2005 Cadillac STS Road Test

Any concern that the new STS rides on a fluffy cushion or wallows in corners can be forever discarded. My tester was equipped

My tester was equipped with GM's optional, sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control performance suspension. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

with GM's optional, sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control performance suspension. Electrically-charged metallic particles in the shock absorbers are capable of increasing or decreasing suspension resistance up to 1,000 times per second, based on vehicle speed, road surface and cornering forces. In plain terms, the firmness of the suspension is constantly changing to maximize both ride quality and handling ability - two dynamics that couldn't be further opposed.

So does it work? I have to give Magnetic Ride Control the "thumbs up". The STS I sampled was very comfortable, although on my ride-dynamics scorecard it rode on the firm side for a set of premium luxury wheels. Having said

The amount of body lean encountered with Magnetic Ride Control is fairly minimal. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

that, under normal driving conditions bumps were easily defeated without transmitting any internal organ-shuffling harshness to the occupant area. Despite its commendable absorption rate, the Caddy's Magnetic Ride Control technology shines brightest when plunging into serpentine roads.

The high-spirited STS doesn't remain quite as flat through an apex as BMW's 545i equipped with the German automaker's Dynamic Ride Control technology, but it can certainly hold its own when the yellow line bends. The amount of body lean encountered with Magnetic Ride Control is fairly minimal, and what lean does creep in doesn't negatively affect the vehicle's stability to any significant degree.