2005 Cadillac XLR: Road Test
Archived Review
2005 Cadillac XLR ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $75,835
- Invoice: $70,147
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Cadillac XLR
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2005 Cadillac XLR includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Cadillac XLR from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Cadillac XLR, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Cadillac XLR help you decide if a 2005 Cadillac XLR is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.1 |
Impressive thrust supports Cadillac's claim of 5.9 sec 0-60 mph. Thrilling response for merging and highway passing, too. Crisp, almost seamless shifts rank transmission among the best.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.4 |
Test XLRs averaged 15.9-18.4 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4 |
Refined and stable. Tar strips, surface blemishes noticed, but translate mostly as road feel, not intrusions. Magnetic Ride Control helps provide reassuring high-speed discipline. Good structural rigidity, even top down, though one test XLR suffered a creaking cowl over bumps.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.6 |
Corners with Corvette-style balance, grip, though a bit more body lean. Rear-mounted transmission helps give near 50/50 weight distribution, teams with well-calibrated steering for precision feel. Antiskid/traction control lends welcome margin of security.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 3.9 |
Tightly sealed hardtop, plenty of insulation keep wind, tire noise well within reason. Normal conversation possible up to 75 mph top down. Rapid acceleration brings spirited V8 growl.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
Clear array of analog gauges supplemented by head-up windshield display. Switches logically placed, numerous enough to control myriad functions, but not cluttered, though navigation screen required for some audio functions. Gear selection shows in head-up display only in manual-shift mode; otherwise, driver must look to floor console for transmission position. Ignition is dashboard "start" button rather than key. Old-fashioned pedal parking brake clutters driver footwell. Mix of top-quality leather, wood, aluminum gives cabin fresh, upscale ambience.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.6 |
Not expansive, but roomy as any rival. Comfortable, supportive seats set low, so entry/exit requires minor effort. Uncommanding view of surroundings, especially to rear with top up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 0 | .4 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 2 |
Power-operated trunklid opens to 11.6-cu-ft hold, large enough for two golf bags. Roof and rear glass lower into trunk, shrinking volume to 4.4 cu ft. Interior storage tight. Difficult for occupants to access small bins behind console while seated.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
Priced between the less-expensive Lexus SC430 and costlier Mercedes-Benz SL and Jaguar XK rivals, XLR need make no apology for features and performance. Cadillac's challenge is to convince well-heeled shoppers that it's in the same league as those prestige brands.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 53 | 47.8 |
Total Score: 53
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
