2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille: Road Test

Poised on the road, a DeVille DHS easily holds its own against imported luxury sedans, with a ride that's comfortable yet controlled. Acceleration is outstanding, as a DeVille is able to reach 60 mph in as little as 7 seconds. The refined powertrain features a smooth and responsive automatic transmission. As for gas mileage, a DTS sedan with the 300-bhp engine averaged 14.6 to 16.7 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium fuel, but regular is acceptable and does not affect performance by much. Few sedans are more spacious or comfortable than a DeVille. Front seats provide fine support and stretch-out room in outboard position, though the middle occupant of the front bench is likely to feel squeezed. Leg clearance in back ranks as limousinelike, with a firm, generous cushion that's wide enough for three adults. All doors open exceptionally wide for easy entry/exit. Whether digital or analog, gauges are unobstructed and legible. Though abundant, controls on the dashboard and steering wheel are large and clearly labeled. Outward visibility is generally good, but thick rear roof pillars hamper over-the-shoulder vision. The big trunk opens to bumper level. Cabin materials and workmanship are competitive with imported luxury cars, and notably better than other domestics. Two exceptions are the low-budget plastic in the dashboard center and crude movement of vent adjusters. Cadillac's Night Vision option is most useful in rural areas, displaying a moving image in the windshield that resembles a photographic negative. It does not interfere with normal forward vision, and can be switched off.

Value for the Money
Spacious and powerful, the DeVille is loaded with jet-age gizmos. Priced below most V8 luxury rivals, it has a markedly different appearance than DeVilles of the past, which pleases some potential buyers but may distress others. Ride and handling are on a par with the world's most prestigious luxury sedans, accompanied by energetic performance.