Without doubt the clean, simplistic interior design of the STS is more attractive than the over-wrought modular theme found in the little brother CTS. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Complementing the car's hushed, vault-like cabin is a decent audio unit and wonderfully comfortable seats. Leg and headroom up front is tremendously good, and surprisingly, rear seat dimensions are very generous as well, given the STS's midsize rating.

Try as I did, there was nothing I found particularly objectionable about the STS V6. Its angular styling cues and exterior wedge-shape aren't as edgy as the suit of armour cloaking the smaller and perhaps sportier Cadillac CTS. Undoubtedly the STS's clean, simplistic interior design is more attractive than the over-wrought modular theme found in its little brother.

Although a long list of equipment is available to ensure each owner drives away in the STS of his or her dream, Cadillac stocks the base car with a wealth of active and passive safety features as standard equipment. The list begins with powerful 4-wheel antilock disc brakes bolstered by Dynamic Brake Assist (DBA) and Rear Brake Proportioning (RBP). Traction control and GM's StabiliTrak stability enhancement system are present to aid in maintaining control in slippery conditions or when driver enthusiasm exceeds competence. And in the unfortunate event of a hard impact, occupants will appreciate GM's commitment to occupant protection in the

Truly, I liked the V6 powered STS a whole lot more than I anticipated. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

form of driver and front passenger dual-stage airbags, front and rear seat outboard seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and front to rear side head curtains.

I may experience separation anxiety upon returning this week's tester, as there's no built-in protection against that. Truly, I liked the V6 powered STS a whole lot more than I anticipated. It's a mature, grown-up luxury vehicle, not a bad-boy luxury sedan with a nervous twitch. And like a smooth vintage port, it suits the palate of my demographic.

Specifications (V6):

Price Range (MSRP): $55,995 - $70,150 ($41,740 - $50,125 USD)
Body Type: 4-door sedan
Layout: front engine, RWD (AWD optional on V8 model)
Engine: 255 hp, 252 lb-ft of torque, 3.6L (217 cu in), 24-valve, V6
Transmission: 5-spd automatic with manual-mode
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, DBA, RBP
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.2 / 8.8 L/100 km (16.5 - 26.7 mpg)
Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
Direct Competitors: Acura TL/RL, Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Chrysler 300, Infiniti M35, Jaguar S-Type, Lexus GS, Lincoln LS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Saab 9-5 Arc, Volvo S60/80
Web Site: www.gmcanada.com