Used 2006 Cadillac XLR Consumer Reviews
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Exciting but expensive
This car is a close second to corvette but after owning a year I spent more on repair cost than any car I've ever owned.. This one is a lemon.. Almost every 2 weeks I was spending $800 on something to have it fixed.. Extended warranity was worthless. Replaced both window regulators 800 each. Then transmission cable broke $400 As a single woman repair cost has cost me my car. I can't keep up with repair bills But truly love driving this car with top down and up.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Amazed
I truly expected to have some problems with this car being limited production and a new design with complicated electronics and top but to my amazement it has been totally trouble free for 16,000 miles now with hundreds of top down cycles. I was considering a Vette when I found this, much better choice for comfort while not giving up much in handling or performance.
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $20,97740 mi away
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $26,777443 mi away
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $18,950978 mi away
Good Looking junk
Bought mine off showroom floor for 83,000 dollars to go with my vette and escalade yes I owed gm a lot, best and worst car I've ever owned, great headturner, fun to drive, ALWAYS IN SHOP, I mean ALWAYS in my 40 months of owning it was in shop 33 times from headlights to horns to rubber fading, trans, water pump, oil pump, compressor, tire gauge, throttlebody, trunk, foglights, visors, radio replaced, navigation, radiator, blown speaker, push button door entry, lights on dash blown, periscope wheel, heads up display, wiper pump, rusted tailpipes, I am not making this up be warned, stupid thing is I still liked the car?
Bought It Used, Saved Depreciation
I looked hard at the Mercedes SLK55 and the SL500. I couldn't afford the SL500 (ouch). The regular SLKs (350, 280, etc) didn't have enough horsepower to really compare. The SLK55 was almost impossible to find used with fairly low miles. Although the SLK55 is a great car, it just seemed too small for me. My daughter said "you look like an elephant riding a peanut" (referring to the short wheel base and short overall car length). Mercedes made a big deal out of their hard top retracting in 19 seconds vs. 30 seconds for the Caddy. My only trouble on the Caddy has been the computer thinking the top isn't fully locked when you hit a hard bump. That has been fixed now via some reprogramming.
Truly a beautiful boulevard cruiser!
The XLR has stunning looks inside and out. So many features. Love the retractable hardtop. With the top up, you have no idea you are in a roadster! It is so quiet. No problems with the car so far . Purchased on 7-8- 09 with 7295 miles. It is quite different from our 07 Corvette. We considered a 2010 Camaro...love the exterior looks, but inside was a disappointment (seats, dash, short windshield). Back to the XLR..CD player has awesome sound...love the cooled seats. Think this will be a collectible car. Got this like new 06 for about half of the original list. My wife says the car is "cool"!
From a Cadillac Technican's Point of Veiw
The 2005 Cadillac XLR has great perforance, with only a slight under steer at 130 mph. With the ground effects the chassis does a nice job sticking you to the road. The slap stick / shifter is pretty cool with the HUD system and the cruise control great. With this system, the XLR matches the speed of the slower car ahead of it until either you switch lanes or the slower car ahead of you speeds up, then your set speed on the cruise control returns to your set speed. How cool is that! The downfall is with the top down ther is very little room in the trunk, no place for those golf clubs to go with the roof down. I have seen a lot of folding top repairs already and miss aligned rear quarter glass misfits. Aftermarket wheels seem to mess up the ride.
Awesome
I traded a 1993 red Corvette for my 2005 Xenon Blue XLR and I have no regrets. I get whistles, thumbs up, nice color, nice car comments from people ages 16 to 75. Truly a fun car to drive and own.
A ten
i have owned over 150 autos and this car is the finest auto gm has ever built sorry it has been discontinued this is a great collectors car.
XLR - Great car - but . . . .
While a very unique vehicle - those seeking a luxury sports car will find it falls short of the XK, SL, 6xx series vehicles. It's Corvette heritage is very obvious and in the supercharged version has good performance (non-supercharged is a bit "wanting" IMHO). The lack of any type of storage behind the seats really makes this a challenge when traveling. Also with the top down - storage is practically zip - especially when compared with the SL.
I'm Lovin' It
I have had zero problems with my Cadillac XLR! It is a real head turner. Every hotel or restaurant I take it to parks it in the front. I'm a big guy and fit into it with no problems. I wish I had waited for the V-series though. In twelve months I have only seen three others on the road. There is millions of Mercedes SL500s out there, but very few of these.
Like New
Really love the car, only top does not operate properly. Have to have serviced, but under warranty.
