Search Consumer Guide Auto and the Web
 

2000 Cadillac DeVille Full Review
Date Published: 9/18/08
2000 Cadillac DeVille Review
Cadillac's largest car is redesigned for 2000, with new styling and a host of high-tech features, including infrared night vision. DeVille's wheelbase is 1.5 inches longer than before but its body is 2 inches shorter and 2 inches narrower. Base, DHS (DeVille High Luxury Sedan), and DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan) models are offered.

Front-wheel drive, 4-speed automatic transmission, and Cadillac's Northstar V8 return. The DTS has 300 horsepower, the others 275. Traction control and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Standard on DTS and optional elsewhere is Cadillac's StabiliTrak antiskid system, designed to selectively apply the front brakes and vary steering effort to fight skids in turns. DTS also gets Cadillac's Continuously Variable Road Sensing Suspension. All DeVilles have front side airbags with a head/chest bag for the driver; rear side torso airbags are optional. Cadillac says the new light-emitting diode (LED) taillamps illuminate faster than incandescent bulbs.

DeVille's Night Vision is an industry first. Optional on DHS and DTS, it uses infrared technology to detect heat-generating objects beyond headlight range and projects a black-and-white image onto the windshield just above hood level.

Base and DHS have a front bench seat with column shift, the DTS buckets and console shift. The base model has digital instrumentation. DHS and DTS have analog gauges, plus standard leather upholstery and lumbar-massaging front seats. Cadillac's continuously adjusting air-cell front seat cushions are a DHS/DTS option. DHS also gets a power rear-seat lumbar, power rear-window sunshade, and manual rear side widow shades. New on all models are steering-wheel audio and climate controls and separate rear-seat temperature adjustment. GM's OnStar assistance system is standard, and a satellite navigation system with touch-screen display is a new DHS/DTS option. The new Ultrasonic parking assist option gives audio and visual warnings of obstacles when backing up.
Competition
This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $33,000 Saab 9-5 to the $128,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. In the same vein, the more-expensive Lexus LS 400 continues to impress, excelling in every way except for handling.

If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series, Jaguar S-Type, or Lexus GS 300/400. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the new Cadillac DeVille or Mercedes-Benz CLK.
News
Having just been overhauled for 2000, the "traditional" Cadillac is set to carry on through 2004 without fundamental change. Though its Seville and Catera sisters will be transformed into rear-drive models by then, DeVille will reportedly stick with its front-drive format for reasons of space and more secure winter-weather handling, factors deemed important to this model's more elderly buyer group.

DeVille will make headlines for 2001, however, thanks to the addition of two new hands-free communications systems. The first is Virtual Advisor, a new standard feature combining the safety and security services of General Motors' three-button OnStar system with a voice-command function allowing drivers to make calls and handle e-mail hands-free. Basic OnStar service, including a hands-free cell phone, was already standard for DeVilles, but Virtual Advisor will carry a higher monthly fee than regular OnStar's current $15.95.

Catering to more ambitious types is a new Communiport option combining the OnStar phone and services with an onboard PC, complete with an in-dash video screen that also controls navigation, audio and phone. A Windows CE operating system provides voice command for all functions, including incoming e-mail, which is converted to synthesized speech and "read" to the driver. Communiport also comes with an infrared data link compatible with palm computers and similar devices, a CD-ROM player, digital voice recorder, and a slot for Compact Flashcard minidiscs. Available only on a factory-installed basis, Communiport will cost around $2000, not counting a required Bose audio system.
2000 Cadillac DeVille Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration Navigation system controls
Build quality Fuel economy
Entry/exit Rear visibility
Interior materials
Quietness
Passenger and cargo room
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Base DTS Class Average
7 7 6.4

Acceleration is strong in all models at about 7 seconds 0-60 mph, and there's abundant power throughout the speed range.
Fuel Economy

Base DTS Class Average
3 3 4.3

Our test DTS averaged a palatable 16.7 mpg. Cadillac recommends 91-octane fuel, but says the Northstar V8s now perform almost the same on less-expensive regular gas.
Ride Quality

Base DTS Class Average
7 7 7.5

Cadillac is trying to make DeVille appeal to a younger audience, and it shows in the 2000 models' dynamics. DeVille's comfortable ride isn't compromised, it's just more controlled.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Base DTS Class Average
5 5 5.9

The DTS easily holds its own against imported luxury sedans. And while base and DHS models aren't quite so athletic, they're still a welcome improvement over their predecessors.
Quietness

Base DTS Class Average
8 8 7.7

Extra sound-deadening wrapped around a tighter new platform filters out most wind and road noise.
Controls

Base DTS Class Average
6 6 5.5

We prefer the analog gauges to the base model's dated digital array, but neither is obstructed or illegible. Dashboard and steering wheel hold an abundance of controls and most are large and clearly labeled.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base DTS Class Average
8 9 7.6

Few sedans are more spacious or comfortable. Outboard positions have stretch-out room, but a middle rider on the front bench seat will feel squeezed.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Base DTS Class Average
9 9 6.8

