2008 Cadillac DTS Review
The DTS is a large luxury car that replaced the DeVille in 2006. It follows the new path set by the CTS and STS, featuring a similar style and naming scheme. The DTS brings classic American luxury into the 21st century.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Cadillac DTS is everything you expect in an American luxury sedan: a big, plush interior with a beefy engine to match. However, it’s also a quite a bit more costly than others in its class, and doesn’t match the foreign competition in terms of refinement. While the DTS is a strong showing from GM, it simply doesn’t hold up against the opposition.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the DTS 3.5 stars for mechanical quality, 2.5 stars for design quality, and 4.5 stars for performance and design. Problems with the DTS include blistering paint, computer errors, flaky keyless entry and radiator leaks. It was recalled in 2006 due to power steering leaks. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
In government crash tests, the DTS earned 4.5 stars in frontal tests and 4 stars in side tests. In IIIHS tests, it earned “Good” for the front, “Acceptable” for the side, and “Poor” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags and stability control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Comfortable ride
+ Powerful engines
+ Good reliability
Cons
– Overpriced compared to some
– Unrefined interior
– Average crash test scores
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Lincoln MKZ costs over ten-thousand less, but has a V6 engine with slightly less hp. It throws in a CD changer, but lacks stability control. The Volvo S80 costs a few thousand less and includes a CD changer, but has a V6 with 40 less hp. The Chrysler 300 C costs a few thousand less and has over 60 more hp.
What Others Are Saying:
“Old-school, sinister, comfortable and sexy. Why can’t Detroit build more cars like this?” – Forbes
“Never mind the lack of interior refinement. It’s obvious Cadillac can’t be bothered to sweat the small stuff. If you clock the DTS’ price against a same sized, similarly equipped German or Japanese rival, the $41k and up Caddy will be the lowest-priced alternative, by a large margin, without incentives. So what? The DTS is not as good a car.” – The Truth About Cars
“But since the new DTS is the platform for the Presidential Limousine (with a few security modifications), I guess what’s good enough for the Commander-in-Chief is probably more than adequate for the rest of us.” – About.com
Read more about the 2008 Cadillac DTS at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.
