2006 Cadillac XLR: Road Test
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2006 Cadillac XLR ▼
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- MSRP: $76,480 -$97,485
- Invoice: $71,509 -$86,274
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Our road test for the 2006 Cadillac XLR includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Cadillac XLR from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Cadillac XLR, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Cadillac XLR help you decide if a 2006 Cadillac XLR is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 8.2 |
Impressive takeoff thrust supports Cadillac's 0-60 mph claims of 5.9 sec for base model, just 4.6 sec for XLR-V. Transmissions furnish crisp, almost seamless shifts to enhance muscular merging and passing power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.2 |
Test base models averaged 15.9-18.4 mpg. No opportunity yet to measure with XLR-V. Both require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.3 |
Refined and stable, even with XLR-V's firmer suspension and 19-inch tires. Tar strips, surface blemishes noticed, but generally aren't jarring. Magnetic Ride Control helps provide reassuring high-speed discipline. Impressive structural rigidity, even top down, though one test car suffered a creaking cowl over bumps.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.5 |
XLR-V corners with Corvette-style balance and grip; base model shows a touch more body lean. Precise steering imparts agile feel. Traction/antiskid control lends welcome margin of security.
QUIETNESS
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
Tightly sealed hardtop, plenty of insulation keep wind, tire noise well within reason. Normal conversation possible with top down, even at highway speeds. Rapid acceleration brings spirited V8 growl in base XLR, supercharger whine in XLR-V.
CONTROLS
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Clear array of analog gauges supplemented by head-up windshield display. Numerous switches control myriad functions, but are logically placed and not cluttered. Navigation screen required for some audio functions. 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 | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.7 |
Not expansive, but as roomy as any rival. Comfortable, supportive seats set low, so entry/exit requires minor effort and visibility slightly compromised, especially with top up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 |
Power-operated trunklid opens to 11.6-cu-ft cargo hold, 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 | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 3 | 4.5 |
Priced between the less-expensive Lexus SC430 and costlier Mercedes-Benz SL rivals, XLR need make no apology for features and performance. The XLR-V is a genuine high-performance machine, even if it doesn't quite feel like a $100,000 car. Cadillac's challenge is to convince well-heeled shoppers that any XLR is in the same league as its prestigious competition.
Total Score
| Base | XLR-V | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 53 | 51 | 48.5 |
Total Score: 52
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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