Cadillac has spent the last few years revamping its image in an effort to attract younger buyers. Radical redesigns and more powerful engines signify a new concentration on blending luxury with both superior performance and cutting-edge technology. The 2009 Cadillac STS returns as a shining example of this goal. The luxury sedan offers confident acceleration, expert handling, and a quiet monster of a V6 engine.

Unchanged from 2008, the roomy STS competes easily with the BMW 5 Series and Infiniti M Class in terms of high-end comfort and satisfying driving experience, though some reviewers found the quality of its interior materials somewhat lacking compared to European counterparts. The sedan comes in V6 and V8 trims, both offered in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. While many may be tempted to get the 320-hp, 4.6-liter V8 engine and 6-speed shiftable automatic, reviewers agree that the new 3.6-liter V6 is just as refined and nearly as powerful (302 hp), and costs significantly less. The direct-injection engine clocks 0-60 mph in just over 6 seconds and gets better (17/26 mpg) fuel economy than the V8's 15/24 rating.

Built on the Sigma platform, the 2009 STS exhibits only slight body roll, and the all-wheel-drive version adds even more confident grip in slippery conditions. Better yet, Cadillac's optional Magnetic Ride Control adapts the suspension for a smoother driving experience. The V8 can be outfitted with a Performance Handling Package, which sports up the sedan with Brembo brakes, a stiffer supsension, and larger 18-inch wheels. This gives more direct road feel to the driver, but does add more bumps and jolts. Most reviewers were impressed with the streamlined ride, but found steering often feels mushy and unresponsive.

The 2009 STS earns high marks in crash tests, with four- and five-star ratings overall. Supplementing its ABS brakes, traction and stability control, and six airbags are must-have options, such as warning systems for lane departure and blind spots, adaptive cruise control (which maintains a safe distance between you and the car ahead), and Intellibeam, which automatically dims your high beams.

The sedan seats up to five passengers, though rear legroom can feel cramped at only 38 inches and front passengers may feel a bit claustrophobic with the high center console. Rear seats do not fold down, and the 14-cubic-foot trunk seems rather small and is made worse by the tiny opening, which makes loading larger objects difficult. In fact, storage space is limited throughout, with few compartments and a small glovebox. All trims come with the full array of power features, leather upholstery, a CD player, and power tilt and telescopic steering, which is missing on other Cadillac models. Boosting up to the Luxury package adds heated and cooled seats, wood trim, and a 6-CD player. The Luxury Performance trim goes the whole nine yards, adding a sunroof, touchscreen navigation, and DVD player.

The 2009 STS seems to set its sights on single drivers, as its lack of adequate cargo space and uncomfortable seat cushions for long rides are not particularly family-friendly. Performance-wise, it responds well to driver input, with responsive braking, maneuverability, and easy-to-operate controls. A quiet ride and confident acceleration remain its high points, with interior space and rear visibility topping the list of negatives.