2007 Cadillac STS

For 2007, the Cadillac STS receives a few changes in equipment. A six-speed automatic transmission comes with the V-8 trim, and the Performance Handling package features Brembo brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport tires, and 18-inch chrome wheels. Like most Cadillac vehicles, the wheels feature a colored wreath and crest, and the powertrain warranty extends to five years or 100,000 miles.

The Cadillac STS full-size sport sedan offers two trims that indicate engine size: V6 or V8. Either trim offers rear or all-wheel drive. All trims come standard with 17-inch wheels, while the V8 version adds rain-sensing wipers. Standalone options include an adaptive suspension system called Magnetic Ride Control as well as larger 18-inch wheels. Standalone gear, available only for the V8 trim, includes xenon headlamps with washers and the ""Intellibeam"" system that automatically controls the high beams.

All 2007 Cadillac STS trims feature aluminum interior trim, leather seating, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone climate control, remote vehicle start, XM satellite radio, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, and OnStar. The V8 trim adds a CD changer, memory seating presets, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and real wood trim. Many of the V8's features can be added to the V6 model through different packages. Other standalone features for all trims include a DVD entertainment and navigation system, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2007 STS provides two engine options: a 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 255 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque and a 4.6-liter V-8 that makes 320 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 mates to a five-speed automatic transmission, while the V-8 pairs with a six-speed automatic. Both transmissions offer regular and sport shift programs. Either model offers front drive for improved performance and economy (although the gain in fuel economy remains slight) or all-wheel drive for improved traction.

The STS sport sedan faces some serious competition, especially from vaunted German automakers. The V6 trim offers very respectable performance, but the V8 trim with the big motor really competes. It reaches 60 mph in 6.3 seconds and runs the quarter-mile sprint in a quick 14.4 seconds. These figures don’t quite lead this impressive segment, but the STS hangs with the top contenders.

The 2007 Cadillac STS mixes big-car comfort and smaller-car handling. The optional Magnetic Ride suspension turns the STS into a fine performance machine with a stiffer ride, but nimble moves. This option has a Touring setting that allows the STS to ride more smoothly and emphasize comfort, yet even in this mode, the STS remains well-mannered and inspires confidence. Suffice to say the STS matches it rivals in performance and handling.

All models of the 2007 Cadillac STS include standard safety equipment, such as stability control, anti-lock disc brakes, a tire-pressure monitor, and a full complement of airbags. The airbags include front-seat side and full-length side curtain. In IIHS crash testing, the STS earns mostly the highest rating of ?good,? but receives a ?poor? rating for overall rear-end collision safety and a rating of ?acceptable? for head and neck safety in all forms of crashes. In NHTSA testing, the STS earns either four out of five stars or five out of five stars for all of the tests. Results from both government safety testing groups indicate that the STS reaches well above average when it comes to occupant protection.

• Price
• Good handling for a full-size sedan
• Powerful engine
• Available all-wheel drive
• Bose stereo

• No manual transmission option
• Some out-of-place cabin materials for this price range
• Stiff seats

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