Architecture and suspension

Cadillac XLR / Overview / Architecture and suspension

The story starts with the XLR's backbone, upon which the car's dynamic capabilities depend. Based on GM's new performance car architecture, this unique and patented structure comprises steel hydroformed perimeter frame rails, enclosed structural "tunnel," aluminum cockpit structure and balsa-cored composite floors. Providing rigidity without bulk, and with exceptional resistance to torsional and bending forces, this architecture is the basis for the XLR's outstanding ride and handling characteristics.

The suspension system makes the XLR a true luxury roadster with the handling qualities of a performance car. To this end, the design uses double wishbones at each corner, combined with transverse-mounted, composite leaf springs front and rear. The system is designed to maintain firm control over wheel motion, while delivering a composed and compliant ride quality. During normal driving, the chassis exhibits comfortable and confident handling characteristics; when pushed harder, the car remains stable and secure with outstanding road holding. The XLR achieves a maximum lateral G-force of more than 0.9. The XLR runs on Michelin ZP tires with advanced "run flat" technology that eliminates the need for a spare and provides outstanding overall tire performance.

    See also:

    Heated and Ventilated Seats
    Heated and Ventilated Seat Buttons Shown, Heated Seat Buttons Similar If available, the buttons are near the climate controls on the instrument panel. To operate, the ignition must be in ON/R ...

    Window Lockout
    This feature prevents the rear passenger windows from operating, except from the driver position. Press to activate the rear window locks. An indicator light will illuminate when the featu ...

    Lumbar Adjustment
    To adjust the lumbar support: Press and hold the front or rear of the control to increase or decrease lumbar support. Press and hold the top or bottom of the control to raise or lower the ...