Exterior

Cadillac says stealth fighters inspired the XLR, which serves as "a contemporary expression of Cadillac's heritage of landmark design and advanced technology." Linear lines display hints of the marque's history. The strong grille also suggests the past, but with a modern expression. The XLR's vertical headlights are part of Cadillac's current design philosophy.

The roadster's weight distribution is virtually 50/50, helped by the rear-mounted transmission. Cadillac says the XLR's steel hydroformed frame rails couple with an aluminum cockpit structure and balsa-cored composite flooring to provide "rigidity without bulk." Run-flat tires eliminate the need for a spare tire.

Built on a 105.7-inch wheelbase, the XLR is 177.7 inches long overall. Retracting the hardtop takes less than 30 seconds. Made of aluminum and magnesium, the top structure features composite exterior panels, a heated glass back window and glass rear-quarter windows.

    See also:

    Power Reclining Seatbacks
    To adjust the seatback: Tilt the top of the control rearward to recline. Tilt the top of the control forward to raise. WARNING Sitting in a reclined position when the vehicle is in mo ...

    Exit Lighting
    The headlamps, taillamps, parking lamps, back—up lamps, and license plate lamps come on at night, or in areas with limited lighting, when a door is opened after the ignition is turned off. The dome ...

    Securing Child Restraints (Center Front Seat Position)
    WARNING A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the frontal airbags if they inflate. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. ...