Cadillac DTS is a powerful but refined sedan
2006 Cadillac DTS
Published: Oct 2, 2006
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THE RIDE: Four-door, up to six-passenger 2006 Cadillac DTS full-size luxury sedan.
DOWN THE ROAD: A replacement for the DeVille, this front-wheel-drive Cadillac receives some fine-tuning for 2006. Available only in one model trim but with the Luxury I, Luxury II and Performance packages, the DTS is a powerful but refined and sophisticated sedan. Numerous creature comforts in the generous interior bring relief, especially during long-distance trips.
TECH & PERFORMANCE: The 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 engine churns out 275 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 292 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. That's plenty to pull this 4,000-plus pound sedan off to a flying start. Mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, the DTS sits on a four-wheel independent suspension made up of MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar in the front and a multilink rear with coil springs and monotube shocks. The Magnasteer (magnetic variable assist, speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering) gives the car a firm and responsive on-road feel. The ultrasonic park control system warns you of obstructions in the front or rear with beeps, making it easy to park or back out of tight spots.
LOOK & FEEL: The familiar Cadillac egg-grate grille with its center-mounted wreath and crest badge adorns the refreshed front fascia. Boosting the bold appearance are jewel-like, vertically stacked headlights and tail lamps. The cabin, with wood trim on the dashboard, door panels and around the shifter, is first-rate. The opulence continues as you plop down on spacious leather seats, resting your arm on the leather-covered center console. The four-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel offers a firm grip to steer the car. The analog-jewel clock, just above the clearly separated audio and climate control knobs, looks tasteful and elegant. And yes, the front seats can be heated or cooled.
SAFETY FIRST: The DTS showers you with a security blanket, all included as standard equipment. The safety features include dual front and side airbags, a side curtain for all seats, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, front and rear crumple zones and StabiliTrak with brake assist and magnetic ride control.
OUT THE DOOR: $43,695, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges. My test-drive vehicle was equipped with a $1,795 sun and sound package, which includes a sunroof and an in-dash six-disc CD changer.
BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 225/55SR17 alloy; wheelbase, 115.6 inches; length, 207.6 inches; weight, 4,009 pounds; fuel capacity, 18.5 gallons; highway, 25 mpg; city, 17 mpg.
WHY DIG IT: If power and performance, coupled with luxury and grandeur are high on your car-shopping list, the DTS should take precedence. It wins hands down.
Nitish S. Rele is an Advertising Staff Writer for The Tampa Tribune.
