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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  Beautiful but Unreliable - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By John Bantsolas - October 15 - 7:50 am

  Ive owned the car 6 months (bought it used with 30,000 miles - now have 36,000 miles on it) drives beautifully but have had 3 major repairs (fortunately still under warranty): engine oil lead (had to disassemble and replace gasket), a/c (needed new compressor), and most recently, coolant leak (needed new water pump). These are repairs I would not expect before 100,000 miles.

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  awesome ultra fine classy car - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By ultrastark - May 30 - 2:32 am

  owning and especially driving this beauty are an absolute pleasure, yea there is the odd glitch here and there such as the interior shud be a bit more prestigous. the 320 hp is awesome they shud have made it a 360hp or so but the 320hp is superfine. sound system is beyond prestige. it handles like a sports car born on the track. what a sweet ride u built it right this time caddy, the headlight and light system mated to the front fascia is a designers showpiece.

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  My Last Cadillac - 2007 Cadillac STS
  By Former Caddy Owner - May 22 - 8:50 pm

  This is my 3rd or 4th Cadillac (lost count) but it is surely my last one. This little STS has had one annoying problem after another...and NO MILES ON IT!!! This evening it has shut down completely and doesnt recognize fobs, wont open the trunk or move out of PARK. Road Side Assistance sent a tow truck out to carry the car back to the dealer, but, the tow driver couldnt budge the car out of PARK. Thankfully, we are home and have a second vehicle (Toyota) so we arent stranded. Now, if this was happening at a mall or anywhere on the road, this incident would be more than infuriating. I would not advise anyone to buy a Cadillac.

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  Dont Buy This Car - At least the 2006 - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By I Bought What??? - April 1 - 8:23 am

  I purchased a Certified 2006 STS w/ 20,000 miles in July 2008. Excellent condition. I traded my Toyota Solara with no regrets until ... the moaning sounds started. Forget driving this car on long interstate trips involving mountains. This is the most annoying noise ever. Ive had it to the dealer 6 times for repair without any luck. They claim to "reprogram" whatever it is they "reprogram," but it never repairs the problem. I didnt think a car like this with over a $55,000 price tag new would have so many problems. I cannot speak for the V6, but the V8 is not up to par with even the 3.0 V6 in my former vehicle the Solara. Im ready for another Toyota! Tell me again why GM is in a mess?

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  Cadillac: The American dream - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Jason - February 20 - 6:56 pm

  Had this car for over a year now and it is the best car I have ever owned. AWD is good in the snow and great in the rain. Drives like a dream.

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  Affordable muscle - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Just Brilliant - February 3 - 9:51 am

  I keep a number of cars- for business, fun, performance and some just to look at. The STS is meant for business appts and really fits the category. Picking a client up in a $100k car or a $1k car sends a message. Its great for taking my hottie out on the town. No worries about the elements or parking lots. Dont settle for less then a fully optioned vehicle. Get the heads up display, V8, navi, sunroof, 15 speaker bose, adaptive cruise, 18 inch wheels. Reliability is an issue along with finding knowledgeable, competent and confident service.

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  BEST CAR - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By johnjohn - January 31 - 11:02 am

  I brought this car used.It is the best car I have ever owned.The looks the ride and comfort are amazing.I have only had to take it in for service.

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  Lemonade - 2008 Cadillac STS
  By LarryG - January 16 - 7:20 am

  Leased my 2008 STS in late December, 2007. Failed camshaft sensor, failed right side cam at 13,000 miles, deffective FOBs, 5-burned out lights, deffective drivers seat lumbar system. Dealer is great but car spends too much time in service bay. Will not lease or buy another GM product. Totaly fed up.

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  Superior exterior design - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By infinitetanner - November 6 - 2:57 pm

  This car has a stunning exterior design, and a nice cockpit layout. Its 4.6L 320 HP is responsive, however the transmission in the AWD has a delay- frustrating. Handles fantastic! Wont peel out though due to AWD system. I have the 1SG luxury edition, that offers: HID xenon head lamps, OnStar, XM, navigation with DVD player built in, 6cd changer, heated and a/c cooled front seats, heated rear seats, 18 rims, bluetooth hands free calling, one touch adjustable performance and touring suspention (formula 1 inspired), spoiler and much more! Despite being a tank, this car is small inside for rear passengers & front passenger. Glove box is a joke, trunk is decent-needs sunglassas holder badly!

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  Good traveling vehicle - 2011 Cadillac STS
  By Chuk - October 22 - 8:51 pm