I don't see how the Saab 9-3 may be considered "mediocre" when it is technically the best of the Epsilons, possibly the BLS/Opel Vectra excepted.
Other than the STS as a whole, and the DTS's interior, I consider this small BLS to be my favourite Cadillac even if its interior isn't radically unique.
It's smaller, still has the look, has great (right?) quality on a proven architecture (even though that architecture debuted, what...2002 on the Vectra?).
If the BLS were rear-drive and it was known as BTS, I would like it even better.
It's taken too long for GM to utilize this platform across the range. Saturn is just now getting the Aura. I'm amazed that GM didn't produce an Epsilon Buick...yet. It's been almost five years since Epsilon debuted. I know it's solid and decent, it's just that the time frame is too expansive. When Epsilon-2 debuts, the Aura will only have been around for 2-3 years. Will Epsilon continue for each brand for as long as it underpinned other models, or will GM place Epsilon-2 under all of the cars at once?
Cars like the Opel/Vauxhall Vectra, SAAB 9-3, Chevrolet Malibu, Cadillac BLS, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura. Quite an empire to lord over...