Overview & Reviews

Though it evolved into an entirely different species, the luxury performance DNA of the Cadillac STS can be traced all the way back to the special range-topping Seville hardtop coupe of the 1950s. At that time one of the fastest, flashiest and most luxurious cars on the road, it evolved into various different forms over the course of several decades until emerging as the buttoned-down STS luxury sedan.

If you're in the market for a used luxury sedan with competitive amounts of power, roominess, comfort and value, a STS could be a good idea. However, it was largely eclipsed in terms of performance and luxury by competing Japanese and European sedans in its later years. Even its smaller CTS sibling offered better performance and handling, a much nicer interior and class-competitive interior space.

Most Recent Cadillac STS
The Cadillac STS was a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan that was produced from 2005 through 2011. A midcycle refresh took place for '08, bringing revised styling, a more luxuriously trimmed interior and a new base engine. We suggest focusing your search on cars from these later model years.

Originally, the STS came standard with a 255-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic. This was replaced by a 302-hp V6 and six-speed auto for 2008. With the exception of the STS's final model year in 2011, buyers could opt for a 320-hp 4.6-liter V8 coupled to a six-speed auto. Originally, each engine represented a different trim level, as the V8 came standard with the V6's optional heated front and rear seats, memory functions, heated steering wheel and automatic wipers. Key options to look for included a magnetically controlled adaptive suspension, adaptive cruise control, a navigation system and ventilated front seats.

For 2010 and 2011, however, trim levels were introduced. The V6 came in Luxury Sport, Luxury and Premium trims, while the V8 was available in Luxury and Performance. The actual equipment that was available didn't really change. Many of the previous options were simply redistributed into the upper trims, though it should be noted that all but the V6 Luxury trims got upgraded braking, steering and cooling systems.

In reviews and road tests, our editors found the strengths of the Cadillac STS to include surprising agility, respectable performance and a high-quality audio system. Downsides include a somewhat old-fashioned feel compared to its rivals, a small trunk and hit-or-miss interior quality. Overall, it's hard to fully endorse this full-size luxury sedan when Cadillac's own smaller CTS from the time offered a more involving drive while only giving up a bit of interior space to its big brother.

Previous Cadillac STS Models
Used shoppers may come across an older STS. Technically a trim level (there was also an SLS), this is actually the front-wheel-drive, fifth-generation Seville produced from 1998-2003. The STS was the "performance-oriented version" of that car and featured a more powerful V8 engine along with more luxury features. The 1992-'97 Seville also featured a similar STS edition.

User Reviews:

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  Never again - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Jeff - June 10 - 9:20 am

  I thought this car would be fun and practical. I have the STS 4, all wheel drive. I have owned it for 7 months and have already made four trips to the dealer and the issues are still not corrected. I have had on-going problems with the all wheel drive and leaks, seals, etc. It has excessive wind noise (which is a a joke for a $60,000 car, my Honda is much quieter). My car has a horrible issue with its acceleration / transmission and the engine nearly seeming to stall out when I want to accelarate on turns and corners. It has a poor HVAC system. It would take a librarian 6 weeks of reading to figure out all the electronics on the car and how to use them. The interior is way too small. Plus there is no back seat space. I am not happy.

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  The STS - Enjoy It For What It Is! - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By bassplayer - May 30 - 10:01 am

  I test drove several sport sedans and entry level luxury cars before purchasing this one. The $5,000 dealer incentive had a lot to do with the purchase, Ill admit, but the car is tremendous, and a fine example of American car makers getting it right. It blends performance with luxury, and offers more back seat room and trunk space than several comparable cars. I agree with many reviewers that the glove box is poorly designed and offers no space. However, the combination of power, AWD, luxury, braking, toys (XM, OnStar, Nav, etc.) were too good to pass up. This is a great looking car with a compliant ride with just enough road feel for me. Bottom line, enjoy the car for what it is!

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  Great car except... - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By James Bridges - May 27 - 12:23 pm

  The Cadillac STS is a great car except for its very poor glove box design. Also, the rear seats are cramped, there is only room for 2 passengers. The trunk is small for this class of vehicle, it has poor storage. There is only luggage space for 2 passengers.

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  STS Cadillac - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By ed - May 17 - 9:05 am

  This is the finest Cadillac that I have driven to date (I have had nine previously). The handling is suberb and rivals that of a BMW (I have driven the 5- and 7-Series). The pickup is better than I espected from a V6 (less than 7 seconds). The interior is more than adequate for me (62"). This car has all the amenities that you would want and most are standard. I have white diamond paint which cost $995 retail which is a bit much, but it is a beautiful color. The car is very tight and there very little road noise that enters the cabin. While the STS isnt for everyone it is for the discerning driver. Hats off to GM because I think they finally got it right.

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  Cadillac V8 STS - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By DMakoff - May 15 - 11:58 pm

  This is the best car I have leased. I find its ride to be more fun than the top tier German cars I have had and it has a better sound system. It is priced right, at considerable savings over the competition. GM got it right with this car.

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  Satisfied Customer - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By The white streak! - May 10 - 4:39 pm

  I really enjoy the vehicle and love the look and feel! I have experienced squeeking in my breaks though. All of the interior features are generally wonderful. It can be difficult to get into the vehicle, but overall the ride and feel are wonderful! I have had many had many people comment on the look of the car and most people are in love with it!

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  No more Lexus for me... - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Marvin Mays - May 4 - 5:35 am

  I love my Cadillac STS. I was a Lexus man until I test drove a STS with the G package and the Northstar V-8. Its a whole lotta fun just to drive around the city. Driving on the open road will take your breath away. It is nice to see an american car built this well

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  Overall opinion - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By dippers - April 4 - 5:16 pm

  I am quite disappointed with the overall performance. I find the ride to be very uncomfortable. Also, there is excessive road (tire) noise at highway speeds. The front end feels sloppy going over small (speed) bumps. The front struts were replaced approximately two weeks after purchase. I wasnt aware of the diffence in tire size between front and rear which negates tire rotation. I also average about 14 mpg city driving not 17. This will definitely not be my car choice in the future.

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  Power, Luxury, Price Equals Value - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Skyking - April 4 - 7:38 am

  After looking at V8 models of comparable cars from Inifinti, Lexus, and Mercedes I discovered the answer was built in America, In style, performance, technology, comfort, convience, and luxury the the Cadillac STS added up to value. The convenience of making a call and having the car picked up for service with a loaner STS dropped off cannot be beat. It is everything I was looking for in a car for less money than the competitors. When more costs less I consider that the mark of VALUE.

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  Sorry... I lose!!! - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Jac122 - April 2 - 7:32 pm

  This is my second Caddy. I owned a 2003 Seville SLS, what a perfect car. I looked forward to all the "goodies" in the 2006 model....WHAT A MISTAKE! The car is so sluggish it remains in 5th gear most of the time. Press the accelerator and HOPE, then pray it responds usually wont. Bluetooth has no teeth. Frequently does not recognize phone, and does not work while driving. The voice recognition does not recognize ANYONE! Its gas mileage is only about 15 mpg. GM knows of the sluggishness and says "it’s up to specs" “Your loss buddy.” Just give me my 2003 SLS and well call it even. If you are considering a 06 STS V6 AWD, beware and test drive extensively first.