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RICH RIDES
Forward thrust is the common denominator shared by this month’s dynamic duo, EPA rated as full size. The Cadillac STS Luxury has a 14-inch advantage in overall length over the midsize Audi S5 and can more easily accommodate adults in the back seat, but both pack a V8 wallop. Both are rich in luxury and high-tech features, though they appeal to different markets because of their size. Both carry a $1,300 gas guzzler tax.
By Russ Heaps
Audi S5
 When Audi slaps an “S” in front of a number, you can count on performance to the max. In this case it’s the souped-up version of the A5 coupe. Sleek, stylish and hot to trot, this is the only coupe in Audi’s stable. The S5 comes in just one loaded trim with a base price of $52,575 when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission.
Performance and utility:
The trunk can accommodate up to 16 cubic feet of cargo.
 Deluxe Interior:
Leather covered and sporting the S5 logo on their back cushions, the front bucket seats feature fat, supportive side bolsters.
Velocity:
The 4.2-liter V8 generates 354 horsepower and is capable of launching the S5 to 60 mph from a standstill in under five seconds.
Rubber Control:
Wrapped in speed-rated rubber, the 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels mask anti-lock disc brakes with traction and stability control.
Hot Grille:
Highly stylized, the front end with its split grille and cat’s-eye head lamps takes its cue from Audi’s R8 halo sports car.
Slip Safe: Bring on the snow. Full-time all-wheel-drive is distributed to the front and rear wheels in a 40-60 split.
Cadillac STS Luxury
 Relegated to the shadow of the much ballyhooed new CTS, the STS has been substantially upgraded this year. Available in base form with a V6 for about $10,000 less, the STS Luxury rings the register at $53,855. From behind the wheel it feels smaller than it is thanks to quick steering response and a surprisingly firm suspension.
Vision Aid:
When equipped with the optional blind zone alert, a yellow warning light flashes in the rearview mirrors when a vehicle enters the driver’s blind spots.
Attractive Drive:
The optional magnetic ride suspension can be set in touring or sport mode.
 Vroom Control :
Motivating the STS Luxury from 0-60 in just over six seconds, the 4.6-liter Northstar V8 sends its 320 horsepower to the rear wheels via a manumatic six-speed automatic transmission.
Safety Sans Key:
Included in the remote keyless entry is a vehicle auto start function.
 Dynamic Seating:
The leather-covered front buckets are eight-way power adjustable and all outboard seats are heatable.
Bonus Material:
Two different option packages include a DVD-based navigation system and the upgraded Bose 5.1 surround sound system with 15 speakers.
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