Under the skin is GM's Sigma platform, which is used in Cadillac's CTS and SRX vehicles. The sophisticated suspension features shock absorbers that have oppositely oriented electromagnets for delivering a good balance between precise handling and a comfortable ride. The result is a car that tracks well regardless of the road surface. Our only qualm is that while the optional ZF-made steering rack delivers tight turning for parking, it requires near-constant input at highway speeds. With four-wheel disc brakes, the STS stops straight with a minimum of ABS chatter.
As good as it is, at 4,230 pounds, the 2005 Cadillac STS is too muscle-bound for life in a world of $50 fill-ups. Its real-world fuel economy of 14.5mpg over 400 miles of city and rural driving is absurd, as is the $1,000 gas-guzzler tax and 250-mile range. Those who like to do repairs themselves will be frustrated because the engine offers little in the way of access. Sure, you can check the oil and windshield cleaner, but just about everything else is covered by black plastic trim.
Without a doubt, the combination of the car's heads-up display (HUD) and adaptive cruise control is a techno tour de force. The HUD projects key data on to the windshield, where the driver can see it without refocusing. Speed is always there, but driving directions, climate-control changes, and a CD track are added as needed. The four-color display is always visible, but the glass annoyingly reflects the dashboard. Meanwhile, the 2005 Cadillac STS has the best cruise control on the road, with a radar receiver in the grille that maintains constant spacing between cars. It, however, sometimes mistakenly picks up a vehicle in the next lane.
About the only safety trick that the 2005 Cadillac STS misses is that, unlike the Infiniti M45, it lacks a backup camera to display what's behind you as you're reversing the vehicle. However, the STS will warn you when the car gets too close to an object with a beeping sound, so you'll never scratch its bumper when parallel parking. Other safety features include automatic rain sensors, an autodimming rearview mirror, Intellibeam headlights that turn on the high beams, and a nifty tire gauge that monitors pressure and warns you if a tire is going flat. We enjoyed all these tech luxuries, but sometimes the STS goes too far, with side-view mirrors that tilt down and inward to help you back up and scan for obstructions, such as children or sneaky garbage cans. It ends up being more annoying than helpful. Still, this is one safe car: It has front and side air bags for the driver and passenger, as well as curtain bags all around. Oddly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not rated the STS for crash worthiness and occupant protection.Cadillac is up to date with an excellent owner's Web site that has personalized warranty information, online manuals, recalls, and current trade-in values. GM covers the car for four years/50,000 miles and includes roadside service.
Where to buy
2005 Cadillac STS:
$41,220.00
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Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price From Edmunds.com
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$41,220.00 |
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