A $75,000 Lemon
After three repairs for a non-operative roof (the sensors went bad three times) my 2006 Cadillac XLR has an engine knock. It was diagnosed by the dealer as "inappropriate spark detonation" the problem has still not been solved even after three more visits to the dealer and a "site visit" by Cadillac's engineer. The car has been out of service for nearly a month since I purchase it, with no end in sight. I also own a new Cadillac STS, and there is no comparison between the cars. It is a shame that Cadillac cannot seem to get it right. Next time, it'll be a Mercedes-Benz SL500.
2006 XLR
This is my 2nd Cadillac, 1st was 2005 CTS. The XLR is a sporty, good looking car that attracts a lot of attension. The only complant is the lack of knowledge for repairs and maintence and it's common malfunctions of computer driven systems. Also for such an expensive car the FM raido reception system is weak and some interior items are built cheaply such as visors, visor mirrors and storage compartments between seats. Other than that, the car is a great ride. Note: Watch out for the cops, they seem attracted to expensive look and don't take kindly to top down and music loud.
buy the benz
After looking for one of these since Nov 07, and reading all the reviews I bought anyway. I have had 2 weeks and its been in shop for 6 days, for heated/cooled seats, and horn. Going back tomorrow for fog lights and high beam flash. Make sure only buy certified and get vis records. These are very high maintenance cars and while they look good, they are not built like a 75k car. Buy the Benz, more money but you should actually get to drive it, instead of rental cars. Certification provides warranty, but doesn't mean they actually checked. I had not driven 2 feet after delivered certified when the above were not working. Don't feel sorry for gm or employees, they need to do job.
Great car
The Cadillac XLR is a much beter car than the Lexus SC430 that I traded in. I love the interior design, it has just the right amount of wood to vinyl to aluminum trim. This cash has much superior technology to the Lexus SC430, HUD, cruise control, FOB, magnetic ride control, and the Northstar engine technology.
XLR - LEMON
I HAVE OWNED (9) Cadillacs over the past (14) and have been extremely satisfied with each one. In February 2004 I received my dream car, only it turned out being a nightmare. The problems started at 430 miles. Lights that did not work, windows switches defective, inability to start. XLR had to be towed on a flatbed twice, back to the delarship. One of the fuel tanks had to be replaced, "check fuel cap" message continuosly on drivers information center. Less than 13 MPG on open road and highway driving. Engine misfiring, engine leaking 1/2 - 1 pint of oil everytime it was shut off. Various other electrical problems. Navigation System works about 1/3 of the time. In the shop 40 days.
Rare Fun Car
A Rare car among more common luxury convertibles on the road. Plenty of power for a 2 seater, handles well. Smooth, stable ride on highway and side roads. Comfortable, well equipped interior. A Fun car to drive, especially on warm, sunny days with the top down. Eye catching exterior is noticed wherever you travel. Be warned.....this vehicle often attracts the interest of complete strangers but I've met some great people who enjoy unique, fun automobiles like the XLR as much as I do. Buy One and Have Fun!
out too soon?
Many details were missed in my Cadillac XLR. For example, when you raise the trunk lid outside in the rain the water drains off the forward lid and into the trunk. This causes a damp, musty odor and wets anything inside. The electronics on the car are very complicated and the owner's manual is poorly written. If a passenger who is not familiar with the car is left inside without a fob, they can't get out. This is very dangerous in an emergency! There is an electrical drain on the battery. When my car not used 2 or 3 days the battery dies. This has happened 3 times in 18 months requiring road service. Most of the aforemtioned problems are fixable and would make the ownership experience much more enjoyable, but Cadillac has a deaf ear!
2 years of ownership
The car is a blast to drive and always turns heads on the road. I have lost count of the number of people giving me the thumbs up. The XLR has been a solid performer. I had one computer chip issue in the first two months, which was quickly fixed. My car was one of the first off the line, and had brake squeal with low speed stops. Cadillac replaced all four rotors with upgrades. All subsequent cars produced have the same rotors. Have had one chip in the paint on the retractable roof. External trunk release was replaced. You do have to tell the carwash guys the trunk is "powered" and you don't close it by hand. Also has a hidden panel they inevitably don't clean.
Cadillac joins the Big League
If the crisp creases of the XLR's lines get your attention right away, then the cockpit comfort and layout just reinforce the fact that Cadillac has built one seriious sports car. It has all the gizmos, and some, but all serve to enhance the driving experrience and not confuse and overtwhelm the enthusiast. It is quick of the blocks, but with finesse rather than machismo. The XLR's handling is precise and exhilerating. The retractable top is an engineering masterpice and delivers a whisper quiet interrior when up, and a head turning air in the hair thrill when stowed. Its clean lines, luxury, and power combine to deliver a grand touring roadster to compete with the best Europe has to offer.
