2006 Cadillac STS-V Test Drive
QUICK SPECS:
• PRICE AS TESTED: $77,090
• ENGINE: Supercharged 4.4L V-8 SC
• HORSEPOWER: 469 hp @ 6,400 rpm / 439 lb-ft at 3,800 rpm
• DRIVETRAIN: Rear-Wheel drive, six speed automatic
• WEIGHT: 4,295 lbs.
• FUEL ECONOMY: 14/20 mpg
By: Dave Chess
469 supercharged horses. Yep, the STS-V is another high performance sports sedan from Cadillac. In addition to the STS-V, Cadillac offers the 400 horsepower CTS-V and the truly classic 469 horsepower supercharged XLR-V hard-top convertible.
The STS-V’s 4.4L supercharged, dual overhead cam Northstar engine also powers the XLR-V, producing its 469 horsepower at 5,400 rpmwith 439 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,800 rpm. Ninety percent of its peak torque is delivered between 2200 and 6,000 rpm.
The Cadillac STS-V can go 0-60 in under 5-seconds in classic Cadillac luxury. The Northstar V-8 SC is mated to Cadillac’s new Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission – the first use of GM’s six-speed automatic.
I found my tester to provide instant acceleration with shifts smooth as silk. The engine is calibrated with the transmission so power instantaneously lowers, and then ramps back up. It makes gear changes so smooth you hardly notice them.
STS-V is designed to look like it just rolled off the line of the DTM Touring Car Series. 18 inch front wheels combine with 19 inch rears and a lower front fascia with a lower grill provide that dragster-wedge look.
The interior is luxurious with hand wrapped leather surfaces throughout. Olive Ash Burl wood appointments add that Cadillac touch of class. Sitting in the STS-V is like sitting in a four star hotel lobby.
Not only does the Cadillac STS-V look good, it performs great – in a civilized manner. The CTS-V is easy to drive. Shifting is so smooth you don’t realize how quickly you are accelerating.
With all that power you need strong brakes. The STS-V comes with Brembo high-performance vented cast-iron disc brakes with four piston calipers. Traction control and StabiliTrak stability control keeps the rear wheels from spinning and the STS-V headed straight instead of sideways.
A sport mode is available with the flick of a switch. front and rear independent suspension feature rear Nivomat performance-tuned load-leveling shocks. I found the ride to be firm yet forgiving over bumpy roads.
My tester’s standard vehicle price of $74,270 was bumped up to $77,090 by addition of gas guzzler tax and destination charge. There were no options listed.
The Cadillac STS-V is aimed squarely at automotive enthusiasts that are considering an alternative to the BMW M5 or Mercedes Benz AMG E55. During my short time at the wheel I was challenged by a black M5. He should be thankful I declined.