One-Year Test Update: 2001 Cadillac DTS
Our 2001 Cadillac DTS has been a real performer: The DTS' upscale luxury features, safety requirements, and structural beefing may have taken its toll on the power-to-weight ratio
Photography by David Freers
It almost time to bid our long-term DTS adieu, which will be a hard thing to do. We've grown fond of its cavernous trunk that carries four golf bags with ease, and its ultra-cushy perforated leather seats make trips to Vermont with the in-laws a treat (the trip, not the in-laws). Our Caddy has been a real performer: The DTS' upscale luxury features, safety requirements, and structural beefing may have taken its toll on the power-to-weight ratio, yet the Northstar V-8 still delivers plenty of power on demand. The suspension competently soaks up most road irregularities, and it's rather sure-footed in the snow. With over 18,000 miles on the clock, the DTS is a solid performer requiring little more than regular maintenance (only a flat tire repair at $15). The Night Vision system seems cool at first, but after a while, most drivers chose not to use it. While we still think the Cadillac's as-tested price of $56,375 is steep, it's still a big car that does most of what the other premium big cars do, but for less money.
"Every time I slip into this sedan, I'm impressed with the details." --Jack Keebler