2005-2008 Cadillac STS: Road Test

Base V6 and V8 models furnish brisk takeoffs, with the V8 showing stronger highway-speed passing response. Cadillac estimates 7.0 sec 0-60 mph for the V6, 5.9 for the base V8, and 4.8 for the muscular STS-V. Rear-drive V6 models averaged 14.7-16.2 mpg depending on driving conditions. AWD V6 test car averaged 17.7. Test rear-drive V8s averaged 15.2-17.5. We have not had an opportunity to measure with the STS-V. Models equipped with the base suspension and 17-inch tires offered the best blend of ride comfort and composure. The STS-V is nearly as composed as these versions. Models equipped with the performance handling package trigger some jitter on rough roads. STS-V is the best-handling model in the lineup, with moves nearly as sharp as its top German rivals. Other versions are less athletic, but still are composed overall. Some testers complain of overassisted steering and numb on-center feel. The cabin is generally serene. Engines sound refined during acceleration, with wind and road noise well-suppressed. While assembly is generally good, materials quality is not up to European or Japanese rivals. The available navigation system absorbs, and therefore complicates, audio adjustments. While the front seats offer good head and leg room, a wide center console and high windowsills make some testers feel "hemmed-in." A standard power tilt/telescope steering wheel is a driver-comfort plus. Though larger than Cadillac's CTS, the rear seat is short on leg room overall and head room with the available sunroof. Cargo capacity is nothing special in STS. A small opening limits the ability to load larger items, and in-cabin storage is merely average.

Value for the Money
This Cadillac impresses dynamically, and the availability of all-wheel drive and a bona fide high-performance STS-V edition are assets. AWD is a pricey proposition on V8 models, however, so kudos to Cadillac for making it a stand-alone option on V6s. Inside, STS disappoints with subpar rear-seat space and materials that are not in step with class pacesetters. On any model, extra-cost items can add quickly to the price, making an intelligently optioned V6 version the best value in this line.