Automotive
Toward the end of 2007, Cadillac undertook a refresh of its XLR roadster for the 2008 model year in an attempt to revitalize sales amidst a struggling automotive market affected by the global financial crisis.
The XLR had consistently fallen short of Cadillac’s sales target of 5,000 units, with figures plummeting below 2,000 units by 2007. Despite these disheartening numbers, General Motors remained committed to the retractable hard-top roadster, choosing to invest in an update rather than discontinuing the model. The 2008 refresh focused on enhancing both the exterior and interior appeal while retaining the proven Northstar V8 engine, deemed sufficient for the roadster’s sporty and luxurious character.
The exterior update followed typical Cadillac facelift trends, featuring a revised front fascia with a wide pentagonal grille between angular, corner-mounted headlights. The grille sported a refined egg-crate pattern with thinner slats, while the bumper maintained its wedge shape with fog lamps flanking a prominent air intake.
The 2008 XLR retained its key transformation feature – the ability to convert from coupe to roadster in under 30 seconds with the roof stowing behind the cabin. The update also introduced new alloy wheel options, including multi-spoke chrome designs. With the roof in place, the car achieved an impressive drag coefficient of 0.30, exceptional for its class. The rear design featured angular, stacked taillights with an arrow-like shape pointing forward above the rear quarters.
Inside, the cabin showcased a collaboration with Bvlgari, featuring Spanish eucalyptus wood trim on the center console, gear knob, center stack, and door panels. Premium French-seamed leather upholstery enhanced the luxurious atmosphere, complemented by a heated steering wheel. The instrument cluster displayed large readouts with Bvlgari branding around the speedometer, while the gauges themselves featured matte anodized aluminum faces crafted by the Italian jeweler.
Powering the 2008 XLR remained the familiar Northstar V8 engine, a 32-valve unit with variable valve timing producing 325 horsepower (321 PS). Power was delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission. The Magnetic Ride Control system, scanning the road surface 1,000 times per second, ensured both comfort and stability during high-speed maneuvers. Despite these refinements, sales failed to rebound sufficiently, leading GM to discontinue the model in 2009.
