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Design
Somewhat atypically, GM has avoided festooning its Cadillac performance lineup with oversized spoilers, exaggerated body kits, and various go-fast visual tweaks. Instead, the 2006 XLR-V is denoted by understated chrome “Supercharged” and “V” badges on the flanks, a chrome mesh grille above and below the bumper, and attractive 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels that replace the standard XLR’s 18s. The hood has a center dome making room for the supercharger while also visually imparting a sense of power. Quad chrome tailpipes are tucked in beneath the center of the rear bumper.
Like the base XLR, the V-series version exists as a two-passenger coupe with a retractable hardtop that folds into the trunk area much like the new Volvo C70 and Mercedes-Benz SLK. With a push of the button on the center console, the roof requires a leisurely 29 seconds to lower and 28 seconds to raise (not counting the four seconds it takes to power up the side windows). With the top up, the long but shallow trunk provides 11.6 cubic-feet of cargo room, though space shrinks to 4.4 cubic-feet with the top stowed.
Fine. The 2006 Cadillac XLR-V fails to impress in terms of cargo capacity. But, really, who buys a $100,000 performance convertible for weekly runs to the local megastore in search of provisions for a family of eight? Chances are, not many, so room for an overnight bag should be enough for most. If not, Cadillac salespeople have a nicely updated and spacious 2007 Escalade they’d love to see you in. But choose the ‘Slade and you’ll miss out on the XLR-V’s hand-crafted interior with soft leather and suede seats, and genuine wood applied to the steering wheel, door inserts, shift knob, and center console. Leather is stitched throughout the interior, including the roll bars, the dash, the center armrest, and the doors. Soft, matte plastics are used sparingly, and metal alloy has been added to the steering wheel spokes, the instrument panel, and the door panels. Collectively, the high-quality materials work with features like a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel and power heated seats to create a comfortable cockpit.
As with any car, there are a few detractions, including a narrow foot well necessitated by the wide powertrain tunnel, a high rear body line that results in limited visibility, and there’s still a smidge more build quality work to do. Noticed on our test car were irregular gaps around the trunk lid and headlights, welding splatter under the paint in the passenger door handle pocket, and doors that didn’t fit completely flush with the body. On a $15,000 car, these points would hardly be worth mentioning, but not when we’re talking about a $100,000 Cadillac.
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