Introduction:
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. Traditional in its styling, it features an egg crate grille and vestiges of tailfins in its vertical LED-equipped taillights. By most accounts, the DeVille is a sophisticated American luxury car that remains true to Cadillac's heritage. Between its powerful engine, cavernous interior and multitude of high-tech vehicle systems, the DeVille offers a little bit of everything. There's more than enough room for four adults and the trunk can swallow a weekend's worth of baggage with room to spare. Compared to other cars in its price range, the interior could use some higher-quality materials, but overall it's a clean design with simple controls.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:

The DeVille is available in three models: the base DeVille, a ritzy DeVille High Luxury Sedan (DHS) and a sporty five-passenger DeVille Touring Sedan (DTS). Designed to provide an affordable entry point to DeVille ownership, the base model offers tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power front seats and one-touch windows. In terms of luxury features, the DHS is the one to get, as it nets you heated and cooled front seats, seat memory for the driver, a heated rear bench, lumbar adjustment for outboard rear passengers, a power rear sunshade, rain-sensing wipers, a Bose sound system and audio controls mounted on a wood-trimmed steering wheel. The performance-oriented DTS features a continuously variable road-sensing suspension (CVRSS) that monitors and adjusts individual shock damping according to road surface changes for maximum comfort and performance. Popular stand-alone options on the DeVille include a DVD-based navigation system and six-disc CD changer. XM Satellite Radio is also available.

Powertrains and Performance:

Even with its relatively slim and trim shape, the DeVille is still a sizable sedan, so the 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine is a welcome sight under the hood. Standard DeVilles and the DHS get a 275-horsepower version, while the sportier DTS gets upgraded to 290 hp. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models.

Safety:

On hand to maintain optimum vehicle control on the DTS (optional on the DeVille and DHS) is StabiliTrak 2.0, GM's advanced stability and traction control system. A vast array of onboard sensors can detect if the vehicle is deviating from the driver's intended path and selectively apply individual brakes to restore control. All DeVilles also include standard front side-impact airbags. Side airbags for rear passengers are optional. Should you need assistance in an emergency (or just need tickets to the basketball game), GM's OnStar communications system comes standard. The novel Night Vision head-up display option, which uses infrared imaging to help drivers see beyond the normal range of the headlights, is only available on early 2005 models. Cadillac has dropped the option as a midyear change. Rear parking sensors are also available.

Interior Design and Special Features:

Interior room is outstanding, with both five- and six-passenger models available. Front-seat passengers are coddled in sumptuous leather seats. Rear passengers are given just as much legroom as front passengers, and the trunk can hold several suitcases without a problem. The overall interior design isn't up to the standards of the DeVille's European or Japanese competition, but the majority of the controls are easy to decipher, and build quality is generally good, if not exceptional.

Driving Impressions:

Despite its considerable size and softly tuned suspension, the DeVille carries itself well. There's plenty of power on hand for quick passes, while the suspension manages to offer a compliant ride and solid handling. Road and wind noise is barely noticeable and the sheer volume of room in the cabin makes it a terrific highway cruiser.