2008 Cadillac XLR

NEW FOR 2008:

- Alpine White Limited Edition Model with chrome grille and 18-inch chrome wheels (limited availability)

- Improved Magnetic Ride Control system with revised shock damping

- Heated steering wheel

- Optional 18-inch chrome wheels on XLR

- Optional 19-inch chrome wheels on XLR-V

- Expanded colour choices for Platinum Edition model

- Exterior colours: Electra Blue, Crystal Red and Goldstream replace Gold Mist, Xenon Blue and Infrared; new Elektra Blue on XLR-V

For 2008, Cadillac's XLR roadster receives a few upgrades, most notably improvements to its Magnetic Ride Control system for enhanced ride and handling.

Sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Corvette, the XLR comes with a 4.6-litre Northstar V8 or as the XLR-V, with supercharged 4.4-litre Northstar V8; both engines are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. Both use a lightweight retractable roof which contains a heated glass backlight and glass rear quarter windows, and takes less than thirty seconds to complete its travel.

Features on the XLR include 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power-adjustable heated perforated leather seats with memory, fog lamps, heated mirrors with driver's side auto-dimming and passenger side auto reverse tip-down, rain-sensing wipers, power open and close trunk, aluminum and wood interior trim, garage door opener, adaptive cruise control, head-up display, keyless pushbutton start, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated leather and wood wheel, power tilt and telescopic column, cargo net, six-CD/MP3 stereo with XM Satellite Radio, DVD-based navigation system, adaptive Xenon headlamps with washers, theft-deterrent system, rear parking assist and OnStar.

The XLR-V adds 19-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, rear anti-roll bar, and leather and Alcantara suede upholstery.

With a rear-mounted transmission for almost 50/50 weight distribution, and strong but lightweight construction, the XLR is a powerful performer even in its naturally-aspirated version, with the XLR-V simply making everything better. Like the Corvette, the XLR returns impressive acceleration but is still extremely easy to drive, and will tear up the pavement or glide into the country club equally. This is a sports car for those who like their luxury.