Published: November 05, 2005 06:16 pm            

Expressive Cadillac DTS debuts

Cadillac’s longtime volume leader, the DeVille, takes on new life for 2006 as the DTS sedan. From its Cadillac signature exterior styling and luxurious interior to its powerful, refined ride characteristics, the new DTS represents the nameplate’s most current thinking with respect to luxury, safety and convenience technologies.

Offered in one trim level, the DTS is powered by the technologically advanced Northstar 4.6L V8 prime mover and joined to the Hydra-Matic 4T80-E four-speed automatic transmission. The Northstar engine is available in two configurations: the standard LD8 and the L37. The L37 version is a responsive, higher revving powerplant with more peak horsepower. The LD8 places more emphasis on quick launch and part-throttle response with greater peak torque.

The DTS is equipped with new front-end sheet metal, grille, fascia and standard Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps. The decklid, rear quarter, rear fascia and light emitting diode (LED) tail lamps are also new. The large Cadillac sedan strongly reflects the automaker’s trademark design with vertically shaped headlamps and tail lamps and egg-crate grille. The result is a more architectural, linear exterior style than its predecessor and a look that separates it from the competition.

On the road, the DTS delivers luxury performance buyers expect. Smooth, responsive, easy to drive and maneuver, the large Cadillac sedan is a quality experience usually found in vehicles costing thousands more.

The Cadillac DTS sedan is equipped with a host of safety and security features beginning with its body frame integral (BFI) construction; strategically engineered crumple zones in front and rear; and comprehensive use of high-strength steel. The large Cadillac has six standard airbags, including an industry-first dual depth front passenger airbag. The GM co-patented technology deploys either a small or large airbag depending upon crash severity, seat belt usage and seat position. StabiliTrak vehicle stability control system, brake assist and four-wheel disc brakes help to keep the large flagship under control.

With the vehicle’s BFI as the foundation, the DTS also features a direct-mounted, double isolated front cradle and powertrain mounting system for a smooth, quiet ride. The sedan is equipped with a four-wheel independent suspension system. Up front, MacPherson struts with side-load compensation work with a 29-mm hollow stabilizer bar, L-shaped aluminum lower control arm, and 80-mm hydraulic ride bushing with 24-mm springs. At the rear, a multi-link suspension system with coil springs employs a semi-trailing arm, 18-mm hollow stabilizer bar, 48-mm diameter trailing arm bushing and monotube shocks.

Inside the cabin. occupants are treated to an all-new sophisticated interior that incorporates a clean, sculpted contemporary design featuring genuine materials, fabrics and low-gloss, tactile surfaces. Refinements to the luxurious interior include dual-firmness seating engineered for comfort and support with an additional one-inch of seat travel; available real burl wood garnish; a lowered and more forward-positioned instrument panel for increased spaciousness; a new analog clock, soft-backed, cast urethane surfaces on the instrument panel and upper doors, and an integrated center stack design for a clean, uninterrupted appearance. Modern “white cool” cabin lighting adds to the upscale experience.

Rear seat passengers are not neglected. A cavernous rear seating area accommodates three adults easily. The armrest in the rear seat features fold-out cupholders and bin storage. The wide doors facilitate entry and exit.



2006 Cadillac DTS Specifications:

• Wheelbase: 115.6; overall length: 207.6; width: 74.8; height: 57.6 — measurements in inches.

• Engine: 4.6L V8 (LD8) — 275 hp at 5,200 rpm and 292 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; 4.6L V8 (L37) — 291 hp at 5,600 rpm and 286 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

• Transmission: four-speed electronically-controlled automatic with overdrive.

• EPA fuel economy: LD8 — 17 city/25 hwy.; L37 — 17 city, 24 hwy.

• Cargo capacity: 18.8 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front/rear head curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, dynamic rear proportioning, power programmable automatic door locks, remote keyless entry, OnStar communications system, PASS-key III theft deterrent system, engine immobilizer and automatic bi-xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps. DTS Luxury Package I adds universal home remote. DTS Luxury Package II adds StabiliTrak stability control system, brake assist, radar-based adaptive cruise control and navigation system. DTS Luxury Package III adds IntelliBeam headlamp system.

Warranty

• Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

• Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited.

• Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Cadillac DTS sedan starts from $41,195 with destination charges adding $795.

        

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