2007 Cadillac XLR Platinum review

Cadillac XLR Platinum review:

An elegant tradition of hand-crafted luxury is being redefined for a new generation, as Cadillac today introduces the Platinum Series for the XLR roadster and STS and DTS sedans. The Platinum Series is a limited-edition collection of vehicles including additional elegant design touches, and continues Cadillac's reinvention of its interior styling and appointments.

Cadillac's landmark V-series extended the brand's credentials into the elite-level performance arena. Now the Platinum Series aims to do the same in the luxury direction. The vehicles were inspired by the very popular Escalade ESV Platinum that was offered between the 2004 and 2006 model years and introduced many new luxury features to the luxury SUV marketplace.

"The Platinum Series is a natural addition to the Cadillac brand, extending the luxury appeal of our products," said Cadillac General Manager Jim Taylor. "Platinum also joins the new 2007 SRX and our V-Series cars as examples of Cadillac's return to hand-crafted interiors, an important addition to the ongoing renaissance of the brand."

Cadillac's limited-edition Platinum models feature ultra-premium details such as a generous use of chrome, authentic wood and luxurious upholstery, as well as Cadillac's precision hand-crafted interiors, executed by craftsmen who cut, wrap and sew cabin components individually.

Here's a look at Cadillac's 2007 Platinum portfolio:

XLR Platinum

The XLR roadster has taken a starring role in Cadillac's new emphasis on dramatic styling and serious performance. Now the XLR Platinum maximizes the elegance of Cadillac's entry into the elite club of luxury roadsters.

XLR Platinum features exclusive 15-spoke, 18-inch wheels, with a brighter chrome finish for the grille and an exclusive Liquid Amethyst exterior color and exclusive Platinum badge.

Inside, the XLR Platinum features appointments such as authentic olive ash burl wood and a Cashmere interior color. The instrument panel "upper," and door trim feature hand cut, sewn and wrapped leather. Other cabin appointments include olive ash burl wood inserts on the steering wheel and luxurious Alcantara suede headliner, visors and pillars, and additional Platinum badging on the sill plate.

The Cadillac XLR Platinum will be available in the first quarter of 2007.