There's plenty of leg and head clearance, a firm, generous cushion, and width enough for three adults. Rear temperature control and the DHS's sunshades and adjustable lumbar are useful amenities.
Cargo Room

Base DTS Class Average
6 6 4.4

Interior storage space is good, and the 4-golf-bag trunk opens at bumper level.
Value within Class

Base DTS Class Average
5 6 3.8

Spacious and powerful, this Cadillac brims with space-age gizmos and is priced below most V8 luxury rivals. Affluent younger shoppers still tend to favor imports, but DeVille's new virtues do indeed broaden its appeal.
Total Score

Base DTS Class Average
64 66 59.9
Scores for all Premium Large Cars

Low Score
50
Average Score
59
High Score
72
2000 Cadillac DeVille Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/31/2000
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Base 4-door sedan $39,895 $36,659 $720
DHS 4-door sedan $45,595 $41,874 $720
DTS 4-door sedan $45,595 $41,874 $720
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
4.6-liter dohc V8 275-horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side-airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar System (Global Positioning System, roadside assistance, emergency services), air conditioning w/tri-zone automatic climate control, variable-assist power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, split front bench seat, 8-way power front seats, front storage armrest, cupholders, rear seat trunk pass-through, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette, steering wheel radio and climate controls, trip computer, outside temperature indicator, illuminated front visor mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, power decklid release and power pull-down, remote fuel door release, rear defogger, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, map lights, automatic headlights, automatic parking brake release, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, cornering lights, load-leveling suspension, 225/60SR16 tires, alloy wheels.
DHS adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, 12-way power front seats w/lumbar massage, front and rear power lumbar adjustment, driver seat and mirror memory, power tilt and telescoping wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood shift knob, Bose AM/FM/cassette/CD player, analog instruments, tachometer, wood interior trim, rear illuminated visor mirrors, rain-sensing automatic wipers, power rear window sunshade, manual rear side sunshades.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Chrome alloy wheels.
DTS adds to DHS
Powertrain
4.6-liter dohc V8 300-horsepower engine.
Safety
StabiliTrak antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Front bucket seats, center console, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: driver seat and mirror memory, power tilt and telescoping wood and leather-wrapped steering .
Fog lights, Continuously Variable Road Sensing Suspension, 235/55HR17 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Comfort and Convenience Pkg.
Base
$1,095
$931
DTS
$695
$591
Heated front and rear seats, front seat lumbar adjustment (Base), memory driver seat and mirror, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel (DTS), trunk mat.
Safety and Security Pkg.
Base, DHS
$895
$761
DTS
$400
$340
StabiliTrak antiskid system (Base, DHS), ultrasonic rear parking assist, universal garage door opener.
Trailer Towing Provisions
Base, DHS, DTS
$110
$94
Trailer wiring harness, engine oil cooler.
Safety
Rear side-impact airbags
Base, DHS, DTS
$295
$251
Night Vision
DHS, DTS
$1,995
$1,696
Requires Safety and Security Pkg.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
DHS, DTS
$1,995
$1,696
Navigation system with Global Positioning System, LCD screen, 6-disc CD changer.
Power sunroof
Base, DHS, DTS
$1,550
$1,318
DHS deletes rear illuminated visor mirrors.
Leather upholstery
Base
$785
$667
Adaptive front seats
DHS, DTS
$995
$846
DTS requires Comfort and Convenience Pkg.
AM/FM/cassette/CD player
Base
$300
$255
Bose AM/FM/cassette/mini CD player
DHS, DTS
$300
$255
6-disc CD changer
Base, DHS, DTS
$595
$506
Wood Trim Pkg.
DTS
$595
$506
Wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood shift knob.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Special paint
Base, DHS, DTS
$650
$553
Chrome alloy wheels
Base, DTS
$795
$509
2000 Cadillac DeVille Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Cadillac DeVille 4-door sedan
Wheelbase, in. 115.3
Overall Length, in. 207.0
Overall Width, in. 74.4
Overall Height, in. 56.7
Curb Weight, lbs. 3978
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 19.1
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.5
Seating Capacity 6
Front Head Room, in. 39.1
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 43.2
Rear Head Room, in. 38.3
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 43.2
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc V8 dohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 4.6 /279 4.6 /279
Horsepower @ rpm. 275 @ 5600 300 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 300 @ 4000 295 @ 4400
Availability Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
   
4-speed automatic 17/28 17/28
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Cadillac DeVille 4-door sedan
Collision 5
Collision (HLDI) 67
Front Impact, Driver 3
Front Impact, Passenger 4
Injury 5
Injury (HLDI) 56
Side Impact, Driver 4
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 4
Theft 3
Theft (HLDI) 103
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 6/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance Unlimited/-- --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: front-wheel drive
Car Buying Resources

Trade-In Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth

Trade-In Calculator



Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer
Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.



What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn things



Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance



Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers
Sell Your Car



    Sell Your Car
Powered by: