2009 Cadillac XLR

When Cadillac launched the XLR as a 2004 model, the two-passenger roadster gave luxury-minded shoppers a dose of performance comparable to that of Chevrolet's legendary Corvette. Inspired by Stealth fighter planes, the exterior design of this retractable hardtop combined high style with a moderately assertive nature. In contrast to the Corvette's curves, the XLR relied more on straight lines and angles to achieve its alluring presence.

New for 2009

Not since the 1989-93 Allante roadster had Cadillac buyers been presented with such a compelling—if defiantly expensive—choice. To push the performance factor higher yet, Cadillac issued a more potent supercharged "V" edition for 2006. Two versions of the two-seater are offered for 2009: a luxury-oriented XLR Platinum and the high-performance XLR-V. The "plain" XLR base model is gone. In addition to the modified model lineup, this year's XLRs gain revised interior trim and enhanced electronics.


Each model gets new front fascias, with specific upper/lower grilles for the Platinum edition and the V-Series. Front fender vents have been reworked. So have the rear fascia and fender vents. Side vents were inspired by Cadillac's Sixteen concept car, as well as the CTS sport sedan. Both models lead off with the hood that was previously exclusive to the XLR-V. The XLR Platinum features new exhaust tips.


Three new body colors are offered: Black Cherry, Gray Flannel, and Radiant Silver. Platinum editions get a new 18-inch wheel design, with chrome finish optional. Inside, suede-like Alcantara headliner material goes into the XLR-V, offered in Ebony or Cashmere color. Upper instrument panels are hand-stitched and leather-wrapped. The latest version of GM's OnStar system includes a Destination Download provision that lets directions be downloaded to the navigation system, along with eNav (powered by MapQuest) and Bluetooth wireless cell-phone connectivity.

Power Supplies

Beneath the Platinum model's hood, a 320-horsepower, 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 engine with variable valve timing develops 310 pound-feet of torque. A supercharged 4.4-liter V-8 goes into the XLR-V, cranking out 443 horsepower and 414 pound-feet. Cadillac claims the XLR-V accelerates to 60 mph in less than five seconds. Both engines mate with GM's six-speed Hydra-Matic, mounted at the rear, but the XLR-V gets a different version of the transmission. Premium fuel is required for the XLR-V and recommended for the XLR Platinum. Trouble-free transmission behavior also adds to the polished nature of this posh two-seater. Likely competitors are found among such high-end European rivals as the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and Jaguar XK, as well as the Lexus SC 430.


Cadillac claims nearly 50/50 front/rear weight distribution. Double wishbones are used at all four corners, with transverse-mounted composite leaf springs front and rear. Goodyear EMT run-flat tires are mounted, eliminating a spare tire. Last year, the XLR gained an improved Magnetic Ride Control system, which provides magnetic-fluid based real-time damping. Shock-absorber damping is accomplished at speeds approaching one millisecond. Also added were such amenities as an available heated steering wheel. Advanced technologies also include Adaptive Forward Lighting that lets the headlamps swivel in accord with the steering wheel, a head-up instrument display, and standard heated/cooled seats.