FAMILY TIES; 2005 STS snags Caddy's edgy design theme.(Brief Article)

Byline: JOHN D. STOLL

Just about the time Bimmer buyers are getting used to the looks of their 2004 5 Series, Cadillac will open the next chapter of its assault on German engineering by introducing the next-generation Seville.

Expected in showrooms late next year, the luxury midsize sedan adopts Caddy's three-letter designation as an STS and the Seville moniker goes away (DTS takes the DeVille's place in 2006 to make the changeover complete).

One GM official told us to think of the 2005 STS sedan as a stretched-out, more sophisticated CTS that will be positioned squarely against the 5 Series, much like the CTS goes after the 3 Series. It also adopts the CTS's rear-drive setup, most likely magnetic ride control from the current-generation Seville, and a sport-sedan- tuned suspension.

In addition to sharing Caddy's Sigma platform with the CTS and SRX wagon, the STS will get a version of GM's new 255-hp ...