2004-2008 Cadillac XLR: Road Test

Impressive thrust supports Cadillac's claim of 5.9-second 0-60 mph acceleration. Thrilling response is also the rule for merging and highway passing. Crisp, almost seamless shifts rank the five-speed transmission among the best. Acceleration with the high-performance XLR-V is simply breathtaking, as well as utterly smooth. Expect 15 to 19 mpg overall from a regular XLR. A test example averaged 15.9 mpg, and the more potent XLR-V is sure to consume even more gasoline. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel. Ride quality is refined and stable. Tar strips and surface blemishes are noticed, but translate mostly as road feel, not intrusions. Magnetic Ride Control helps provide reassuring high-speed discipline. Despite its muscular energy, the XLR-V rides just about as comfortably as a regular model, even through somewhat harsh surfaces, transmitting no punishment to occupants. Structural rigidity is good, even top-down, though one test XLR suffered a creaking cowl over bumps. Balance and road grip are reminiscent of Corvettes, with a bit more body lean. The rear-mounted transmission helps provide near 50/50 weight distribution, teaming with well-calibrated steering for a precision feel. Traction/antiskid control lends a welcome margin of security. Here too, the XLR-V reaches further yet, behaving with practically astounding flatness and mannerly responses through rapid curves. Quietness reigns in both the XLR and XLR-V. In addition to a tightly sealed hardtop, these cars contain plenty of insulation to keep wind and tire noise well within reason. Normal conversation is possible up to 75 mph with the top down. Rapid acceleration brings a spirited V8 growl. The XLR-V's subdued exhaust gurgle is heard only occasionally. A clear array of analog gauges is supplemented by head-up windshield display. Switchgear is logically placed and numerous enough to control myriad functions, but not cluttered. However, navigation-screen access is required to change some audio settings. Gear selection shows in the head-up display only in manual-shift mode; otherwise, the driver must look to the floor console to determine transmission position. Ignition occurs with a dashboard "start" button rather than a key, and getting out means reorienting oneself from a traditional handle to a small button release on the door panel. The old-fashioned foot parking brake clutters the driver footwell. A mixture of top-quality leather, wood, and aluminum gives the cabin fresh, upscale ambience. Though not expansive, the cockpit is as roomy as any rival's. Comfortable, supportive seats are set low, so entry/exit requires minor effort. Especially with the top up, low-positioned occupants get an uncommanding view of surroundings. A power-operated trunklid opens to 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space--enough for two golf bags. The roof and rear glass lower into the trunk, shrinking that volume to 4.4 cubic feet. Interior storage is tight.

Value for the Money
Priced between less-expensive Lexus and costlier Mercedes-Benz SL500 and Jaguar XK rivals when new, XLR need make no apology in terms of features and performance. Cadillac's challenge has been to convince well-heeled shoppers that it's in the same league as those prestige brands. Adding the high-powered, high-dollar XLR-V helps send this two-seater into another realm, challenging the likes of the Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG.