Vehicle Overview

Going more than a decade without one, Cadillac added a two-passenger sports car to its lineup for 2004. Named the XLR, the retractable-hardtop coupe gave Cadillac a luxury roadster with a performance-oriented chassis and structure.

An all-new 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 went into the XLR. Cadillac promotes the "harmonious blend of technologies and materials meant to add pleasure, not complexity, to the driving experience." A long list of technical features includes a head-up display, radar-operated adaptive cruise control and General Motors' StabiliTrak electronic stability system.

Adaptive forward lighting, which improves nighttime illumination, is available on 2006 models. Wood treatment on the center console has been revised, and XM Satellite Radio with a hidden antenna is standard.

Magnetic Ride Control provides magnetic-fluid-based real-time damping. Keyless Access with push-button start permits true no-key operation. For safety's sake, the engine will not start unless the remote fob is in the car and the driver is depressing the brake pedal.

Cadillac is launching a high-performance XLR-V for 2006.
(Skip to details on the: XLR-V)

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    Under the Hood
    A 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 with variable valve timing produces 320 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 310 pounds-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. Premium fuel is recommended. The five-speed-automatic transmis ...

    Following Distance
    Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving the vehicle without a trailer. This can help to avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. ...

    Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
    In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, notify General Motors. Call 1-800-458-8006, or write: Cadillac Customer Assistance Center Cadillac Motor Car Divi ...