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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  Former Import Loyalist - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By PMS - March 5 - 8:37 am

  I must say that I have been a loyal import consumer until I looked at the Cadillac STS. After extensive research and test driving, I fell in love with my new STS. The interior, drive, performance and comfort could not be duplicated for the price. It has awesome technology. So far its been a pleasure to own.

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  05 STS fun To Drive - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Rick - February 17 - 12:44 am

  What a beautiful car. Fun to drive. The most quiet car I have ever been in. The power in the V-6 is more than needed. Buyng a V8 would be a waste. Or you just want too much power. You cannot feel the trany shift. Smooth as silk. Just a great car.

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  Im impressed with my new STS - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Samuel Halter - February 9 - 1:26 am

  My Cadillac STS is very new, but so far, Im impressed. The sound system, HUD, OnStar, keyless entry/starting, 18 inch wheels and XM radio are outstanding features. The car also looks great.

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  "The" Car to Have ... - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By DG1 - February 8 - 11:33 pm

  I have owned the AWD Cadillac STS for about three months and 5,000 miles. It is down right fantastic! The car performs even better then it looks. The interior is beautiful and several steps up from my previous CTS. Anyone looking for the best all around car in the world should simply start looking at your nearest Cadillac dealer. If you bring your checkbook, you will want to buy the STS .

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  2005 Cadillac STS - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By kg55 - January 26 - 4:15 pm

  My 2005 Cadillac STS rides like a dream! It is tight, smooth and quiet. Its standard features were enough, but with just the V6 Luxury Equipment Group and Premium Upgrade Package, I have more creature comforts than I have ever had! There has been no wind noise and it handles the bumps as well as any foreign luxury car. I look forward to the ride to and from work!

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  Cadillac gets back to great cars - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Senior Male - January 25 - 1:00 am

  I traded a 1993 Lexus LS400, which was purchased new and was a terrific car. My new Cadillac STS is quicker, faster, more secure on the road, and a lot more fun to drive. The shifter provides control just like a manual transmmission. I love all the autumatic goodies. In just a few weeks the car became a very accomodating good friend.

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  What a Cadillac - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Robert Stephens - January 20 - 7:47 pm

  First of all I love the keyless entry system in the 2005 Cadillac STS. When you sit behind the wheel you can feel the room and see the beauty of the interior. I just love the real wood in the dash. Though this car is a V6 it has as much power as my 1984 Chevrolet Corvette. It really has the Cadillac ride which no car maker can match. It is fun to drive.

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  Unbelievable and Remarkable vehicle - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By BMW fan - January 16 - 4:28 pm

  My 2005 Cadillac STS is an unbelievable car. The handling, ride, and power are better than BMW, Lexus, Mercedes or any other import car. I test drove a Lexus LS 430 right before the Cadillac STS and the ride quality was exactly the same, which really surprised me. Its almost as if GM duplicated the ride quality.

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  Review - 2005 Cadillac STS - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By bill james - January 15 - 1:34 pm

  My 2005 Cadillac STS is fun to drive. Its power is there when it is needed. It has a very quiet ride. It also has a roomy interior and easy access when getting in and out. The option of automatic or manual shifting also make it a blast to drive.

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  I Love it!! - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Bigdog63121 - January 13 - 12:08 am

  Have driven a lot of cars in my 55 years and by far my 2005 Cadillac STS is the best. Not only is it the most fun to drive, it is also the best handling. Plenty of my friends have gone the import route and the ones who have had the chance to ride in, or drive my STS are truly impressed. I gave up a 300 hp Northstar for the 265 hp V6 in this car and have not looked back. I have all the acceleration that I need and I never got up to 150 mph any way!