2008 Cadillac XLR

Cadillac is primarily a luxury brand, selling quieter and higher-tech variants of Chevrolet vehicles. Its SUV line spans from compact options up to the enormous Escalade. Several boldly designed EV models have excellent range, quick acceleration, and fast charging speeds. There’s also the V-Series, a line of performance versions available for several vehicles, which can compete with the best sports sedans from Europe. Most models are available with excellent driver assistance tech, including GM’s Super Cruise. New car reliability across the brand is average. Several new models are Consumer Reports recommended for their interior quality, comfort, and fit and finish. We also recommend some of the brand’s used models.

The XLR was a luxury two-seat hardtop convertible derived from the Evoq concept car. Based on the Corvette, the Cadillac roadster is powered by a smooth Northstar V8 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. At the touch of a button, its roof folds into the trunk, but still leaves room for luggage. The interior is luxuriously appointed, but not as well built as the Eurpoean cars in the same category. While it is undeniably quick, the XLR doesn't feel as sporty to drive as the European alternatives either. However, the performance-oriented, supercharged XLR-V, added starting from 2006, solves that problem. The XLR was discontinued after the 2009 model year.