2004-2008 Cadillac XLR: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Cargo room
- Rear visibility
Vehicle Highlights
For 2004, a retractable-hardtop two-seater was Cadillac's new entry in the luxury-roadster field. Cadillac's last previous two-passenger convertible had been the 1989-93 Allante. The new rear-wheel-drive XLR competed with such open-roofed cars as the Lexus SC 430, Jaguar XK8, and Mercedes-Benz SL500. Though greater in wheelbase and width than those rivals, the XLR was shorter overall, lower, and slightly lighter. Its chassis structure and composite plastic body panels were similar to those used by the Chevrolet Corvette. However, XLR had its own styling inside and out, a power-retractable hardtop instead of a cloth convertible top, a suspension tuned for luxury-grade ride and handling, and a different V8 engine. That engine was Cadillac's 4.6-liter Northstar, here tuned for 320 horsepower. The sole transmission was a five-speed automatic with manual shift gate. A traction/antiskid control was standard. So was GM's Magnetic Ride Control, which automatically adjusted suspension firmness based on the road surface. Also included was adaptive cruise control, designed to maintain a set following distance. Tires were 18-inch run-flats; no spare was included. Every XLR came with heated and cooled leather seats, wood interior trim, and front side airbags designed to protect the torso and head. A 7-inch dashboard screen projected navigation and audio functions, and played entertainment DVDs (only with the transmission in Park). Also standard was Cadillac's Keyless Access, which let the driver start the car and operate the locks and trunklid without removing the keyfob from pocket or purse. Satellite radio was the only option.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Cadillac XLR Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 53 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR.
Year to Year Changes
2005 Cadillac XLR:
Except for exterior and interior trim colors, nothing changed for 2005.
2006 Cadillac XLR:
Steering-linked xenon high-intensity-discharged headlights became standard this year. Satellite radio also was standard. Cadillac introduced a new high-performance supercharged XLR-V model with a 443-horsepower V8 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and 19-inch run-flat tires. The 2006 XLR-V stickered for an even $100,000.
2007 Cadillac XLR:
All versions of Cadillac's two-seat V8 convertible got a 6-speed automatic transmission for 2007.
2008 Cadillac XLR:
The 2008 Cadillac XLR got revised suspension tuning and a new Platinum Edition option package. The new Platinum Edition option package for base models included unique interior and exterior trim.
Our road test for the 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
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.
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.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Cadillac XLR Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 53 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Cadillac XLR includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Cadillac XLR .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Dashboard lights:
A "service stability system" warning may be displayed on vehicles with tilt/telescopic steering because an electrical connector is damaged over time when the telescopic function is used. (2004-06)
Fuel gauge:
The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender and if after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2004-06)
Oil leak:
Oil leaks at the timing cover on 4.6L engines may require a gasket or a new timing cover. (2004-05)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $845 |
| Alternator | $830 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,650 |
| Brakes | $980 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $3,840 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,350 |
| Exhaust System | $1,450 |
| Radiator | $565 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $5,690 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $2,340 |
Our price chart for this generation Cadillac XLR details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| XLR | $54,000-57,000 | $50,800-53,600 | $40,500-42,800 |
| XLR-V | $65,000-69,000 | $61,800-65,600 | $48,800-51,800 |
| 2007 | |||
| XLR | $47,000-49,500 | $44,200-46,500 | $34,800-36,600 |
| XLR-V | $58,000-61,500 | $55,100-58,400 | $43,500-46,100 |
| 2006 | |||
| XLR | $41,000-43,000 | $38,100-40,000 | $29,900-31,400 |
| XLR-V | $51,000-53,500 | $47,900-50,300 | $38,300-40,100 |
| 2005 | |||
| XLR | $36,000-38,000 | $33,500-35,300 | $25,600-27,000 |
| 2004 | |||
| XLR | $31,500-33,500 | $29,300-31,200 | $22,100-23,500 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Cadillac XLR include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 105.7 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 177.7 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.3 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 50.4 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3647 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.6 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.6 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Only one powertrain is available in regular XLR coupes: a 320-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. For 2006, Cadillac launched an XLR-V edition with a supercharged 443-horsepower V8 and six-speed automatic. All versions of Cadillac's two-seat V8 convertible have a 6-speed automatic transmission for 2007.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 4.6 / 279 | 320 | 310 | 5-speed automatic: 17/25 6-speed automatic: 15/22 |
5-speed automatic: 15.9 6-speed automatic: -- |
| Supercharged dohc V8 | 4.4 / 267 | 443 | 414 | 6-speed automatic: 15/22 | 6-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Cadillac XLR include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2004-2008 Cadillac XLR directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2004 XLR:
If one of the two accelerator-pedal return springs fails and temperature is -22 to -40 degrees (F), engine may not return to idle within the required three seconds, and greater brake-pedal force would be needed to stop the vehicle.
2004 XLR:
Washers for ball stud assemblies on lower control arm of some cars could fracture; separation of control arm from its knuckle will cause a corner of the vehicle to drop, and control arm may contact the wheel, resulting in dragging action and unwanted tendency to turn.
2004-05 XLR:
One or both rear brake hydraulic lines could contact or be affected by heat from left engine exhaust manifold and left exhaust pipe; if brake fluid boils, effectiveness of rear brake system would be reduced and leakage might occur.
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