2008 Cadillac XLR
Based on analysis of 46 XLR reviews and test drives.
Cadillac XLR - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Cadillac XLR ranks 9 out of 9 Super Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 46 published reviews and test drives of the Cadillac XLR, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Although it's attractive and comfortable, the XLR can't match the performance dynamics of its sportier competitors. Overall, it ranks near the bottom of its class.
Critics agree that the 2008 Cadillac XLR is an attractive and solid performing sports roadster, but it can't match its competition. "Is the XLR worthy of the attention that its striking lines so easily attract? Our initial impressions were a resounding yes," says Edmunds, "but after spending the better part of a week behind the wheel, we realized that while the XLR has a look that sets it apart from the crowd, it still has a ways to go before it can match its European rivals when it comes to delivering a complete package of style, performance and refinement."
There are three trims of the XLR: base, Platinum, and the performance-oriented XLR-V.
- "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
XLR Performance - 7.5 (Good)
Test drivers find that the XLR, which is built on the Corvette's chassis, performs well and is fun to drive. "[F]or those of us who remember the super-finned Cadillacs of old, just mentioning a Cadillac in the same breath as a Corvette is mind-boggling. But there it is...and it is 'goodness gracious great balls of fire' fun to drive," writes MarketWatch. Still, in addition to a Cadillac-reported 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the XLR can't match the performance attributes of others in its class. Altogether, it ranks near the bottom in the category of performance. Continue with our full XLR Performance Review. continue
XLR Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)
Auto writers agree that the retractable hard-top XLR is a head-turner. "The dramatic wedge shape is enhanced by sharp edges and angles that reflect the new Cadillac brand look derived directly from the Evoq concept car introduced about five years ago at the Detroit Auto Show," writes The Auto Channel. The XLR's exterior design ranks near the top of its class. Continue with our full XLR Exterior Review to read about its other attractive exterior features, or go to the Cadillac XLR Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
XLR Interior - 6.5 (Mediocre)
Critics find that the XLR comfortably seats two, and features an impressive list of convenience features. Still, some reviewers feel that it lacks quality materials. "Opinions were mixed on how well the look and feel of the interior reflects the car's $75,000 price tag," writes Edmunds. "The rich color of the wood trim looks as good as anything you might find in a Lexus, but the aluminum accents aren't quite as convincing, as some of the metallic panels look more like snapped-on covers than integrated pieces of a cohesive design." XLR's interior cabin ranks near the bottom of its class. Continue with our full XLR Interior Review to learn which convenience features come standard, or check out the Cadillac XLR photo gallery. continue
XLR Safety - NA
The XLR has not yet been crash tested by the federal government, but features a wide array of active and passive safety features, including traction control and seat-mounted side-impact air bags. Continue with our full XLR Safety Review to read about its other standard safety equipment. continue
XLR Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Cadillac XLR reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Cadillac covers every 2008 XLR with a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. Continue with our full XLR Reliability Review. continue
