Cadillac Xlr problems
The Cadillac XLR is a front-engine, rear-drive, two passenger roadster manufactured and marketed by Cadillac from 2003 to 2009 across a single generation — and noted for its power retractable hardtop, Bulgari designed interior instruments, head-up display, adaptive suspension, rear-mounted transmission and near 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution. As Cadillac's flagship model, the XLR was introduced at the 2003 North American International Auto Show and began production for the 2004 model year — foreshadowed by the 1999 Evoq concept.
The Cadillac XLR, although sometimes perceived as a badge-engineered variant of the Chevrolet Corvette – also manufactured at GM's Bowling Green assembly, and with the XLR sharing its GM Y platform, hydroformed perimeter frame and composite bodywork construction technology with the Corvette — each car has unique engines, exterior body panels, and their own interiors, suspension settings; and importantly, the XLR featured a power retractable hardtop. And the XLR arrived a year ahead of its platform sharing C6 Corvette sibling.
The XLR was the first production Cadillac with radar-based adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the first to offer both heated and cooled seats.
The XLR was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2004.
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Cadillac Xlr model years
Common Cadillac Xlr problems
The Cadillac XLR is a luxury sports car that has been praised for its sleek design and powerful performance. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its issues. Here are some common problems with the Cadillac XLR based on complaints from owners:
- Top Mechanism Issues: The Cadillac XLR's retractable hardtop is one of its most distinctive features, but it can also be a source of frustration for owners. Some have reported issues with the top getting stuck or not closing properly. One owner reported that the top had gotten stuck with the trunk lid up already three times in just three weeks of ownership.
- Expensive Repairs: Many owners of the Cadillac XLR have reported that repairs can be expensive, especially when it comes to parts that are unique to the car. For example, one owner reported that the "UN-obtainium" headlights for their XLR were selling for $3500 on eBay at the time, and that replacing the front brakes and rotors was one of the few repairs they were prepared for.
- Roof Panel Delamination and Leaks: Another common issue with the Cadillac XLR is roof panel delamination and leaks. One owner reported that the panel de-lamination and the leaking front lock cylinder were major issues that required significant repairs.
Overall, while the Cadillac XLR is a luxurious and powerful car, it is not without its issues. Owners have reported problems with coolant leaks, electrical issues, top mechanism problems, expensive repairs, and roof panel delamination and leaks. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to budget accordingly for potential repairs.
Are Cadillac XLR expensive to maintain?
The average annual repair cost for a Cadillac is $783, which means it has average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Cadillac reliability include an average of 0.4 visits to a repair shop per year and a 17% probability of a repair being severe.
Why did the Cadillac XLR fail?
Reality Bites. The Cadillac XLR had a few kinks in its armor. It may have looked better than the C6 Corvette from some angles, but it was a bigger car with a less potent engine, so it was slower than the Corvette.
Does the Cadillac XLR have a Corvette engine?
The XLR was built on the same GM Y Platform as the Chevrolet Corvette, and it even came out of the same factory in Kentucky. But, and this is a big "but," Cadillac opted not to install an LS engine under the hood of their new roadster. Instead, the XLR was going to use GM's most technically complex engine.
Is the Cadillac XLR fast?
The XLR-V could accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.6 seconds according to Car and Driver's tests. The magazine also timed it at 11.3 seconds to 100 mph (160 km/h) and recorded a 13.0 second quarter mile at 110 mph (180 km/h). Its top speed was electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h).
Percentage distribution of complaints by Cadillac Xlr years
We have researched Cadillac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Cadillac Xlr cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Cadillac Xlr model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Cadillac Xlr model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Cadillac Xlr years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Cadillac Xlr car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Cadillac Xlr , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Cadillac Xlr vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xlr model years
A total of 3 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Xlr model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 79 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Cadillac Xlr . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Cadillac Xlr vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-22
- VIN: 1G6YV34A245
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The roof panel that was only attached with adhesive has detached from the frame of the car. This has also caused the retractable convertible top to stop working. I have read about the roof of many of these cars flying off while driving down the road. It is only a matter of time before this poor defect causes serious injury and/ or significant property damage. I called cadillac customer service and they refused to offer any help. I recently spoke to a local body shop about getting it repaired and the estimate was upward of 1000 dollars
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-13
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Brake were dragging I came to a stop .Checked the parking brake. Then after releasing the parking brake. The car wouldn't move until I pushed the traction control button. Drove 1/2 mile stopped and again the brakes were locked up. Call [XXX] Thanx INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-20
- VIN: 1G6YV34AX45
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH in the rain, the contact heard wind coming from the area where the front roof panel was connected to the windshield. The roof panel then detached and separated from the vehicle. The contact pulled into a service station to get out of the rain. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 113,420.
