2006 Cadillac XLR-V Preview

The GM division's reliability record in the most recent J. D. Power and Associates study must make the execs at Mercedes-Benz shrink in embarrassment. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

And to me, having had the opportunity to test the hopped-up Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz models on the street, and regularly-tuned SL500 and XLR back-to-back at the racetrack, deciding which one to re-mortgage the farm for would be a tough decision. Resale values aside, I'd probably opt for the XLR. I like its minimalist yet edgy styling better, the best example of Cadillac's art and science design language, making the lovely SL look almost dated when both cars are sitting side-by-side, and the Cadillac's nimble balance, even in wet or icy conditions, is truly remarkable.

And maybe more important, when day-to-day commuting is in consideration, the GM division's reliability record, that must make the execs at Mercedes-Benz who have read the most recent J. D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) shrink in embarrassment, might just be the deal maker, or breaker depending which logo hangs outside the dealership in question.

The XLR's drop-top might not be as masterfully engineered, but to Cadillac's credit its interior incorporates higher quality plastic surfaces, if you can believe that, and slightly more room, while its handy remote start feature is beyond practical in colder climates.

And on that note, I've got to sit down and rethink the world as I once knew it. After all, if you'd asked me ten years ago if I would ever consider purchasing a Cadillac over a Mercedes-Benz I would have laughed you out of the room. What a difference a decade makes.

Specifications:

Price Range (estimated MSRP): $120,000 - $130,000
Body Type: 2-door convertible, composite body panels
Layout: front engine, RWD
Engine: 440 hp, 425 lb-ft of torque, 4.4L, 32-valve, DOHC supercharged V8
Transmission: 6-spd auto with manual mode
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
Acceleration (estimated 0-100 km/h): 4.9 seconds
Cargo Volume (trunk): 328 L (11.6 cu ft)
Curb Weight: 3,804 kg (1,726 lbs)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
Direct Competitors: Jaguar XKR Convertible, Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG
Web Site: www.gmcanada.com