DriveTech

2006 Cadillac STS-V has performance plus luxury

As a big Cadillac lover, I was a little disappointed when Cadillac stopped giving its car names and began using letters instead. For instance, the STS used to be called the Seville. Still, it hits the ground running, especially if you opt for the V version.

If you're a hot rodder by nature, but really like Cadillac comforts, then you'll love the STS-V. Cadillac started with a stock STS rear-wheel drive, four-door sedan, then put in a 4.4-liter Northstar V8 that produces 469 horsepower and 439 pound foot of torque. The stock V8 comes with 320 horsepower and a supercharger, backed by a six-speed automatic transmission with driver shift control, which allows you to shift manually. This is not a harsh suspension ride. In fact, it's very comfortable. But if you dive into a turn, the STS-V stays solid and allows you to drive out of the turn with confidence.

It has brakes by Brembo, a leader in performance braking, and so it stops on demand. There is a set of aluminum wheels (18s up front and 19s in the rear) surrounded by EMT Pirellis (P255/45R18 up front and P275/40R19 in the rear). For looks, there's a small V-series spoiler on the trunk lid and a leather-wrapped interior. Notice the colorful V insignia on the trunk lid. On the outside front driver and passenger doors is the script plus the word "Supercharged," which lets folks know you're serious about driving.

The STS-V gets 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 miles per gallon on the freeway. Still, for people who can afford an STS-V, the price of gas isn't really an issue - comfort and performance are, and this car has both. It has all the amenities of a stock STS, including Stablitrak (Cadillac's stability control system), rear wheel drive, a performance cooling package and a limited slip rear differential with ZF premium steering gear.

My test STS-V had "light platinum silver" exterior paint with a light gray interior consisting of full-nuance leather seating with perforated suede inserts and an accent touch of olive ash wood. The power seats come with heat in the front and the rear seats. I sat in the back and found it very roomy and comfortable. It has a Bose 5.1 studio surround sound system with a six-disc changer plus XM Radio.

My tester came with a power sunroof and rain sensing wipers, which I have used in the past and should be standard on all cars (if you ask me). It has OnStar and a navigation system, but I think it's easier to push the blue button on the roof and ask the voice, "Where am I and how do I get where I want to go?" Looking at the navigation screen is distracting. You also have to program the navigation before heading out.

The safety features of the STS-V are standard, top-of-the-line Cadillac, including driver and passenger front and side impact airbags, head curtain side impact airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system (low tire pressure causes more accidents due to blowouts), dimming inside and outside mirrors that stop the glare (great for nighttime driving) and a back-up warning system. Plus, the cabin is surrounded by crumple zones and beams in the doors to keep you and your occupants safe.

I really liked the STS-V. I like having a little power under my foot and it corners very well. In fact, there really isn't anything I didn't like about this car.

If I were in the market for a luxury sedan, I'd certainly put this one on my list. If you're more into luxury and comfort than performance, check out the standard STS (without the V). You can see this car at Marvin K. Brown Cadillac in Mission Valley. I want to thank the crew at MKB for their hospitality.