New for 2016
The ELR gets a fairly thorough updating for 2016, including revisions to its powertrain that yield a 29-percent boost in horsepower and 26-percent boost in torque, retuned suspension, steering, and braking, Apple CarPlay, OnStar 4G LTE, and an available performance package. The price also gets a significant cut.
New Tech, Same DNA
The 2016 Cadillac ELR is very different from a traditional Cadillac, yet also the same. It’s a coupe with a compact footprint and an extended-range electric powertrain, but the same style, luxury, and comfortable driving experience as the Cadillac land yachts of old. For 2016, the ELR gets even better with powertrain refinements that increase both power and the responsiveness of the chassis.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2016 Cadillac ELR is offered with a single powertrain option, and it’s one of the most efficient currently available on a production car. The extended-range electric system is based on the Voltec powertrain used in the Chevrolet Volt, and allows the ELR to drive on electric power, but with a gasoline engine/generator to charge the batteries when plugging in isn’t an option.
The powertrain consists of a 1.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a T-shaped 16.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack mounted towards the rear of the car. Electric power is used to actually propel the car, while the gasoline engine serves as a generator to charge the batteries, while providing electricity when they’re depleted.
Total system output is 233 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, increases of 29 percent and 26 percent, respectively, over the 2015 model. That, along with a modified Sport mode, allows the ELR to do 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Electric-only range is estimated at 39 miles, while total range on both gasoline and electric power is 340 miles. EPA efficiency ratings haven’t been published yet, but the 2015 ELR was rated at 82 MPGe* combined on electric power, and 33 mpg combined on gasoline.*
To help drivers make the most of the available electric power, the ELR features Regen on Demand, a regenerative braking system that can be controlled using steering-wheel mounted shift paddles. For 2016, the ELR also gets new brake and steering calibration and numerous improvements to the suspension for a sportier, sharper ride.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Cadillac ELR is a two-door, 2+2 coupe. It’s available in a single trim level, and is priced starting from $65,000.**
The lone Standard trim level includes virtually every imaginable feature, including 20-inch alloy wheels, OnStar 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, heated power front seats, a heated, leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, keyless access with remote start, and other equipment.
Notable options include Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone connectivity, a Bose® 10-speaker premium audio system, choreographed LED accent lighting, and semi-aniline full leather seating.
Design
The 2016 Cadillac ELR features sleek styling virtually unchanged from the Converj concept that first wowed crowds at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. It not only embodies the “Art & Science” design theme of other Cadillacs, but also features some aerodynamic tricks that help enhance efficiency.
A flush front fascia with grille shutters and tapered corners helps air flow smoothly over the car, while an aggressively-raked windshield helps reduce turbulence and contribute to the ELR’s ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.31. At the back, sharp edges and a rear spoiler help manage airflow, while still preserving the vertical taillights that have been a Cadillac styling feature since 1948. The doors handles are also hidden in recesses to further smooth out the bodywork.
On the inside, the ELR features comfortable sport seats, high-quality cut-and-sew trim, and an active noise cancellation system that makes the cabin as quiet at highway speeds as it is at idle. Technology features include the latest version of Cadillac’s CUE (Cadillac User Experience) infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto systems for users of applicable smartphones. General Motors’ OnStar 4G LTE system is standard, with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot that can support up to seven devices.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Cadillac ELR includes anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, a rearview camera, park assist, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision alert. Adaptive cruise control is also available as an option.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Cadillac ELR proves that a car can be luxurious, powerful, and green.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact or visit us at 3Birds Template today
*EPA-estimated 37-mile all-electric range based on 82 MPGe (electric); 31 MPG city/35 highway (gas). Actual mileage may vary.
**The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment.
Image: Cadillac
