the best of the four units offered in the run. Poor rear legroom.

Manufacturing location: Hamtramck, Michigan, USA

Marque: Cadillac | Model: Cadillac Seville | Predecessor: Cadillac Seville (1980–5) | Successor: Cadillac Seville (1992–7)

q.v. Cadillac Eldorado (1986–91)