What's New for the 2004 Cadillac XLR?
The new Corvette-based 2004 Cadillac XLR roadster looks to be a contender, duking it out with upper echelon luxury-sport convertibles such as the Jaguar XK8, Lexus SC 430, and Mercedes-Benz SL500. Highlights include a 320-horsepower Northstar V8 engine displacing 4.6 liters and driving the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic. The cabin is trimmed in high quality leather and real eucalyptus wood. To change from coupe to convertible, the Cadillac XLR's metal roof folds up and stows in the trunk in less than 30 seconds, just like the Mercedes-Benz SL500. Other key features include adaptive cruise control, Keyless Access ignition with push-button start, DVD navigation and entertainment system, and Magnetic Ride Control.

Advantages of the 2004 Cadillac XLR:

• Romp 'em, stomp 'em powertrain
• Quality interior materials
• Folding hardtop design
• Cutting edge feature content
• Competitive price

Objections to the 2004 Cadillac XLR:

• Cadillac brand name may not play at this price
• Less useable trunk space with top folded than Mercedes-Benz SL500

Editor's Advice:
Like the look of the 2004 Cadillac XLR? Willing to gamble on the brand's historically rapid depreciation? Then get in line, because the Cadillac XLR is likely to sell well right out of the chute. Long-term prospects are still murky. If the Cadillac XLR proves to be a hit, the brand will regain plenty of the ground it has lost over the past several decades and GM will be encouraged to build more world-class machinery like this.