2007 Cadillac XLR Review
The XLR is Cadillac’s high-performance roadster. Debuting for 2004, the XLR combines the Chevrolet Corvette’s platform with the Cadillac Northstar engine. The supercharged XLR-V debuted in 2006, and is the fastest Cadillac ever. The XLR was nominated for “North American Car of the Year” in 2004.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Cadillac XLR is both powerful and luxurious. Combining the body of a Corvette with the soul of a Cadillac, the XLR proves to be a surprisingly safe and reliable vehicle. If you’re looking to impress, it’s cheaper than a Porsche, but other luxury convertibles offer the same performance for much less.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power initial reliability data is unavailable. The XLR has been fairly trouble free, having issues with inaccurate fuel gauges, oil leaks, and damaged electrical connectors. The 2004 model was recalled three times. The first was for a slow return to idle in cold weather, the second for fracturing washers, and the third for boiling brake fluid. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test data is unavailable. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, tire-pressure monitoring, run-flat tires, parking sensors, and stability control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful
+ Full side airbags
+ Cheaper than a Porsche
Cons
- No AWD
- Costs significantly more than others in its class
- Small interior
Head-To-Head Competition:
The XLR is an excellent alternative over the Porsche 911 Carrera, as it costs $3,000 less, has a larger, more powerful engine, along with amenities such as a DVD player and CD changer. But you can get luxury and performance for much less with the Mercedes-Benz CLK 550 or the Audi S4. The CLK costs $15,000 less, has a more engine power, and a seven-speed transmission, but it lacks navigation, a DVD player, side airbags, and a CD changer. The S4 costs over $20,000 less and adds AWD, but lacks navigation, a DVD player, automatic, and gets six fewer miles to the gallon.
What Others Are Saying:
“The XLR is a fine luxury sports car for those to whom style and panache are important. While the Corvette is still the champion of American high-performance sports cars the XLR is its mighty sophisticated cousin – just the right choice to explore the Gold Coast on a summer day.” – The Auto Channel
“With chiseled exterior styling highlighted by a forceful front grille, the XLR comes with a power retractable hardtop that enables it to transform from closed coupe to open roadster in less than 30 seconds. Inside, the XLR is appropriately stylish, with a contemporary design highlighted by eucalyptus wood, aluminum accents and distinctive gauges. “ – Forbes
“But is the XLR-V worth $100,000? Cadillac has priced the car to say “Hey! Here we are!” as much as for profits. In terms of performance, the XLR-V merits its steep sticker price. Six figures is a tall order, however, for a car that lacks the cachet, history, and gorgeous interior of a Jaguar XK or a Mercedes-Benz SL. So, the answer is: Not quite. But drop in a more stylish cockpit and give it a few years-then ask us again. “ – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2007 Cadillac XLR at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.
