For 1996, Cadillac fielded two models of the DeVille (DeVille and Concours). While the 1995 Concours had the Northstar engine, the standard Deville did not. That deficiency was corrected with the 1996 model so that both had the Northstar engine. As a result the performance changed dramatically.

Along with the Northstar engine came a number of other components to improve the ride, handling, and braking. Thus making the DeVille the most favorite luxury automobile especially with its spacious six-passenger interior. After a long drive (e.g., 700 km or more), you will feel as refreshed as you began.

• The Sedan DeVille used the 275-horsepower version of the 4.6-liter engine mated to the 4T80-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with viscous converter clutch. This combination replaced the formerly standard 4.9-liter V-8 and 4T60-E four-speed transmission. Sedan DeVille's new final drive ratio was 3.11:1.
• The Concours sedan again featured the 300-horsepower version of the Northstar engine also coupled to the 4T80-E transmission. Its final drive ratio was revised from 3.11:1 to 3.71:1 for improved acceleration and passing performance.
• A more powerful Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with micro-processors monitored and directed DeVille engine/transmission operations.
  • Clock speed of the PCM microprocessor was increased from 2.1 megahertz to 3.4 megahertz, which improved processing time 63 percent.
  • Memory size was increased from 64 kilobytes to 96 kilobytes per microprocessor, allowing the PCM to provide more software functionality.
  • For improved throttle response and reduced exhaust emissions, a mass air flow sensor was added.
  • This sensor continually measured the volume of air entering the engine and supplied that information to the PCM.
  • In addition, the PCM was moved from the passenger compartment to the air cleaner housing.
  • This move enhanced engine harness reliability by reducing wiring lengths and minimized the number of wires passed through the front of the dash.
• Improved design precision fuel injectors delivered precise fuel metering, which contributed to more efficient fuel control.
• Already standard equipment in the Concours, the Sedan DeVille received the Integrated Chassis Control System (ICCS) for 1996.
• The ICCS featured a steering wheel angle position sensor that read the steering angle of the vehicle and transmitted that position to the brake, traction control and Road Sensing Suspension controller units, which calibrated these systems for improved control and quicker stops.
• Optional on the 1996 DeVille was a 3,000-pound trailer towing package that included a wiring harness with oil cooler lines from the oil cooler adapter to the radiator and a radiator end tank to provide extra engine cooling when towing large loads.
• Other new standard features included
  • dual wall stainless steel exhaust manifolds with single tailpipes and a resonator provided for a quieter interior and more pleasing exhaust note
  • "Electro-motor" electronic cruise control (which replaced the previous vacuum-operated system)
  • a revised wheel design (in fine grain cast aluminum or chrome finish) that incorporated a wreath-and-crest center cap
  • Michelin XW4 P225/60R16 whitewall tires
• New standard features unique to the Concours sedan included
  • Magnasteer electromagnetic variable-assist power steering (which replaced the previous speed sensitive steering)
  • Rainsense Wiper System that automatically activated in inclement weather
  • Continuously Variable Road Sensing Suspension that was a refinement of the previous Road Sensing Suspension, which offered Improved damping for a smoother ride.
• Additionally, the Concours sedan's Delco Electronics Active Audio System could be upgraded to include a factory-installed, trunk-mounted, 2-compact disc changer.
• Also, a Cadillac-exclusive convenience feature offered in the Concours sedan was the Dual-Mode (analog and Digital) voice-activated cell phone, available in portable or non-portable package.