The six-passenger
2011 Cadillac DTS is a full-size luxury sedan with an optional front bench seat manufactured at three trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium, and Platinum. Powered by a 4.6-liter V-8 engine coupled to a four-speed automatic, the Cadillac DTS is badly in need of an upgraded transmission.
While the Cadillac DTS has a well-appointed interior and superb features, it continues to fall behind in terms of styling and overall performance, although the trunk is spacious. The DTS sports an exceptional suspension for a soft, comfortable ride. Stymied by its weight, the DTS gets only a measly 15 mpg city / 23 mpg highway, according to EPA ratings. Cadillac's outstanding safety systems are standard on the DTS.
New for 2011
For 2011, the Cadillac DTS carries over largely unchanged.
Essentials
Engine: 4.6L V-8
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Body Style: Sedan
Trims: Base Sedan, Luxury Sedan, Premium Sedan, Platinum Sedan
On the Outside
Although it was rather striking in its day, the Cadillac DTS updates are non-existent for 2011.
From the Inside
Standard on the Cadillac DTS are power leather seats, a premium stereo, and automatic climate control. Seat heaters, a power-adjustable steering column, and navigation are optional.
Driving Performance
While the Cadillac DTS comes with only one engine, a 4.6-liter DOHC V-8, it comes in two power levels. All trims except the Platinum trim generate 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and the Platinum trim puts out 292 horsepower and 288 pound-feet. The four-speed transmission and suspension are tuned for comfort, not performance, and self-adjusting magnetic dampeners are available for an even more comfortable ride.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the Cadillac 2011 is excellent and includes OnStar Automatic Crash Response, electronic stability and traction control, driver and passenger front and side airbags, and side curtain and rear side airbags. Lane Departure Warning and blind spot warning systems are optional on some trims.
Gas Mileage
Base, Luxury, Premium: 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway
Platinum: 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway
Plusses
- Roomy interior
- High powered V-8 engine
- Standard OnStar
- Huge trunk
- Smooth, comfortable ride
Minuses
- Four-speed automatic transmission
- Poor fuel economy
- Outdated design
- heavy weight
Rating
Does not a flagship make
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