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Cadillac XLR-V - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Cadillac XLR-V is attractive and exciting to drive.  However, its performance isn't as refined as competitors.

Model Overview

The XLR-V is a performance-tuned variant of the Cadillac XLR, which amasses praise for its comfortable two-passenger cabin and head-turning exterior design -- which includes a sleek retractable hard top. Reviewers, however, report that the XLR can't match the sports performance offered by its European competitors.

While auto critics praise the XLR-V for its stronger powertrain and high-performance sports tuning, most concede that it too is outmatched by its foreign competitors -- most notably the BMW M6, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and Porsche 911. The XLR-V, reviewers note, is powerful and thrilling to drive, but it's not as refined as class leaders. Edmunds writes: "Fast, stylish and full of features, the 2009 Cadillac XLR-V is an interesting alternative to European-brand luxury roadsters. Just be aware that some competitors are more refined and involving to drive."

Sadly, General Motors -- Cadillac's parent company -- has filed for bankruptcy and decided to nix the XLR and XLR-V after the 2009 model year due to poor sales and an ailing auto industry. If, however, you're in the market for a 2009 model, buy one before November 30 and take advantage of GM's new 60-day money-back guarantee.

• "A spectacular supercharged V-8 and a chassis adapted from the Corvette gives the XLR-V the chops to compete with European thoroughbred GTs such as the Jaguar XKR and Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG. Unfortunately, the Cadillac can't quite match their refinement." -- Car and Driver
• "On paper, the XLR-V certainly meets all the criteria, with a 443-horsepower supercharged V8 engine, a sub five-second zero-to-60-mph acceleration run and a six-figure window sticker. On the road, however, the story is not so clear. That's because the XLR-V's Corvette-derived chassis does not quite deliver the polish one experiences when driving a Jaguar XK or BMW 650i." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "If a Chevrolet Corvette is too plain-Jane for you, this is the answer. Not only will it defy the imports, it has all of the same features, plus some extras. Only the Mercedes-Benz SL has a retractable hardtop, but the cost difference most assuredly favors the XLR-V. The XLR-V is a rare American sports coupe that is under-valued, yet likely to become a future classic." -- Road and Track

The Bottom Line

The Cadillac XLR-V is powerful and eye-catching, but can't match the performance dynamics of the similarly-priced BMW M6 and high-priced Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG.

Still, it if appeals to you, now is the time to act fast. Given the auto industry's ailing state and the XLR-V's cancelation, you can probably land a great deal on a '09 model. Don't worry, though, GM will still honor the warranty.

Performance Dynamics

Test drivers report that the XLR-V is a fast and thrilling performer, but its handling dynamics aren't as refined as its European counterparts.

The XLR-V features a supercharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 443 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 414 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. A six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control (DSC) for clutchless manual operation is standard. According to Cadillac, the XLR-V has a top speed of 155 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The EPA rates the XLR-V's city/highway fuel economy at 14/23 mpg.

The rear-wheel drive XLR-V features magnetically controlled speed-sensitive steering and an independent performance-tuned suspension system with Magnetic Ride Control -- which utilizes computer-controlled shock absorbers. Helping maintain composure is a StabiliTrak stability control system and all-speed traction control. Also standard are high-performance brakes with an Anti-lock Braking system. The 2009 XLR-V maintains a near-perfect 50/50 front/rear weight distribution.

• "Acceleration is awesome, yet smooth and controlled. Because the exhaust system changes during "aggressive" driving, you hear the subdued gurgle periodically - enough to remind you what's lurking within, but never annoying. Although you can sense the suspension tautness at all times, the ride is surprisingly satisfying - not tame or light, but far short of punishing. Steering control is close to unbeatable, yielding a confident and positive feel, along with quick and certain responses. Through close, quick curves, the XLR-V behaves with nearly-level cornering and predictable reactions." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "With its muscular engine and Corvette-based platform, one would expect the Cadillac XLR-V to be a strong performer. Sure enough, its ripping acceleration leaves lesser luxury roadsters behind, and its handling and braking are more than respectable. Yet its relatively uncommunicative steering leaves us cold, and its handling still isn't as sharp as what you'll find in the European competition. As such, the XLR-V is far from class-leading in the driver entertainment category." -- Edmunds
• "Corvette-like manners, a competent chassis, and right-now throttle response are let down by a lack of refinement and road noise." -- Car and Driver