Both engines put power down to the wheels via a five-speed automatic with manual mode, a smooth-shifting transmission to
 |
| The STS's side-to-side transitional response is much better than average. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
boot. While its Acura, Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Lexus rivals now boast 6-speed automatic gearboxes, with Mercedes-Benz putting power down to the road with a class-leading seven-speed gearbox in the E500, the more gears the better for optimizing acceleration and
fuel economy, Cadillac's five-speed unit didn't make me feel like I was missing out, and the manual mode's ability to hold a given gear when called upon made snaking the car through S-curves a joy. Speaking of handling, the STS's side-to-side transitional response was much better than average, as was the car's ability to stay level to the roadway under hard braking. Stopping power is so strong because of the V8's standard 323 mm (12.7 inch) front and 320 mm (12.6 inch) rear ventilated discs all-round. Six-cylinder cars get 303 mm (11.9 inch) front and 298 mm (11.7 in.) rear ventilated discs, still sizable enough to deliver short stopping distances.
It's important to note that, in spite of the STS's athletic nature its ride isn't overly harsh. On the contrary, while firm in a Germanic way, its Magnetic Ride Control
 |
| While firm in a Germanic way, the STS's Magnetic Ride Control technology allows for superb dynamics, while delivering luxury-car comfort. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
technology allows for superb dynamics, while delivering luxury-car comfort. What does it do? Basically, Magnetic Ride Control makes adjustments to the damping levels up to 1,000 times per second via its proprietary combination of magneto-rheological (MR) fluid-based shocks, which makes sure that each tire maximizes its contact patch, enhancing overall grip. Not only is it the auto industry's fastest reacting suspension system, but Magnetic Ride Control also reduces wheel bounce, allowing an even ride that comes close to eliminating heave, pitch and roll. There's more to it than I have space to write, but suffice it to say that the STS comes equipped with one of the most sophisticated suspension systems in the world.
