Once one of the world’s greatest carmakers, Cadillac has seen more ups and downs over the past few decades than Apple’s stock price. However, GM’s wreath-and-crest division has made a concerted effort in recent years to reclaim its former glory. Rather than allow European and Japanese automakers to rule the luxury-brand roost, Cadillac has decided to tackle its competitors head-on. A key part of this effort is the company’s halo car, the 2009 Cadillac XLR-V.
As the ultrahigh-performance version of the XLR two-seat retractable hardtop roadster, the XLR-V serves notice to European automakers that they don’t have an exclusive hold on sexy drop tops with blistering performance. The XLR-V also boasts the requisite six-figure price of admission. Subtle hints such as 19-inch wheels, a mesh grille and quad exhaust tips clearly signal that this is no ordinary XLR. Backing up the “V” badge is a hand-built, supercharged 4.4-liter V8 that cranks out a lusty 443 horsepower, along with firmer suspension tuning and upgraded brakes.
Cadillac XLR-V
Cadillac XLR-V
Cadillac XLR-V
Cadillac XLR-V
Cadillac XLR-V
