2007 Cadillac XLR-V
By: Juan G. Robbin
Superb luxury-sportiness power, performance and style.
Cadillac XLR-V Hard Top Convertible (2007)
Cadillac is serious about playing in the luxury convertible arena with its latest sporty version of the XLR: The “V” moniker is the brands’ designation for the sport division, typically being: Cars with a larger output engine, sports exhaust, suspension, hi performance brakes, bigger wheels and low profile tires.
With its sharp, angular lines, its quad exhaust and distinctive styling, the XLR-V gets noticed anywhere you arrive. Having the retractable hard top is a joy, flip the switch and let the sun shine in, all this and plus the comfort, rigidity and security of a hard top.
We also liked the crisp, precise road handling as well as the throaty exhaust sound, more so under hard acceleration. The effortless power of the 443 HP supercharged V8 is incredible, especially when overtaking slower traffic on the highway. The brakes and steering are flawless, as you get aggressive around the curves, the handling and suspension electronically adapt to the driving style.
Trunk space is very limited with the top folded, although it is useful. The interior is covered in suede and leather, with everything electric or automatic. We liked the heads up display showing speed and radio station selection right in your field of vision. There is a bit of haute-couture in each XLR-V as the speedometer and tachometer are designed by the famed fashion house of Bulgari.
We did notice the less than perfect trim, finish and plastic switch quality. There was noticeable wear to some of these items on our 8,700 mile test car. Cadillac could improve these trim items substantially most likely, with very little additional cost.
The Cadillac XLR-V, unique, distinctive and fun to drive.
The Essentials
MSRP (As tested): $100,000.00
Fuel consumption (observed): 18.5 MPG
Engine: Northstar 4.4 liter, 443 horsepower Supercharged V8
Visit: www.Cadillac.com