The last decade has been a good one for Cadillac, one that has seen major strides in terms of overall quality and new model debuts. Previously one of the world's premier automakers, the company experienced some embarrassing times in the '70s and '80s with underpowered, unreliable engines, too-severe downsizing and spotty build quality. Today's lineup is considerably stronger, however, with one entry in particular, the 2007 STS-V, showing the world that Cadillac can once again put out a world-class luxury sport sedan.

Cadillac's "V" series is the division's ultra-performance line, similar to Mercedes' "AMG" and BMW's "M." The heart of this road burner is a fully reworked version of the standard STS sedan's 4.4-liter V8. With more than half the parts unique to this application, including a stronger block and new cylinder heads, it's obvious that Cadillac didn't just slap a supercharger on a standard Northstar and call it a day. The end result is that this hand-built, force-fed V8 cranks out an astounding 469 horsepower and enables the STS-V to hit 60 mph in just 5 seconds flat.

A tweaked sport suspension, large (14-inch) Brembo brakes and big (255/45R18 front and 275/40R19 rear) tires complement the powerhouse engine nicely. Setting the STS-V apart from the regular STS are a mesh grille, a power bulge hood, an aggressive front airdam, unique wheels and a low-profile deck lid spoiler. The cabin features olive wood and aluminum accents as well as suede seat inserts.

The 2007 Cadillac STS-V is a serious contender in the rarefied realm of the super sport sedan. Though a BMW M5 is still the top pick for all-out performance enthusiasts, the STS-V counters by being a more livable daily driver than the hard-edged Bimmer. The highly capable Caddy also handily outclasses the Jaguar S-Type R and makes for a very interesting alternative to the Mercedes E63 AMG. If you're eyeing a big-bore luxury sport sedan, the STS-V is worth heavy consideration.

The 2007 Cadillac STS-V is an ultra-high-performance version of the STS luxury sport sedan. There is one fully loaded trim level. Nearly every option for the regular STS comes standard on the STS-V, including a navigation system, a sunroof, a 15-speaker Bose audio system (with satellite radio and a six-disc CD/DVD changer), xenon HID headlights, rear park assist, keyless entry/start, heated seats front and rear, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and eight-way power front seats. As this is a "V" series car, performance hardware, such as 18-inch wheels in front and 19s in back, oversized Brembo disc brakes, aerodynamic enhancements, a performance-tuned suspension, quicker steering and a limited-slip differential, is also included. There are only three options: "Thunder Gray" paint, an engine block heater and sunroof delete, the latter of which gives one a $1,200 credit.

Under the muscular hood is a supercharged 4.4-liter V8 that makes 469 hp and 439 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission that features manual-shift control. We've timed the STS-V from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 13.6 seconds, numbers more closely associated with an exotic sports car than a large luxury sedan. Braking is also strong, with a stop from 60 mph measuring just 122 feet.

Antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags are all standard, as are a tire-pressure monitor and rear park-assist system. In IIHS frontal-offset crash testing, the standard STS scored "Good," the highest rating of four.

As you might expect, overtaking slow-moving cars or trucks requires little forethought in the Cadillac STS-V. Just dip the throttle and go. Mash the pedal and the STS-V jets forward on a huge wave of supercharged torque. The car's rather large size ultimately limits its ability to hustle through corners, but make no mistake. This big sedan can unravel a twisty road, and it's fully competent in matching or exceeding the skills of most drivers. Even though body roll is minimal when the car is pressed, the STS-V still provides a Cadillac-worthy ride over the bumps and on long interstate cruises. The sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels and tires and powerful Brembo brakes all do their part to make this a very complete, well-balanced package.

Handsomely stitched seats and tasteful wood and aluminum accents give an upscale look and feel to the 2007 Cadillac STS-V, as one would expect of a $75K luxury car. Fit and finish is generally excellent, with the exception of a few lower-quality plastic trim panels and the standard-issue "mouse hair" headliner. The standard navigation system also plays DVDs through the 15-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system, while rear occupants enjoy heated seats and their own climate controls. A long wheelbase (116.4 inches) allows generous legroom for rear passengers, more than they'd find in an M5 or E63. Trunk capacity, at 13.8 cubic feet, is, a couple cubes down compared to a few rivals.