2007 Cadillac XLR: Road Test

Archived Review

2007 Cadillac XLR 

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  • MSRP: $78,335 -$97,460
  • Invoice: $73,243 -$86,252

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Our road test for the 2007 Cadillac XLR includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Cadillac XLR from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Cadillac XLR, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Cadillac XLR help you decide if a 2007 Cadillac XLR is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Base XLR-V Class Average
8 9 8.1

No opportunity yet to test base XLR with 6-speed automatic transmission. Impressive engine power supports Cadillac's 0-60 mph claims of 5.9 sec for base model, just 4.6 sec for XLR-V.

FUEL ECONOMY

Base XLR-V Class Average
4 3 4.6

No opportunity to measure. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for base, requires it for XLR-V.

RIDE QUALITY

Base XLR-V Class Average
6 6 4.5

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 8.6

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 4.5

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 6.7

Clear array of analog gauges supplemented by head-up windshield display. Numerous switches control myriad of 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 5.9

Not expansive, but as roomy as any rival. Comfortable, supportive seats set low, so entry/exit requires minor effort. Visibility slightly compromised, especially with top up.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Base XLR-V Class Average
0 0 .6

(No rear seating.)

CARGO ROOM

Base XLR-V Class Average
2 2 2.2

Power-operated trunklid opens to 11.6-cu-ft 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 5.4

Priced between the less expensive Lexus SC 430 and costlier Mercedes-Benz SL, 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 51.1

Total Score: 52

Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
43
Average Score
51
High Score
63

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