In 2005, rising out of the front-wheel drive ashes once known as the Seville, Cadillac took a huge technological leap by adopting GM's global Sigma rear- and all-wheel-drive platform and developing its line of powerful Northstar engines. The STS was born and for the 2008 model year another jump comes with the introduction of a new V6.
GM's new direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 produces 302-hp and makes the STS's optional 4.6-liter, 320-hp V8 superfluous, especially when it's a $9,000 option. The V8 turns the 0-60 jump in 6.3 seconds and reviewers claim the V6 provides "similar gusto." And, this new V6 runs on regular fuel. The EPA city/highway gas mileage numbers add further incentive: V6 - 17/26 with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; V8 - 15/24 rear-wheel and 14/21 w/AWD. Cadillac offers only one transmission, a six-speed automatic that didn't impress some reviewers.
The STS handles well, feeling smaller when driven with enthusiasm. While Cadillac offers the option of Magnetic Ride suspension that includes a Touring and Sport mode, which some reviewers felt unnecessary as the standard STS handles competently; minimal body roll, "spot on" steering, and good braking with short 120 foot stops from 60 mph.
Standard safety features abound with six airbags, four-wheel-disc ABS, electronic stability and traction control. The safety option list is as inclusive as it is innovative: adaptive cruse control, where the system watches out what's ahead of you; a heads-up display that places speed and other essential information on the windshield to keep your eyes on the road; Intellibeam, which dims your high beams for you; the new Side Blind Zone Alert, which alerts you when a car enters your blind spots; and the Lane Departure Warning System, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane.
The weak point in all of this, according to some reviewers, comes when you sit down. While Cadillac upgraded the exterior and the mechanicals of the STS, the interior, though freshen for 2008, still shows a lack of attention to fit and quality materials.
