If every American car could break the stereotypes of the US auto industry as consistently as the Cadillac CTS has, there'd be no reason for investors to fret over quarterly statements.

First, a new sedan with a direct-injection V-6, then a M5-beating V model, and in spring next year, this new wagon (and a coupe). The CTS has received raves not because GM lets journalists shred tires in plumes of white smoke, but because this is a car that can make those smoke clouds and deliver superb handling, comfort, and quality on par with Europe.

Unfortunately, the CTS won't be able to change American perceptions of station wagons, which make up an annual market of 30,000, a 12 percent slice of the sales in Europe, according to Car and Driver.