For more than 50 years, the DeVille has been one of the most popular models sold by Cadillac. The current model was last redesigned in 2000. The car's somewhat traditional styling features an egg-shaped grille and remnants of rear fins in the vertical taillights equipped with LEDs. As Cadillac's flagship sedan, the DeVille is a refined American luxury car that remains true to Cadillac's heritage. With a powerful engine, spacious interior and a host of high-tech systems, the DeVille could be a good choice for those looking for a full-size luxury sedan. Its dimensions are perfect for taking you and three friends to the golf course. However, the DeVille's price and low-level interior design prevent us from giving it anything more than a lukewarm reception. If you're considering this market, you should also pay attention to the Lexus LS 430.
Body Models, Equipment Levels, and Options: The 2003 edition is available in three models: the base DeVille, the DeVille High Luxury Sedan (DHS), and the sporty five-passenger DeVille Touring Sedan (DTS). In terms of luxury equipment, the DHS is the most suitable option, as it includes tri-zone automatic climate control, a rear sun visor, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated front and rear seats, lumbar adjustment for outboard rear seat passengers, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls with wood trim. Cadillac also prides itself on being at the forefront of automotive technology, and the DeVille is no exception. The optional Thermal Night Vision system is the first (and only) of its kind in an automobile, allowing drivers to see objects beyond the range of ordinary headlights. Another system that uses microchips is the continuously variable suspension system (CVRSS), which is standard on the DTS. It monitors and adjusts the individual damping of each wheel according to changes in the road surface to ensure maximum comfort and efficiency. Popular stand-alone options on the DeVille include a DVD-based navigation system and a six-disc CD changer. An XM satellite radio system is also available.
Powertrains and Performance: Even with its relatively slim and clean shape, the DeVille is still a solid sedan, so the inclusion of the Northstar V8 engine is welcome. The standard DeVille and DHS get the 275-horsepower version, while the sportier DTS gets 300 horsepower. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models. Safety: To maintain optimal vehicle control, the DTS (optional on DeVille and DHS) uses StabiliTrak 2.0, GM's advanced stability and traction control system. A wide array of on-board sensors can detect vehicle drift from the driver's intended path and selectively apply individual brakes to restore control. All DeVilles also include standard front side airbags. Rear passenger side airbags are optional. If you need help in an emergency (or just need tickets to a basketball game), GM's OnStar communication system is standard equipment. Interior design and features: interior cabin space is exceptional, with five- and six-passenger models available. Front-seat passengers are accommodated in luxurious leather seats. Rear passengers have as much legroom as front passengers. If you need to carry anything, the DeVille has a huge trunk. What we don't like is the inconsistent dashboard design. Many of the interior panels creak when pressed and wobble as if they're poorly secured. In our experience, Cadillac's build quality is not up to the standards of Japanese or German luxury cars.
Driving Impressions: The DeVille is best suited for long highway trips. The 4.6-liter V8 generates more than enough power to propel this two-ton vehicle. But it's a front-wheel-drive car, so there's torque management and the car doesn't feel particularly quick from the driver's seat. When you put your foot on the accelerator or brake pedal, the DeVille's soft-tuned suspension allows for considerable sink and dive. For ordinary Cadillac owners, the driving experience is nothing out of the ordinary: It's a traditional Cadillac in every sense of the word, with an emphasis on isolated driving and numbing sensations and reactions.
