2005 CADILLAC DTS 4.6L V8 4AT (275 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Cadillac decided to retire the DeVille nameplate and replaced it with the DTS in 2005, as a 2006 model year, showing a new marketing strategy.

By 2005, Cadillac already knew that its classic designed vehicles were no longer appealing to the customers. The old buyers were OK with that, but the big chunk of the premium-car segment was represented by those who were far from applying for their AARP membership cards.

Even though it was mostly a refreshed version of the DeVille, the exterior design was significantly changed. Its narrow and tall headlights featured improved lamps and a young-oriented design. Cadillac tried to make the DTS a world competitor for Mercedes-Benz and BMW, but it could hardly win on its home ground. But the car was an essential step for the brand’s evolution. At the back, the slim red strip for the third brake light and the triangular, corner-mounted taillights were new for the American luxury brand.

Inside, the DTS showed a contemporary design, with an infotainment screen placed on the center stack. Moreover, the dials and multi-function steering wheel were typical for those times premium vehicles. Definitely, it was no longer the same old, classic design that built the brand. Cadillac placed an analog watch between the center vents as a sole reminder of the old days.

Under the hood, GM installed the Northstar V8 powerplant that offered almost 300 horses in its upgraded version. Yet, it was nowhere near what the German carmakers could provide. Moreover, the four-speed automatic transmission was clearly outdated.