Cadillac XLR (05-06) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
The Cadillac XLR arrived in the UK in 2005 as part of Cadillac’s sales push into Europe. The two-seat roadster paved is aimed squarely (no pun intended) at the likes of the Mercedes SL and uses the Corvette C6 as a base but with Caddy’s Northstar 4.6-litre V8 taking care of power duties via five-speed automatic. Much like the Merc, the XLR has a folding metal roof that disappears under the boot lid, though the Cadillac’s uses up almost every last cubic inch of luggage space when folded down. The XLR tempts with its near endless list of standard equipment, but the very few brave enough to buy this left-hand drive only roadster new in the UK face a depreciation curve that more closely resembles a cliff face.
3 out of 5

Buying used

It's very rare, but the XLR remains an eye-catching car with strong appeal. There are only a handful of Cadillac dealers, but you might find one or two at US import specialists, and prices will be much more attractive than buying new. Still it's worth holding out for a car in mint condition.

3 out of 5

Selling

It shouldn't be difficult to sell at the right price - although it may take a while to find a buyer. It ticks all the boxes for performance and style, so will be interesting to American car fans or those wanting something a bit more dramatic (and cheaper) than a Mercedes-Benz SL.