Cadillac STS saloon

Cadillac's STS is a distinctive looking alternative to the likes of the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. Offering levels of interior space not far of Mercedes' S-Class, what the STS lacks in subtlety it more than makes up for in practicality. Only available with a choice of 3.6-litre V6’s or a 4.6-litre V8 there is currently no efficient diesel option available so be prepared for the high running costs. Ideal for long journeys and carrying a full load of passengers, the STS's large size and heavy weight mean that it is not the most dynamic car to drive but none-the-less it still manages respectable performance and has surprisingly good poise through the corners.

There are no diesel engine options available in the STS line-up which means petrol costs from the large and thirsty V6 and V8's are inevitably going to be very expenisve. As a result residual values aren't great either making the STS apotentially costly car to own and run in the long term.

For such a large and heavy car, the Cadillac STS is surprisingly competent through the corners. Steering feels over-assisted and a little light, but for an American saloon, the STS is a strong performer but ultimately lacks the driver involvement offered by its European rivals. Whether you choose one of the two 3.6-litre V6 options or the more powerful 4.6-litre V8, the STS feels powerful on the move and the large Brembo brakes mean that stopping quickly is never a problem either.

One thing the STS certainly isn't short on is space. Inside, the amount of head and legroom is closer to the Mercedes S-Class than it is to rivals like the Jaguar XF and Audi A6. This is most evident in the back where there is more than enough room to comfortably sit three large adults. Standard levels of equipment are very impressive too.

The STS is big and bold. offering huge amounts of space for the cost, the boot is simply enournmous, too. An ideal car for chauffering groups of people around, there are very few cars in its class which will rival the STS for all round space and comfort.

Cadillac is constantly improving its reliabilty record and the STS is another step in the right direction. The cabin does feel a bit plasticy though and overall quality feels someway short of its European rivals. Another problem is the tiny Cadillac dealer network currently in place in the UK.

Starting at £35,000 for the entry-level V6 and rising to £42,000 for the V8, Cadillac STS’s is similarly priced to compared its rivals. For this you get a bold and distinctive looking car unlike many other things on the road. You also get a far bigger car for your money. Levels of luxury are impressive too.