At the beginning of 2000, Cadillac chose to rename its vehicles using acronyms. And so, the famous Sedan de Ville became STS, which was a short take for the Seville Touring Sedan. The vehicle itself was based on the GM Sigma RWD platform, with V6 and V8 engines, which was a transition from the former Seville with front-wheel-drive. An enhancement for the Sigma platform meant that there was also an all-wheel-drive version.
The power ranged from the 3.6-liter V6 with 255 hp to the top version with the V8 Northstar engine with a displacement of 4.6 liters and 320 hp. Both were equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission fitted as standard. There was not any manual transmission available for the big STS. The carmaker claimed that the STS was the car that every owner wanted to drive, not only to be driven.
The fascia reminded of that found on the smaller CTS. Also, the rear kept the same angular lines. But the overall exterior look is that of a big barge on wheels. The 2004 model was sold as a 2005 model and was packed by GM with a lot of options to make the ride smoother and nicer. A magnetic ride control system was introduced and it was OK as long as it worked. Some recalls affected the STS, the ride was actually not that good and the fuel-efficiency was down the drain compared to any standards.
The OnStar safety system was good, though, customers being very satisfied with the help of this system, whether they were asking for directions or unlocking the car. And most customers loved the Cadillac way of building a “two-body room” trunk. Or large suitcases, whatever works.