Cadillac's Seville was known for years as a potent road car. The STS builds solidly upon that reputation, adding a stylish exterior and ample technology.

Smooth-riding and well-controlled on good pavement, the STS isn't especially troublesome on rougher patches, either. The sedan steers with a light feel, comports itself neatly on wet pavement and yields confident sensations.

Unfortunately, the ride seems worse with Magnetic Ride Control. When rolling through broken or lumpy pavement, the model equipped with all-wheel drive felt less confident.

Because the V-6 delivers plenty of zest, there's no compelling need for V-8 power. Automatic-transmission shifts can be heard, but they're typically not felt and barely noticed.