Coming Soon

Cadillac XLR 1st Generation

2004–2009 · Y-body · convertible

The XLR launched for 2004 as Cadillac's flagship two-seat roadster, sharing the GM Y-body platform (hydroformed steel frame, composite body panels) with the Corvette of the same era. Power-folding retractable hardtop. The base XLR used the 4.6L LH2 Northstar DOHC V8 (320 hp). The XLR-V (2006-2009) used the 4.4L LC3 supercharged Northstar V8 (443 hp). Six-speed automatic in both. Built in Bowling Green, Kentucky alongside the Corvette. Production ended after the 2009 model year; total production was around 15,000 units.

Watch out: Owner reports of retractable-hardtop hydraulic and sensor failures (notoriously expensive to repair) are the defining long-term complaint. Northstar head-bolt thread issues seen on FWD Northstars are less common on this RWD application but not unheard of; supercharger snout wear has been reported on XLR-V cars.