Great Car, Little Nitpicks
Every time i walk into my garage i just stare in awe for a few seconds. With this parked next to my 2007 XKR it is a sight to see. The XLR is one of the best head turning cars period. It just looks incredible, and when you add the retractable hardtop thats reason enough to buy it. I have the regular XLR and it is quick, but one can tell it needs a little more power and desperately needs a better exhaust note. The interior is a little cramped, i'm 6 ft tall, and lacks storage. Personally i like the interior, its nice enough and is very user friendly, though it could be nicer. IT is just a great overall car.
Needs more trunk space
Wow- Car gets the looks, I wish the wood grain would not scrach so easy. Fun to drive with top down. Radio needs better antenna, but sound is great.
New Cadillac XLR 2005
The new 2005 Cadillac XLR competes easily with the Mercedes-Benz SL500 and has in my examination surppassed the it for ease of driver use. Cadillac's XLR technology integration is the best in its class. The edge in overall performance goes to the XLR. The interior luxury is on par with the SL500 with the XLR's looking more modern. Its general styling best in its class. Its comtemporary edge makes heads turn. Everyday driving is where the XLR excels with all features standard except for XM digital radio. In summary, the Cadillac XLR is sitting at the first position in luxury sports roadsters when you consider the price.
Happy owner!
My XLR has been awesome! One problem with top not a big deal. Recently in shop minor work. Got it new 2006.@ one of the best cars I have owned!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Cadillac XLR
I have previously owned Lexus products including the SC430 and I feel that the Americans, specifically Cadillac have hit the mark on the XLR. It is more powerful, more advanced and certainly more fun to dry than the Lexus. This is remarkable considering that the Lexus is one of the best cars in the world. I feel that the XLR proves that American automakers can, when they want, build a car that is second to none.
WOW!
I love my new car. It is somewhat rare and a real head turner. I moved up to it from an '06 Vette. I have had some issues with the GPS not logging in, but it should be fixed soon.
Fits like a glove, smooth and sexy
The Cadillac XLR is a fine, classic car for ladies. It has power when needed with just a touch on the gas pedal. It rides smooth and sleek. It has the look and makes a lady look good. It's sexy. It fits me like a fine, leather glove. I love the hard top. This car has plenty of trunk space for my expensive luggage for a week's trip, even in golc weather. It's technically sleek. Its speakers surround you with sound. And, a ride under the stars on a warm, summer night will knock your socks off.
My new 2006 XLR
I just purchased my first new car in my 55 years. I will update this as time passes, but I am pumped about the XLR. It is stunningly beautiful top up or down, and quick and sure on the road. I am hard pressed to understand the marginal reviews of the interior - I find the appointments commensurate for a rig in this price range. The seats adjust to dreamy perfection, the lights and overall vision are excellent. Not being a computer geek type, it is going to take some time to adapt to all the 170 voice commands the car responds to. The hands free phone was a hit with me right off, as is the free OnStar for a year, and XM radio for three months.
2006 Cadillac XLR
My Cadillac XLR has no truck room. I parked the car in Soho, NYC to see people's reaction on a Sunday afternoon. 30% of people stopped to look at the car and some took out their phone camera. It drives like a GM car, it does not have stiff handling. At high speed I want the stiffness.
My XLR
I love my XlR, it's sporty and goes very fast! Although, it has been in the shop for repairs many times! It had to have a new rear end put in, the air conditioner worked on and the speed control worked on. But all in all it's a beautiful car, not for long trips not much trunk space and really not that comfortable after 8hrs. My husband thinks the driver's seat is very uncomfortable but I don't. I feel bad that I rated the relibility of it poorly, we have had Cad. for a long time and never had much trouble. Our dealer is very nice and always has a loaner car ready for us. Maybe because it's so new we just have to get the bugs out.
2005 Cadillac XLR
My 2005 Cadillac XLR has been better than I expected in terms of being fun to drive and the build quality. I have not had any problems with it at all at all after six months of ownership. Heads turn constantly when I drive by. This car is faster than I can go, quicker than I need, and turns and brakes better than my last Porsche. My oonly problem with it, and this is a minor gripe, is that when backing out of a parking space, the roll bar partially blocks my view.
Outstanding Value
Having just purchased a 2006 Cadillac XLR Limited Edition model...it has lived up to or surpassed my expectations. It has a wonderful ride and much more storage than I would have expected. It's a true pleasure to drive. It's definitely not your Daddy's Caddy!
XLR Review
The driving and power performance of this vehicle are overwhelming. I love the way it handles and takes corners. It hugs the road. It has a luxurious interior and easy to get to controls. The hard top convertible is an eye-catcher and people always stare and comment what a beautiful car this is.
