2009 Cadillac XLR Overview
While the new 2009 Cadillac XLR roadster sees only minor updates for the 2009 model year, this classic model won’t disappoint Caddy fans, old and new. In its sixth year of production, the face-lifted 2009 Cadillac XLR takes most of its styling cues from its cousin – the new 2009 Cadillac CTS sedan. Offered in two trim levels, the high-performance XLR-V and Platinum Edition, the XLR dons new fog lights, new front and rear fascias and an updated grille – a classy departure from the previous model’s “plastic-looking” grille.
Interior updates highlight luxury, style, convenience, and comfort. The XLR enjoys revisions such as brand new leather on the upper instrument panel, an Alcantara™ headliner, a revised instrument cluster control system, a slick retractable hardtop, and integrated Bluetooth. The only other car in this class that features a retractable hardtop is the Mercedes-Benz.
Under the hood, the powerplants remain unchanged. The XLR-V retains its 443 horsepower supercharged 4.4L V8 and the Platinum trim level remains faithful to old faithful – Cadillac’s 320 horsepower 4.6L Northstar V8. With its sporty exterior, luxury interior, and quiet highway ride, the new 2009 Cadillac XLR appeals to customers looking for luxury, performance, and style all in one head-turning package.
2009 Cadillac XLR Performance
Both 2009 Cadillac XLR trim models are equipped with a rear mounted six speed automatic transmission that allows manual-style shifting. The Cadillac XLR has the ability to achieve a speed of 60 mph in 6 seconds, stopping in 118 feet with just a quick tap to the brakes. Running at top speed on the highway, not so much as a soft hum can be heard from inside the XLR, with a ride that’s nothing short of effortless -- thanks to Magnetic Ride Control shocks with split second adjustability. Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) shocks come standard with the new 2009 Cadillac XLR.
Fuel mileage estimates for the Cadillac XLR stand at 15 miles per gallon on city streets, 24 miles per gallon on the highway and 18 miles per gallon combined.
2009 Cadillac XLR Body and Interior
Wearing the Platinum badge on its exterior like a war medal, the Platinum Edition Cadillac XLR adds 15” spoke tires and expanded color options such as light platinum, goldstream, black raven, crystal red, and elektra blue, while the XLR-V sits on 18” alloy wheels, featuring colors ranging from radiant silver and gray flannel to black cherry. Black raven, crystal red, and elektra blue are also available for the XLR-V. Both models come standard with aluminum suspension pieces and composite body panels, and new side vents. Originally reserved for the XLR-V model only, both models employ the power bulge hood.
Inside the XLR, customers will enjoy real wood trim and hand-cut and stitched soft leather, eight-way powered and heated seats, keyless ignition and a BOSE music system as well as a heated steering wheel, full DVD navigation, adaptive cruise control. Xenon HID headlights, dual-zone climate control, and a heads-up display (HUD) round out the XLR’s sophisticated and luxurious interior features.
2009 Cadillac XLR Safety
The Cadillac XLR boasts a wide range of standard safety features including the usual suspects such as advanced airbag components, side-impact air bags with head and thorax protection, electronic vehicle stability control and traction control as well as tire pressure monitor, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. Trunk release, auto crash notify, traction control and an energy management feature are standard as well as auto-dimming rearview mirrors, daytime running lights, and rear parking sensors.
2009 Cadillac XLR Options
Besides a wide range of new color options, the 2009 Cadillac XLR offers a Weather Veil Package that includes distinctive split-spoke front and rear alloy chrome wheels, a custom fit vehicle cover, and a wind blocker with logoed storage bag. The Weather Veil Package also comes with a chrome wreath, lug nuts and crest cap. The WVP package adds an additional $4,590 to the Cadillac XLR price tag.
2009 Cadillac XLR Price and Value Assessment
The 2009 Cadillac XLR’s unique styling, smooth-ride, and Cadillac badge make the new caddy well worth the price tag. The XLR has a starting MSRP of $85,360 and an invoice price of $78,104. With additional features and options, the price for the Cadillac XLR tops out at around $101,530. The resale value for the 2009 Cadillac XLR is expected to be "good" based on several factors including wear on the vehicle and original options packages.
Comparable Vehicles
The 2009 Cadillac XLR may be impressive to its captive Caddy-loving audience, but the jury is still out on whether or not the new XLR is inviting enough to surpass its competitors in this rarefied class. But with it’s new and improved look and feel, at the very least the XLR offers a healthy dose of friendly competition for the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz SL550, the BMW 650i, Chevrolet Corvette convertible, and the Jaguar XK.