Rumor has it that Cadillac will be freshening the XLR for the 2009 model year.

This would likely mean the new version would appear mid-year (though it is possible it could be as late as mid-2009 if Cadillac puts the model on hiatus for a time before bringing out the new model).

Expect styling to reflect the new CTS/STS/Provoq styling language as well as a brand new, fitting for a $75k car, interior.

Also, this may mark a change from the NorthStar V-8 engines (which are expected to end production in 2010) to versions of the GM smallblock V-8 from the Corvette. This could mean a new XLR-V powered by the same 550hp supercharged LSA V-8 from the CTS-V.

More news as we get it…

Categories: News, XLR, V-Series, Rumored Models
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Consumer Reports has never been considered one of the ‘enthusiast’ press – but their recommendations are respected by a wide cross-section of the car buying public.

That said, they have just given the new CTS their rating of ‘excellent’ placing it ahead of such luxury benchmarks as the BMW 3-series (the 328i in this case) and the Mercedes C-class (C300) in their latest luxury comparison.

The Cadillac CTS now competes toe-to-toe with some of the best German and Japanese sport sedans…There are more safety features and interior amenities in the new model. Fit and finish is greatly improved, and the interior is much more pleasant than in the previous generation. – David Champion, Consumer Reports’ senior director of automotive testing

Way to go, Cadillac.

Categories: News, CTS, Awards
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