2007 Cadillac STS

For 2007, the Cadillac STS undergoes a driveline change: models equipped with the V8 engine now receive a six-speed automatic transmission in place of 2006’s five-speed. As well, OnStar now includes a turn-by-turn navigation service. There are also two new options, a Performance Handling Package and Platinum Package. The supercharged STS-V is unchanged.

The STS is available with a 3.6-litre V6 and five-speed automatic, and a 4.6-litre Northstar V8 with the new six-speed automatic; both engine sizes can be optioned with all-wheel drive.

Both models come with the expected luxuries: fog lights, heated power mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming and passenger side parking tilt-down, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels with V-rated tires, automatic dual-zone electronic climate control, cruise control, auto-dimming rearview mirror with three-button OnStar, leather-wrapped wheel, power tilt and telescopic wheel, front and rear express up/down windows, heated leather seats with eight-way power driver’s seat and four-way power passenger seat, rear-seat pass-through, CD/MP3 player with eight speakers, wiper-activated headlights and rear parking assist.

The V8 adds rear air conditioning controls, three-channel garage door opener, luggage net, memory seating, heated steering wheel, wood accents, and front and rear heated seats.

Available STS options include performance wheel and tires packages, Bose 5.1 surround sound system with 15 speakers, navigation system, premium seats, adaptive cruise control and sunroof.

The STS-V creates 469 horsepower from its hand-assembled supercharged 4.4-litre engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control and Brembo brakes. The interior is also created individually with hand-cut and hand-wrapped leather surfaces and Olive Ash Burl wood accents. Its exclusive styling features include a polished stainless steel wire mesh front grille, lower front fascia grille, brake cooling ducts, V-specific hood, ten-spoke alloy wheels, rear spoiler and V-specific badging.

The STS combines angular styling with good performance and a well-done interior; handling is crisp and tight, and even the V6 is well mated to the package. Front-seat passengers enjoy long-haul comfort, although the rear seat is tighter than expected for the vehicle’s size. The STS-V is a considerable step up in price, but that also includes blistering performance, and with steering ability and braking capacity that can easily handle the supercharged power.