Electronics help the driver control the DeVille in emergency maneuvers. Cadillac's StabiliTrak 2.0 skid-control system (standard on DTS, optional on DeVille and DHS) makes it nearly impossible to lose control of the DeVille. We say ''nearly,'' because nothing can save you if you break the laws of physics. However, we reached some very high thresholds in the DeVille without breaking any of nature'.

The Cadillac DeVille is a handsome, head-turning design, a combination of European and American, of contemporary and traditional. It still looks stylish and contemporary, even though it was last redesigned for the 2000 model year. Its styling distinguishes it from other cars, including other Cadillacs. It still draws approving looks and not everyone knows what it is.

DeVille was the first Cadillac to be solely designed using AutoStudio, a computer-aided design tool. Although it looks large and rich, the current DeVille is shorter than the 1999 model it replaced. Large front lighting clusters giving the DeVille a bold appearance. A grinning eggcrate grille extends between the headlights. Updated Cadillac wreath-and-crest emblems extend the classic-but-contemporary theme. For 2003, Cadillac has integrated turn-signal indicators into the side mirrors, a feature that is genuinely useful, alerting drivers alongside of you of your intention to turn or change lanes.

In profile the DeVille looks like a Cadillac. Large doors, massive body panels and expansive glass are broken only by a highlight trim piece along the lower body section. Large, full-arch wheel wells are filled by 16-inch alloy rims and Michelin all-season tires on DeVille and DHS, or 17-inch wheels and Michelin performance tires on DTS.

From the rear, the DeVille carries the traditional Cadillac ambiance, but with a far more contemporary flair. New tail lights help distinguish 2003 models. The fins of yesteryear may be gone, but those twin vertical slashes still shout Cadillac loud and clear. The tail lamps rely on Cadillac's industry-leading LED technology to light up significantly faster than normal incandescent units, giving drivers of following cars an extra fraction of a second warning, which is all it takes, in some cases, to prevent a collision. The rear turn signals are distinctive and stand out brightly when blinking.

Fast, smooth, rock solid.

The Cadillac DeVille interior is roomy, luxurious, and loaded with technology. Heated front seats and four-way power lumbar support are standard on DHS and DTS, optional on the base model.

DHS and DTS also feature power lumbar massage. Adaptive front seating ($995) on the DHS and DTS uses sensors to detect pressure points and automatically adjusts 10 individual air cells to conform to the occupant's body, changing the seat contours every 10 seconds if necessary. We see nothing wrong with relaxation while driving, so this seems like a good idea to us

The rear seat is inviting and comfortable. There is plenty of room available as you open the rear doors and climb in. Legroom seems endless. Even with the front seat at its rearmost position, the tallest of our testers could easily fit in back. Independent climate controls for rear passengers offer fan and temperature adjustments. Side-impact air bags for the rear seat are available for $295.

Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist (included in a couple of different option packages) is really slick and very well executed. When backing up, it sounds a chime as you approach a garage, a kid on a tricycle, or another parked car, or if they approach you. A small yellow lamp lights up above the rear window, where it is visible in the rear-view mirror or when looking over your shoulder. A second yellow light illuminates as you get closer. A third light comes on in red when you're in imminent danger of hitting the object. Aside from its obvious safety benefits, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assists is very useful when parking the car or maneuvering in tight locations. It's becoming a must-have feature for those of us who sometimes find parallel parking a challenge.

Standard safety features include dual-stage air bag inflators. But we feel Cadillac has taken a step backward by eliminating the height adjustment for the front-seat shoulder harnesses; the height adjustment allowed shorter drivers to wear the belts more comfortably. We wonder how many owners who have this feature are aware of its existence, however.

Another thing we didn't like is the placement of the high-beam indicator next to the digital trip odometer. Both are nearly the same blue color, making the indicator difficult to see. So it's easy to leave the high beams on by mistake, blinding other drivers. Maybe that's part of the reason we see so many Cadillacs running around with their brights on.

Cadillac's Advanced Vehicle Navigation ($1995) incorporates voice-recognition technology, so the driver can keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. A 6.5-inch touch-screen is mounted in the dashboard. The screen tilts down to load the navigation DVD. You can also insert and play an entertainment DVD while the transmission is in Park (and only while it's in Park). The system plays music CDs as well. One navigation DVD covers the entire United States and Canada. For those who want to play music CDs while the navigation system is engaged, a glove box-mounted six-CD changer is available for $595.

OnStar comes standard and includes Personal Calling, which allows drivers to initiate and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls without an additional cellular contract. The system also includes Personal Advisor, which delivers Internet-based news headlines, sports scores, stock quotes, and weather reports.

The new XM Satellite Radio lists for $295, plus a monthly subscription fee. The XM radio requires the eight-speaker Bose AM/FM/CD audio system that comes standard on DTS and DHS.

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