2006 Cadillac STS V-8 Luxury Sports Sedan

Susan Frissell

Much like its V-6 sister, the new STS V-8 shares just about everything except an engine. Most often GM's V-6 engines produce sufficient power so the need for the Northstar V-8 isn't a must for us. However, as GM knows-and the market has proven-there are those drivers out there that must have that V-8 power.

Driving the STS is enjoyable, smooth, quiet and capable. Seating is comfortable and accommodating for all sizes and shapes in spite of the largeness of this sedan. All controls are easily operated and understood. The STS' heated seats work well and fast.

SPECS
MSRP	$47,520; total vehicle price $51,965; destination $720
Engine	4.6-liter Northstar V8 VVT, 320 hp.
Transmission	5-speed automatic with driver shift control
Class	Mid-size
Wheelbase	116.4 in.
Height	57.6 in.
Length	196.3 in.
Width	72.6 in.
Weight	3,921 lbs.
EPA Fuel Economy	17/26 mpg.
Tires	P235/50R17 Michelin
Wheels	17-inch aluminum
Warranty	4 ys/50,000-mile limited warranty

The only real complaint we could muster was about the heightened edge running along the door opening. For a short, elderly person, it was difficult to navigate and sometimes required a lifting of the leg when exiting the vehicle.       

The average person won't be able to tell the STS from the DTS, most likely. Certainly not from a distance. No matter, the STS is the performance luxury sedan, the DTS a more refined and luxurious option.

The current model was introduced for 2005 and has been well-received. Perhaps because its competition isn't particularly innovative or distinguishable. The new Cadillacs are both and although there is no mistaking them for Cadillacs, the new design is a head-turner.

One gets all that's expected with a top luxury performance vehicle, including anti-lock brakes and traction control, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cruise, 8-speaker Bose audio system with XM Satellite radio and power everything. Front and side impact air bags are standard, as are head curtain side impact air bags, and leather seats. OnStar is also standard with up to one year of directions and connections plan at no additional cost.

Daytime running lights and fog lights help in inclement weather and once you become accustomed to driving a vehicle with tungsten halogen headlamps, you'll want no other.

As on other Cadillac models we reviewed, the STS V-8 luxury sports sedan has standard adaptive remote start, a keyless access with the push of a button. Just don't forget to bring the keys with you!

Options are heavy on GM vehicles and our test car's added up to $4500 worth, including the 1SE Luxury Package (Multi-driver memory settings, power adjustable lumbar, heated front seats/rear outboard seats/leather steering wheel, Eucalyptus wood trim on center stack, console, IP, Bose 5.1 studio surround sound with in-dash 6-Disc DVD changer and advance DVD, Navigation, rainsense wipers, trunk convenience net, auto dimming ISRV mirror, 17-inch polished aluminum wheels ($4,445). Exterior Light Platinum paint and interior cashmere trim were included.

We liked driving the new STS V-8 and hated giving it up at the end of the week.

It's the ultimate road car and one you'd hope to be driving when taking a long road trip.