2010 Cadillac STS Review
2010 Cadillac STS Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Nimble road feel for such a large car, all-wheel drive offered with both engines, optional Bose stereo.
Cons
- Sporty front seats might be too firm for some posteriors, some mediocre interior plastics, smallish trunk, underwhelming V8.
What’s new
Other than changing option packages into trim levels, there are no changes for the 2010 Cadillac STS.
Edmunds says
With its edgy styling, respectable performance and array of high-tech safety options, the 2010 Cadillac STS is a well-rounded luxury sedan. But although the Caddy's pricing is attractive compared to German rivals, the new Hyundai Genesis still takes top honors for value in this field.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2010 Cadillac STS V6 Luxury Sport 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$198/mo for STS V6 Luxury Sport
STS V6 Luxury Sport
vs
$219/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
Most anyone who has been a middle child knows how it must be for the 2010 Cadillac STS. Slotted between the headline-grabbing, Euro-flavored CTS and the perpetually popular, old-school land yacht DTS, the STS goes nearly unnoticed, garnering less than half the sales of its siblings. This large luxury sedan seems to have everything it needs to get attention -- crisply tailored sheet metal, strong performance, commendable handling that belies its substantial size and enough high-tech gadgets (such as a blind-zone alert system and adaptive cruise control) to keep early adopters deliriously happy.
Despite its in-the-shadows status, we've always liked the current Cadillac STS, feeling that its performance (the powerful V6 essentially makes the V8 version irrelevant), supple ride and composed handling deserve mention. The latter quality, in particular, is truly impressive, as the STS's athletic moves almost make you forget you're driving a 2-ton luxury sedan. A price tag that can be thousands lower than European rivals' doesn't hurt either, even if it's partly due to a few mediocre-grade interior plastics.
However, the competition in this segment -- already tough with the likes of the BMW 5 Series, Lexus GS and Mercedes E-Class -- is even more so this year with Hyundai's new Genesis flagship, which offers powerful V6 and V8 engines, a handsomely crafted cabin and a hard-to-resist bargain price tag. There is also Acura's all-wheel-drive RL to consider as well as the aforementioned CTS, which offers an even more sporting drive as well as a much lower price. Overall, the 2010 Cadillac STS is worth a look if you're shopping for a roomy midsize luxury sedan, but you'll definitely want to drive the competition before making a decision.
Performance & mpg
The standard engine on the 2010 Cadillac STS is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 302 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque. The optional engine choice is a 4.6-liter V8 making 320 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come only with a six-speed automatic transmission, and both can be ordered in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive guise.
In performance testing, the STS V8 reached 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Cadillac estimates put the V6 at 6.5 seconds to the same speed. Fuel mileage estimates range from 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined for the V6 to 15/24/18 mpg for the V8.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability control and a full complement of airbags are standard on every Cadillac STS. The airbags include front-seat side and full-length side curtains. There are also a number of available advanced technologies designed to prevent accidents, including lane-departure warning, a blind-zone alert system and active steering. The latter is available only on AWD V8 models, and is notable for turning the front wheels into a skid when the rear wheels lose traction. Braking is strong, with progressive pedal action and an impressively short 120-foot stopping distance from 60 mph.
In government crash tests, the STS earned four stars (out of five) for both driver and passenger in frontal tests. In side-impact tests, the STS scored four stars for front passengers and five stars for rear passengers. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the STS a rating of "Good" in frontal-offset crash tests, the highest score possible. It scored a second-best rating of "Acceptable" for side-impact protection.
Driving
Although large in size, the 2010 Cadillac STS sedan feels three-fourths its size when driven with enthusiasm -- yet it rides like a supple luxury car when you're gobbling up miles on the highway. Cadillac offers an optional Magnetic Ride Control suspension that includes Touring and Sport modes. In Touring mode, the Cadillac STS provides a cushy ride and composed handling, although the car will still dive into the turns with unwavering composure and never feels as if it's sprung too softly. In the Performance setting, the handling is a little sharper and the ride a bit stiffer, but the STS handles so well in Touring that we question the necessity for the two settings. The torquey V6 is more than ample, with acceleration that matches the V8's. Considering the higher fuel economy, the base-model STS would be our pick over the pricier V8 version.
Interior
Depending on trim level, the STS's cabin is fitted with aluminum accents and perhaps real wood trim as well. Fit and finish is solid, and luxury buyers should be pleased with this Cadillac's generally high-class ambience. Minor demerits include the use of some low-grade plastic trim pieces that put the STS at a disadvantage against the admittedly more costly European and Japanese luxury sedans. The overall design is also on the dull side compared to the classy confines of the STS's sibling, the CTS.
