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Acceleration
"V8s furnish punchy takeoffs--about 7 sec 0-60 mph--and good midrange power,
though automatic transmission sometimes hesitates to downshift for passing."
Value
"DTS is a bit more solid and better finished than DeVille, but is otherwise much
the same. The bigger difference is on the window sticker. DeVille's base price
range was $46,045 to $51,600 for 2005; DTS starts around $42,000, and even with
major option packages, such as the pricey luxury and performance groups, lists
for several thousand less than comparably equipped DeVilles did. And curtain
side airbags, an important safety feature standard on DTS, were unavailable on
DeVille at any price. "
Ride
"Base suspension comfortably smothers most bumps, but allows some float over
large moguls. Firmer Performance setup checks body motions with no comfort penalty
despite 18-inch wheels and lower-profile tires."
Economy
"No chance to measure yet, but should be close to recent DeVille test averages
of 14.6-16.7 mpg. Cadillac recommends 87-octane fuel."
Noise
"Modest wind noise at any speed, but coarse-surface tire thrum a bit high by
class standards. V8 audible, but subdued even at full throttle."
Comfort - Front
"Among the roomiest, most comfortable big sedans, though available bench seat
may squeeze a middle rider. Bucket seats seem all-day comfortable. Ample seat/steering-wheel
adjustments cater to most any driver, but visibility a bit restricted to right-rear,
directly aft."
Comfort - Rear
"Firm support, plenty of head and leg room, sufficient width for a middle adult.
Easy entry/exit."
Controls
"Redesigned dashboard has clear analog gauges and large, handy minor controls.
But some switch icons not obvious, others too small and/or hard to make out in
daylight. Refreshingly simple climate controls are independent of optional navigation
system, which isn't daunting but takes time to learn. Preview test cars disappointed
with minor squeaks and rattles. Workmanship acceptable otherwise, though most
import-brand rivals do better. Same for cabin materials."
Cargo Room
"Trunk swallows four golf bags and more through large, bumper-level opening.
Interior storage good."
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