2007 Cadillac XLR-V Review discusses their top of the line.

Saturday, September 6, 2008

2007 Cadillac XLR-V Review

The XLR is Cadillac's high-performance roadster. It debuted in 2004, and combined 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 by automotive journalists.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Cadillac XLR-V is an amazing car. Combining Cadillac luxury and reliability with a powerful 443-hp engine, the XLR-V competes on a par with cars that cost $100,000 more. However, there are still alternatives in this segment for significantly less money.

What's New For 2007:

The XLR-V is unchanged. The powertrain warranty has been extended to five years or 100,000 miles. No other options or trims are available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power initial reliability data is unavailable. The XLR has been fairly trouble free, though it has had 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 Ferrari

Cons
- No AWD
- Costs significantly more than others in its class
- Small interior

Head-To-Head Competition:

The XLR-V is a great value when compared to the Ferrari 430 Spider. It costs $100,000 less, and despite having 47 fewer horses, it adds a DVD player, navigation, a CD changer, side airbags, and about six more miles to the gallon. However, you can buy a Jaguar XK R for $6,000 less, while only missing out on a DVD player and 20 more horsepower. Or you can go with the Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG, which costs $8,000 less, has a larger engine, more horsepower, and a seven-speed transmission. However, the M-B lacks navigation, side airbags, a DVD player, and a CD changer.

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-V at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.

Published on Sunday, June 10, 2007 - Email to a friend

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