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2005 Cadillac STS Road Test

Finally a Rear-Wheel Drive Contender Worthy of the Streets of Seville

I picked up the 2005 Cadillac STS on a typically rainy day in November. Just to quickly prove to myself that GM wasnt trying to hoodwink us into believing that the STS is not mobilized by its rear wheels, I switched off its traction control system and punched the throttle. Instantly, 320 horsepower was expelled through the tires out back, breaking them free and setting the hefty sedan into an easily managed power drift. Yes, GM has finally got its Seville right!

Seville? OK, Cadillacs 2005 version is called the STS after the alpha designation given to the previous Sevilles sportiest trim level, and maybe Im not ready to let go of a name that has been around

For Cadillac to continue its three lettered theme, started with the CTS, the Seville has been renamed the STS for 2005. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

since the mid-70s. But its necessary for Cadillac to continue its three lettered theme, started with the CTS, followed up by the XLR and XRS, and now the STS.

The completely new sedan rides on GMs highly praised Sigma platform, which has been refined over the period of two years since debuting beneath the edgy sheet metal of Cadillacs performance-oriented

Thankfully, the STS design is softer and far more fluid than its granite slab CTS cousin. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

CTS. Upon seeing the STS first hand, as opposed to photographs, I breathed a sigh of relief. Although the new model bears a family resemblance to the CTS, it doesnt look as though it has been chiseled from a slab of granite. Rather, the STS design is softer and far more fluid.

The high-belted STS benefits from exterior dimensions that exceed those of the CTS, and in doing so is more in line with North American

The high-belted STS benefits from exterior dimensions that exceed those of the CTS. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

midsize sedan expectations. The larger Cadillac is approximately 6 inches longer, 4 inches wider and 1-inch taller than its smaller sibling, which gives it a much more assertive presence on the road.

The extra inches also translate into a larger, more open-feeling cabin, adding a sense of spaciousness not found in the slightly cramped quarters of the CTS - and I like that. Rubbing shoulders in a narrow cabin doesnt generally enhance an automotive experience, although

As much as I like the exterior styling, I have even higher praise for the interior. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

in certain circumstances I guess it could.

My praise for the exterior styling of the STS is only surpassed by my admiration of its interior design. Cadillac has thankfully stayed well away from the modular-look incorporated into both the CTS and SRX offices. The inner sanctum of the STS is smooth and dignified by comparison.

All surfaces impart a feeling of quality and strength. The overall appearance is restrained and classy, especially the short, Eucalyptus wood- and leather-trimmed shift

All surfaces inside the STS impart a feeling of quality and strength. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

lever set amid a thick chrome shift plate. Matching wood trim is tastefully applied to the dash, center console, steering wheel and door pulls. Soft leather inserts adorn the door panels, adding a touch of elegance to an otherwise very discreet interior.

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