Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS) and Driver Shift Control. PAS allows the transmission to automatically determine and select the right gear when exiting a corner during aggressive driving, while DSC lets the driver manually choose gears by using the gear selector.

Other highlights include larger vented-disc Brembo brakes, bigger wheels (18 inches up front and 19 inches in back), Pirelli Eufori run-flat tires (sized 255/45 in front and 270/40 in back), quicker steering, and a performance-tuned suspension engineered on Germany's famed Nurburgring racetrack. Despite the performance focus, however, Cadillac says that the STS-V is designed to provide both fantastic handling as well as a fantastic ride quality, like the best hot-rodded German sedans.