2008 Cadillac XLR

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By  Rex Roy, Editor

2008 Cadillac XLR
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TheCarConnection.com’s convertible experts studied the latest reviews on the new 2008 Cadillac XLR to produce this conclusive review. Experts from TheCarConnection.com also drove the Cadillac XLR and its supercharged V-Series edition to add opinions and information that help you make the best shopping decision.

Likes:
- Powerful performance from standard V-8
- Effective keyless entry and starting
- Easy-to-master technology

Dislikes:
- Not as responsive as its looks suggest
- Tiny trunk
- Not as refined as it could be

The 2008 Cadillac XLR has aged well since its 2004 introduction, although it's due for a light exterior refresh for the 2009 model year. If you didn't know, Cadillac's sporty two-seat retractable hardtop roadster is based on the Chevrolet Corvette, but is defined by its own sharp-edged styling and exclusive 4.6-liter, 320-horsepower Northstar V-8 engine in standard trim.

For 2008, Cadillac has updated the XLR with a heated steering wheel and a retuned version of Magnetic Ride Control. Adaptive Forward Lighting swivels the headlamps as the vehicle corners; a head-up display, heated and cooled seats, and a DVD navigation system are among the standard equipment. GM's StabiliTrak stability control, Magnasteer power steering, and Magnetic Ride Control are also standard on all versions of the XLR. A new Alpine White Limited Edition sports a chrome grille and 18-inch chrome wheels. The returning Platinum edition wears handcrafted leather in its cabin.

Performance enthusiasts can choose the high-performance XLR-V, which packs a 443-horsepower punch from a supercharged 4.4-liter dual-overhead-cam V-8 engine and can reach 60 mph in less than five seconds. (TheCarConnection.com has a separate review of the 2008 Cadillac XLR-V.) As impressive as the V-Series XLR is, most drivers won't be disappointed with the standard 2008 Cadillac XLR.

This Cadillac roadster handles well, but it's not a Corvette. The XLR is a bit slower and also slightly less nimble, but the trade-off is well worth it, given the XLR's purpose in life is to be a luxury two-seater, not a bad-boy racer. One of the XLR's strongest traits is its outstanding MagneRide system. Explaining how it works would require an entire story of its own. Suffice it to say, this computer-controlled suspension can read the road--and the driver's input--so rapidly that it can change settings in about the time it takes for the XLR to roll three inches at 60 mph.

From the driver's seat, the 2008 XLR is comfortable, and the space feels especially airy if you specify the lighter interior tone--but GM is even better at making interiors than it was in 2004 when the XLR was new. Still, the mechanical dance performed by its folding hardtop is pure engineering magic that will stop people in their tracks so that they can take a better look.

The Bottom Line:
The 2008 Cadillac XLR still manages to turn heads with its style.

Other Choices:
If you’re interested in the 2008 Cadillac XLR, also consider:

- Mercedes SL-Class
- Lexus SC-430
- Jaguar XK
- BMW 6-Series Convertible

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is the benchmark for this class of vehicle. It may not be the fastest, the smoothest riding, or the most engaging, but it does many things well. Plus, Mercedes-Benz earned its stripes along the way, and the current SL-Class cars prove it. The retractable hardtop operates quickly. The SL is dynamically engaging, although not quite to the level of the 2008 Cadillac XLR-V, but clearly more so than the Lexus SC 430. The Jaguar XK, BMW 6-Series, and Porsche 911 all offer 2+2 seating if this is important to you, as well as canvas convertible tops.

Buying Tip:
The 2008 Cadillac XLR hasn't been a strong seller of late, and residual value is below that of the Mercedes-Benz SL. If you're smitten with the shape, be prepared to play hardball at the showroom and to hang on to the XLR for years to come.