2009 Cadillac DTS Luxury III

The 2009 Cadillac DTS Luxury III sedan pampers occupants with such luxury-oriented features as massaging heated and cooled front seats, a power tilt/telescopic wood and leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, rear-seat lumbar adjustment, and wood interior trim. Nuance leather upholstery comes standard throughout the cabin. The outboard rear seats are also heated. Tri-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry are among the DTS Luxury III's other standard features. Drivers can use OnStar, which comes standard, to access such features as turn-by-turn navigation, remote door unlock, and roadside assistance, while a Bose audio system with a 6-CD changer, XM satellite radio, and an MP3 input jack keeps passengers entertained. An Ultrasonic Parking Assist system, also standard, notifies drivers with LED indicators and an audible warning if it detects objects nearby when backing up. A DVD-based navigation system and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof are among the interior options. In addition, owners can opt for a Platinum package, which adds such features as a lane-departure warning system, premium Tuscany leather upholstery, illuminated door sills, and unique interior and exterior trim.

Outside, the '09 DTS Luxury III comes equipped with such trim-only features as self-dimming headlights and rain-sensing wipers, as well as LED taillights, heated exterior mirrors, and a driver's-side auto-dimming mirror. A 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine powers the '09 DTS Luxury III. The engine produces 275 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, and links to a four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission. The EPA estimates fuel economy numbers for the V8 at 15/23 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium-grade gasoline for the V8. GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, all-speed traction control, and antilock brakes with brake assist all come standard. The '09 DTS Luxury III rides on 17-inch wheels with all-season tires.

By R. Feeman