Star Black
I purchased this car in Cathedral City, CA and drove it cross country to FL. What a joy! The handling and ride were outstanding. This is my dream car, I can't even imagine anything topping it, although I am sure they will in years to come.
XLR Turns Heads
The XLR is the perfect car to cruise the boulevard and turn heads from young and old alike. We just like to drive around and watch people watch us. So many come up to us when parked that we have made new friends all up and down the east coast. It sounds like a hot rod and doesn't disappoint on performance. The car has all the luxury features one could ask for though cabin storage is really non-existant.
2006 XLR
This is the finest car I have ever owned. The styling and performance are equal to the Mercedes-Benz SL500 but about $25,000 dollars less. It should be recognized by more auto writers as a superb vehicle.
World Class Car
This car blows the BMW's that I have been driving off the road. The XLR is fast, handles great, and extremely comfortable. I also love the bold design and I have been stopped many times by admirers of the car. Taking the XLR on road trips is a joy, allowing one to enjoy both the power and comfort of the car.
First Cadillac, no surprises
Frankly, I must be naive. Thinking GM- the large bank that also makes cars- could compete with the finest autos from Lexus, BMW and Mercedes reveals a sudden lapse in judgment. Yes, the Eucalyptus wood is beautiful but the bin doors are pure Cavalier quality. Sure the design is provacative, but evidently engineer imagination must have been worn out by the time they got to the wheels. I mean do all new Cadillac shoes have to look the same? But the biggest clue to engineering misfires evidenced itself on a recent 1,200 mile trip in which the heat from the transmission tunnel fused my vitamins together in the trunk. And getting it to recognize the FOB so that I can start it is a hope/prayer.
HOW CUTE!!
I love it! It's fun to drive, and a MUCH better can that the SL500.
cadillac xlr
fun car to drive good handling good comfort need to make instructions for map and voice recg.
An Excellant Review
I had always wanted a Corvette and had been looking at Corvettes. I took my Cadillac DeVille in for service and they were asking me when I was going to trade. I told them I was wanting something different. They told me about the XLR that was coming out. When they got one in they called me to look at it and I fell in love with it. It is so much fun to drive and really turns heads. I have a second car and I don't drive it every day. I took a trip to Lafayette, LA and it was a pleasure. It is totally a sports car. I have thoroughly enjoyed this car.
Not your typical Caddiac
I love the Cadillac XLR. I have been a Cadillac gal for fifteen years and my husband is a Corvette fan. If he were alive we would have two in the garage. It has the peppy fun ride of a Corvette, but the comfort of a Cadillac.
second one
I enjoyed my first Cadillac XLR, a 2004 model, so much that traded it in for a new 2005 model! I have been a Chevrolet Corvette nut for many years (from 1965 on - and have owned several). The XLR fits better for comfort and style. Instead of the old Corvette wave, the XLR demands the ogle of admiration from those who see it on the road. There still are not very many out there.
Great Car
Great Car whoever designed it sure knew what they were doing. It is really fun to drive, and before you know it you are up to 100 miles an hour. Just going down the highway is hard without going about 70 because it doesn't seem like you are going even 30.
Cadillac XLR
My new 2005 Cadillac XLR is my second one. I purchased an early 2004 model and it was great. It turned heads and was enjoyable to drive. I had very few problems with it, considering that it was such a new model. I purchased a 2005 XLR without any reservations. From the perspective of a previous Chevrolet Corvette fanatic, this is an excellent car.
No XM radio
Bought my 2005 Cadillac XLR in November 2003. It was the fourth XLR delivered to dealership. Cadillac had not figured out where to put the XM antenna, which is now located on center of the trunk lid. I miss having XM radio, but will order it on a new 2006 XLR. This is a nice car and it is very confortable on long trips.
Excellent Car to Drive
The exterior and interior look of the Cadillac XLR "turns heads" everywhere you go. Its power and handling feel like a race car. No car make compares with the comfort of Cadillac and the interior seats, by comparison to all other two door sports cars, is unparallelled. Its strong standard features do not make you want to do add ons. This is an exceptional car - GM did this right.
Great Ride
I have owned a lot of cars but this is by far the best car I've owned. It is a great car to put the top down and hit the open road. The car is comfortable to drive and handles like a dream. I can get in and out of the car without feeling like I have to climb or roll. The car gets looks wherever I go. I can't imagine ever selling this car.
Awesome
The best vehicle I ever HAd
Cadillac XLR
Everthing I had expected is coming true as this baby boomer really wanted a fast and exciting entry level two seater. It excellent and quick to respond. The oil life seems to be okay and gas mileage okay. I have never been in a vechicle that people have given there thumbs up on the style of it.