2011 Cadillac STS Review

2011 Cadillac STS Review

Cadillac's midsize sport sedan, the Cadillac CTS, features a powerful V-6 and a variety of high-tech safety options

Initially, the STS launched with a 3.6-liter V6 and a 4.6-liter Northstar V8, while a high-performance 4.4-liter supercharged Northstar V8 debuted in 2006 in the decidedly aggressive STS-V. The STS rides on an extended version of GM's premium Sigma architecture, which also underpins the smaller Cadillac CTS. All-wheel-drive is available, marking the STS as the first Cadillac sedan to feature the winter climate-friendly system.

Inside, the Cadillac CTS comes standard with luxuries like leather seats, a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual zone electronic climate controls and real aluminum trim.
Being the middle child can be pretty tough; just ask the 2011 Cadillac STS. Overall, the 2011 Cadillac STS remains a decent luxury sedan.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Cadillac STS is a large luxury sedan available in three trim levels: V6 Luxury Sport, V6 Luxury and V6 Premium.

The V6 Luxury (yes, it's a step up from Luxury Sport) adds wood trim, power lumbar for the front seats, a CD changer, Bluetooth, driver memory settings and heated front seats. Options for the Luxury Sport are minimal, consisting of a performance brake package and all-wheel drive. The Premium trim offers a Performance Handling package (includes upgraded brakes, high-performance summer tires and chrome wheels) as well as a Premium Luxury Collection package (includes a sunroof, a blind-spot monitor, lane-departure warning and a head-up display).

All trims come standard with rear-wheel drive, and AWD is an option on the Luxury Sport and Luxury trims.

Safety
Antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability control and a full complement of airbags are standard on every 2011 Cadillac STS. The Cadillac STS has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash testing procedures. In side-impact tests, the STS scored four stars for front passengers and five stars for rear passengers. Depending on trim level, the STS's cabin is fitted with aluminum accents and real wood trim as well.