Controls are straightforward and easy to use, with the exception of the confounding memory-setting procedure for the driver seat, mirrors, radio and climate controls. Unlike with traditional systems, which place buttons on the door or driver seat, you must dive deep into the navigation touchscreen to set memory functions. It's frustrating and unnecessarily complicated, but at least it's something done only occasionally. The trunk is also a bit small, with 13.8 cubic feet of total capacity.
2010 Cadillac STS models
The 2010 Cadillac STS is a large luxury sedan available in five trim levels three V6s and two V8s. The V6 comes in Luxury Sport, Luxury and Premium trims, while the V8 comes in Luxury and Performance trims.
The V6 Luxury Sport comes with 17-inch wheels, leather seating, aluminum interior trim, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote keyless entry and ignition, satellite radio, an eight-speaker Bose sound system and OnStar. The V6 Luxury (yes, it's a step up from Luxury Sport) adds wood trim, front seat power lumbar supports, a CD changer, Bluetooth, driver memory settings, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers. The V6 Premium adds 18-inch wheels, upgraded braking, steering and cooling systems, limited-slip differential, automatic level control, rear spoiler, auto-dimming rearview mirror, headlight washers, auto-dimming xenon headlights, an upgraded surround-sound audio system and a navigation system.
The V8 Luxury is equipped similarly to the V6 Luxury minus the ventilated seats and plus the automatic level control. The V8 Performance is equipped similarly to the V6 Premium and adds an adaptive suspension, blind zone/lane departure alert, a sunroof, a head-up display and adaptive cruise control.
Many of the upper trim features are available on the lower trims via assorted packages. Furthermore, the two top trims (V6 Premium and V8 Performance) can also be optioned with the Platinum package or the Performance Handling package (though not both). The former features chrome wheels; a unique grille; upgraded leather seating; leather trim for the dash, doors and console; and Olive Ash wood accents. The latter adds upgraded Brembo brakes and high-performance summer tires.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#38 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Cadillac STS from 2008-2022.$456/yr
vs. $607/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.38x/yr
vs. 1.36x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).17.7%
vs. 10.5%
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 Cadillac STS.
5 star(76%)
4 star(15%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(2%)
45 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
An Underrated (V8) car that we'll miss
cadillacmike, 12/29/2011
2009 Cadillac STS 4dr Sedan (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
While the CTS is the darling sport sedan from Cadillac, the STS was a more refined car with more room, and power (with the NorthStar V8) and better egronomics with regard to the memory seat and wheel recall functions. We have both a CTS (2008 premium ed) and an STS (2009 Platinum ed), so can compare them both. We also had a 2005 CTS and two (still have 1) LT1 Fleetwood Broughams, so … we've had a few Cadillacs in recent years
Handling and performance are equal to or superior to the CTS, particularly with NorthStar & the wide 255mm 18" rear tires (CTS has 235mm front & rear) Interior room is better and the single glass sunroof is quieter.
15 speaker Bose system is very powerful and clear.
5 out of 5 stars
I fall in love everyday
KRSTS, 06/20/2010
2008 Cadillac STS 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I have owned this STS for 27 months and I love it more everyday.
It was a GM owned CPO with only 8200 miles.
This is my third Cadillac.
My others were all V8s and I do not miss the V8 at all.
The V6DI is great engine, not only for the power but the fuel mileage.
The car is very comfortable on long trips and handles like a dream.
There were a few minor issues early that were promptly … fixed by the dealer. Now I only take it in for an annual oil change and inspection. Best car I have ever owned in my 67 years.
4.25 out of 5 stars
2009 STS
Joe Torrontegui, 11/14/2010
2009 Cadillac STS 4dr Sedan (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
Car excellent driving Does not ride like my DeVille it has a hard ride compared .
4.88 out of 5 stars
Solid player
jeff sunshine, 11/10/2008
2008 Cadillac STS 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I purchased mine at the end of August when there were only V6 AWD models. I traded my V8 STS and thought I would be taking a step down. With V6 DI engine, I really do not miss the V8. So far this car is solid in all respects; handles well,comfortable, reliable, good mileage and is fast enough. In my opinion, this car favorably competes with BMW, MB and the other usual suspects but after … you negotiate your final price, there really is no comparison becuse you pay a lot less. The status of a label is unimportant to me (although a Caddy still has some clout left) and as car enthusiast, I look to the raw driving experience. STS is right there and if the V8 G8 had AWD, I would be driving that.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2010 Cadillac STS, so we've included reviews for other years of the STS since its last redesign.
2010 STS Highlights
V6 Luxury Sport
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $46,845 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $198/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.8 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the STS include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Warning
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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