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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  Love it but Cramped - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By ADMIN - July 20 - 3:11 pm

  I just bought my first ever Cadillac. It looks great, drives so smoothly but lacks backseat leg room and has very little storage room. It is very difficult to get out of, but overall it is luxury through and through.

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  Transmission! - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Chris - July 13 - 1:54 pm

  My STS transmission is awful! When downshifting, it has trouble finding a gear, especially when you want to re-accelerate. It makes for a very rough ride. At speed, its okay. Also, its voice recognition is poor. The electronics are too complicated, too. The learning curve is fairly steep. I also dont like the adaptive cruise control. Bluetooth is a joke as well.

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  Switched - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Arturo - June 26 - 10:38 pm

  I had to have the the fuel tank in my 05 STS replaced, the fuel gauage repaired, and replaced the main module that controls the memory. I was informed after purchase that the DRL will not function if you opt to engage the auto rain sensing wipers even if the manual indicates that you can.

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  Why doesnt Cadillac Listen! - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Bobb - June 26 - 10:24 pm

  My new STS is a well built alternative to the off shore crowd. I find it to be a quiet car with enough power to give it that "fun"factor." All in all, I am satisfied with the vehicle. That said, there are many shortcommings with the car that Cadillac never should have allowed to pass. The storage inside the car is just pitiful. The glove box is not large enough to fit my gloves in! The center console is tiny and there is no back seat storage to speak of. But it is the electronics that really sour my opinion of the car. Voice recognition? Not my voice. Want to use your Bluetooth phone? Not while you are moving. Change your destination on the Nav? Have to stop the car! This is simply a stupid design.

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  STS Power! - 2005 Cadillac STS
  By Anthony Cronin - March 26 - 7:59 pm

  I have had this car for almost a year now. Every option has come into play by now and the ride is comfortable and very aggressive. The Tiptronic transmission isnt very good at all though. It has no control nor has any power behind it. I drive the STS about 400-550 miles a week and I love it. It is great on long trips and very economic in your daily drive around neighborhood. It has had a few computer problems, or re-calls. But I think that the wear is partial to that. I love the car, I definitely want another STS in the near future.

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  AWD Alternative to Lexus 430/460 - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By sanjeevp - March 17 - 6:10 am

  One of the best vehicles to come out of Detroit. Nice balance between the performance and handling of BMW & Mercedes and comfort of Lexus 430. Performance, handling and ride are excellent user interface and voice recognition are poorly executed reliability for 1st year is good according to CR. Good (and less expensive) AWD alternative to Lexus 430/460 in Northern snow areas in my opinion superior to BMW and Mercedes. But you can still get better value for money with the Infiniti M45.

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  First Cadillac Ever - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Jay Holloway - February 19 - 3:49 pm

  I bought my Cadillac STS V6 around Christmas time, trading in a Mercedes-Bena. Previously, I have had two Lexus GS 300s. The STS is very quiet and comfy. The DVD audio is SLOW to respond to orders though and the voice recognition does not work. Its Bluetooth is reliable. The navigation system is fine, but wont let you use it while driving even if your passenger is trying to use it. Bluetooth functionality is limited while driving as well. The backseat is tight for leg room. OnStar costs a fortune. The trunk is smaller than expected. Having said this, my ownership experience has been excellent despite the flaws. The stereo using DVD audio discs has OUTSTANDING sound quality and will make you really want it. The video image and functionalty of the navigation screen is large but average resolution. The interior ambience with DVD audio is great.

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  My Early Opinion - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By joe casazza - January 29 - 12:33 pm

  I just got my 2006 Cadillac STS V8. While its styling is appealing, the rear seat comfort is very tight. Also, its quality is not as good as I had expected. The instructions for the electronics is very confusing. Even dealer personnel have difficulty due to the use of different systems in different models. The keytless start feature is OK, but not great. the stereo is fantastic!

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  Get the AWD - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By Not A Fossil - January 23 - 3:00 pm

  The 2WD Cadillac STS has trouble going when the forecast even calls for snow. My 2% driveway grade is too much for it with just a dusting. That being said, the ride and quality is better than my previous Lexus. Its fun to drive. I had to replace the front control arm after 6,000 milies though. This is a common problem with STS and CTS according to the service manager.

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  STS - Ride is VERY FIRM - 2006 Cadillac STS
  By johnnocalif - January 15 - 1:29 am

  If you are looking for a soft, luxurious Cadillac-style ride, you wont find it in the STS. Its bucket seats are pure Mercedes stiff. I have moved from a 2004 Jaguar S-Type with the Sport Package to a 2006 STS V6 with the Performance Luxury Package. I love the STS and all the technology. The STS feels more luxurious and larger. It has great ride, is quiet, and has no road vibration - but the seats are so firm that it ruins the ride. The lumbar support is too hard and does not fit a 62" body. The Jag S-Type rides softer on the freeway and tighter winding roads. I love many things about the STS, but a 1-2 hour drive is all that I can stand.