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-18
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-18
- VIN: 1G6YV34A155
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Driving home and the roof came off. Didn't realize what had happened thought the seal was broken
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-03
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Will Cadillac do a recall on roof coming off as driving? Cost me $759.00 for the roof and $550.00 for the Vera the Cadillac dealer to install the roof And NO RECALL ON A $120,000.00 DOLLAR CAR I'M MAD AS HELL
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-28
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My 2005 Cadillac XLR Was Being Towed To Vera Cadillac Dealership And The Roof Flew Off The Car [XXX] Why Was This Not A Recall ? Thank You [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-24
- VIN: 1G6YV34A255
- Components: STRUCTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I broke down with a bad shifter cable so I called a tow truck 4 hr later he gets to the car, he puts on the tow truck and takes off for the Vera Cadillac dealer. AND THE ROOF BLUE OFF CAME OFF THE CAR AND BROKE And Cadillac knew they had the problem but NEVER RECALLED THEM NOW WHAT DO I DO ?
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-18
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-19
- VIN: 1g6yv34a045
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The top roof panel separated while driving on the highway, and almost struck another vehicle causing it to swerve to miss it. The vehicle then proceeded to follow me as he though I was to blame. Once I got off the highway he got out of his car an violently started screaming at me for almost causing an accident.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-17
- VIN: 1g6yv34a745
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated that fuel had begun to leak from the fuel pump without warning. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the failure and informed him that while the motor was running, the fuel would leak from the rear driver's side wheel; the leak would stop once the engine was shut off. The mechanic later discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 11E009000(Fuel System, Gasoline) which he linked to the failure. The dealer was notified and an appointment was made for a diagnostic. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 24,089.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-05
- VIN: 1G6YV34A745
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated there were strong fumes coming from the vehicle. The contact parked his vehicle in the garage and then leave it partially cracked due to the fumes. The contact changed the gas cap; however, the fumes continues. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer regarding the failure; however, it was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-29
- VIN: 1G6YV34A845
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Cadillac XLR. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud whistling sound coming inside the vehicle. The contact looked up and noticed that the sunroof glass had detached from the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and retrieved the sunroof glass. The vehicle was then towed to an auto body shop to be inspected. The contact was informed that there was a defect in the glue used to secure the sunroof to the sunroof assembly. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-23
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-14
- VIN: 1G6YV34A745
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My roof panel is separating from the roof frame of my 04 Cadillac XLR. If it come off it will cause property damage to another vehicle or death! It a GM defect that should be recall !!!! Thanks!
Cadillac Xlr 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-28
- VIN: 1g6yv34a845
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Was driving on interstate and top panel on convertible top flew off.
Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-09
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-10
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 CADILLAC XLR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE SUNROOF DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CAPITAL CADILLAC (2210 COBB PKWY SE, SMYRNA, GA 30080) BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
Cadillac Xlr 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-08
- VIN: 1G6YX36D265
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DRIVING AT 45MPH THEN THE CAR SURGED TO THE LEFT. I GOT CONTROL THEN IN SERVICE STABLE TRACTION WARNING AND TRACTION CONTROL OFF LIGHT APPEARED
Latest 5 recalls Cadillac Xlr
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Cadillac Xlr.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2008
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2006
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2007
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2005
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Model: Cadillac Xlr 2009
- Report Received Date: 2011-02-28
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
Latest negative Cadillac Xlr car reviews
Latest positive Cadillac Xlr car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2005
The car is really fun to drive and always catches people's attention on the road. I've received so many thumbs up from passersby that I've lost count! Overall, the XLR has been a reliable performer. Although I did experience a computer chip issue in the first two months, it was quickly resolved. When my car was one of the first off the line, it had brake squeal during low speed stops, but Cadillac replaced all four rotors with upgrades. It's worth noting that all subsequent cars produced have the same rotors. I did have one chip in the paint on the retractable roof, but that's been the only issue. The external trunk release was replaced, and it's important to let carwash attendants know that the trunk is powered and shouldn't be closed by hand. There's also a hidden panel that they often miss cleaning.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I spent a long time deciding whether I wanted to spend the money for this car. Strange as it may seem, I also considered the Saturn Sky which is a terrific looking car. I've owned a convertible before and knew that if I ever owned one again it would have to have a power hard top with a glass rear window. The XLR looks great and is fun to drive. Gas mileage on the highway has been far better than expected too!
