Cadillac XLR
Cadillac
Photo: Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
Corvette-based luxury roadster (2004-2009). Northstar V8, retractable hardtop, supercharged XLR-V.
The Cadillac XLR is a two-seat luxury roadster built on the Corvette C6 platform, with a retractable hardtop and Northstar V8 power. It aimed at the Mercedes SL as a grand-touring convertible, trading the Corvette focus for Cadillac luxury and styling. The XLR-V added a supercharged Northstar V8 for genuine performance. On WhipJury, the XLR is a rare, distinctive luxury roadster, especially in supercharged V form.
XLR specifications
Northstar 4.4 liter supercharged V8 in the XLR-V (around 443 horsepower) or 4.6 liter naturally aspirated V8 in the standard car. Rear-wheel drive. Automatic. Corvette C6 platform with a retractable hardtop.
Frequently asked questions about Cadillac XLR
Is the XLR a Corvette?
It is built on the Corvette C6 platform but uses Cadillac Northstar V8 engines, a retractable hardtop, and luxury-focused styling and interior, making it a distinct grand-touring roadster rather than a rebadged Corvette.
What is the XLR-V?
The high-performance XLR, with a supercharged 4.4 liter Northstar V8 making around 443 horsepower, giving it genuine sports-car pace.
Is the XLR reliable?
Generally acceptable, though the Northstar V8 and the complex retractable hardtop both require care. Parts for the low-volume model can be a consideration.
Is the XLR rare?
Yes. It sold in small numbers over its 2004-2009 run, and the supercharged XLR-V is rarer still.
How does the XLR compare to the Mercedes SL?
It was positioned as an American alternative to the SL, offering a hardtop convertible and V8 power, though it never matched the SL sales or prestige.
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