2006 Cadillac STS: Road Test
Archived Review
2006 Cadillac STS ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $41,020 -$74,270
- Invoice: $38,354 -$67,957
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Cadillac STS
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2006 Cadillac STS includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Cadillac STS from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Cadillac STS, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Cadillac STS help you decide if a 2006 Cadillac STS is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Both V6 and base V8 deliver brisk takeoffs, good midrange power. Base V8 doesn't seem vastly stronger than V6, though shows quicker highway-speed passing response. AWD makes little difference with either engine. Cadillac quotes V6 at 7.0 sec 0-60 mph, base V8 at 5.9. It claims 4.8 sec for STS-V, a car felt that potent on preview test drives. All models benefit from smooth, alert transmissions.
FUEL ECONOMY
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
Test rear-drive V6 STSs averaged 14.7 mpg in mostly city driving, 16.2 in mostly highway use. Rear-drive V8s averaged 15.2-17.5 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Test AWD V6 averaged 17.7 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. No opportunity yet to measure with STS-V. V6 uses regular-grade fuel. Cadillac recommends premium grade for base V8, requires it for STS-V.
RIDE QUALITY
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 6.7 |
Nice blend of absorbency and firm composure with base suspension and 17-inch tires, but Performance Handling Package option triggers mild jitter on coarse or rippled surfaces, even with available Magnetic Ride Control on softest Touring mode. Surprisingly supple STS-V mimics comfortable base-model ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7.1 |
STS-V nearly a match for sportiest Audi and BMW sedans on twisty roads. Other rear-drive models less athletic, but corner with poise, modest body lean. Optional AWD a boon for snow-belt dwellers. Steering, except on STS-V, overassisted, but informative enough. Optional 18-inch wheels quicken steering response at low speeds, but exaggerate numb on-center feel. Short, straight simulated panic stops.
QUIETNESS
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 6.8 |
All engines accelerate with a muted, refined growl, a bit louder in STS-V. Wind rush impressively low. Cabins very well-isolated overall, though slightly more coarse-surface road noise with 18-inch tires and in STS-V.
CONTROLS
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
STS has relatively fewer buttons than other premium cars--a plus. All controls easy to reach, though some markings puzzle. Available navigation system absorbs many audio functions, complicates their use. Quality of interior materials falls just short of import-brand standards.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Good head and leg room, but some testers feel hemmed-in by wide center console, high windowsills. Standard power tilt/telescope steering wheel helps dial in comfortable driving stance. Seats' generous side bolsters furnish fine support through turns. View to corners hindered by wide roof pillars.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Head room limited for taller riders; intrusion from sunroof housing further reduces clearance. With front seats more than halfway back, leg room is cramped and toe space tight. Seat fairly well-contoured, though longer cushions would enhance comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
Trunk space unexceptional for exterior size. Lid hinges don't intrude and liftover is low, but small opening limits size of items that can be loaded. Small rear armrest pass-through from trunk. Average interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3 | 5 | 5.9 |
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.
Total Score
| V6 | V6 w/AWD | V8 w/18-in. whls. | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | 62 | 58 | 62 | 61.4 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