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Vehicle year: 2005
I love the 2005 Cadillac XLR. It's amazing how I can change it from a hard top to a convertible at a stop light! It's an absolute pleasure to drive. However, the luggage space with the top down is practically non-existent.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Wow, it's amazing to hear that you've owned over 150 cars! It's great to hear that you think this car is the finest auto GM has ever built. It's a shame that it has been discontinued, but it's wonderful to know that it's a great collectors car.
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Vehicle year: 2005
I have previously owned Lexus products including the SC430 and I think that the Americans, specifically Cadillac, have done an excellent job with the XLR. It is more powerful, more advanced and certainly more fun to drive than the Lexus. This is remarkable considering that the Lexus is one of the best cars in the world. I believe that the XLR proves that American automakers can, when they want, build a car that is second to none.
Are you having problems with your Cadillac Xlr?
Lavon Bernhard 2025-05-11
Vehicle year: 2008
Despite multiple attempts to repair the non-operative roof due to sensor issues, my 2006 Cadillac XLR is unfortunately experiencing engine knock. The dealer diagnosed it as inappropriate spark detonation, but even after three additional visits and a site visit by Cadillac's engineer, the issue remains unresolved. This has resulted in the car being out of service for almost a month since purchase. As an owner of a new Cadillac STS, I can confidently say that there is no comparison between the two cars. It is disappointing that Cadillac has not been able to address this issue effectively. In the future, I may consider a Mercedes-Benz SL500.
Isaac Kuhlman 2025-05-09
Vehicle year: 2007
Although the vehicle is certainly unique, those in search of a luxury sports car may find it lacking in comparison to the XK, SL, and 6xx series vehicles. In my opinion, the non-supercharged version is a bit wanting, but the supercharged version offers good performance, with its Corvette heritage being quite obvious. However, it is worth noting that the lack of any storage behind the seats can make traveling a challenge. Additionally, with the top down, storage is practically non-existent, especially when compared to the SL.
Charley O'Keefe 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2006
I noticed a few details that were missed in my Cadillac XLR. For instance, when you lift the trunk lid outside in the rain, the water drains off the forward lid and into the trunk, which can cause a damp, musty odor and wet anything inside. Additionally, the electronics on the car are quite complicated, and the owner's manual is poorly written. In case of an emergency, it can be dangerous for a passenger who is not familiar with the car to be left inside without a fob. Lastly, there is an electrical drain on the battery, which causes it to die if the car is not used for 2 or 3 days. This has happened to me three times in 18 months, requiring road service. Fortunately, most of these issues are fixable, and addressing them would make the ownership experience much more enjoyable. However, it seems that Cadillac has not yet addressed these concerns.
Jeff Simonis 2025-04-23
Vehicle year: 2006
This car is a close second to the Corvette, but unfortunately, after owning it for a year, I have spent more on repair costs than any car I've ever owned. It has been a bit of a lemon. Almost every two weeks, I was spending $800 on something to have it fixed. The extended warranty was worthless. I had to replace both window regulators, which cost $800 each, and then the transmission cable broke, which cost $400. As a single woman, the repair costs have been overwhelming, and I am struggling to keep up with the bills. However, I truly love driving this car with the top down and up.
Evert Harvey 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2005
The 2005 Cadillac XLR has impressive performance, with only a slight understeer at 130 mph. The ground effects do a great job of keeping the chassis stable on the road. The slap stick / shifter is pretty cool, especially with the HUD system and the cruise control. Speaking of which, the XLR's cruise control system is amazing - it matches the speed of the slower car ahead of you until either you switch lanes or the slower car speeds up, then your set speed on the cruise control returns to your set speed. How cool is that! The only downside is that with the top down, there is very little room in the trunk - no place for those golf clubs to go with the roof down. I have noticed that there have been a lot of folding top repairs already and misaligned rear quarter glass misfits. Also, aftermarket wheels seem to mess up the ride.