Cadillac Reveals the More Powerful and Cheaper ELR

2016 Cadillac ELR (Credit: © Cadillac )

I’ll admit it, I thought that Cadillac would be content in just letting the ELR die a slow and miserable death. Instead, Cadillac decided to improve upon the slow-selling extended-range EV for the 2016 model year by bumping up its all-around performance, output and features, and installing a new grille with the newest Cadillac emblem.

The biggest and most noticeable improvement for the 2016 model year is the ELR’s output. For the new model year, the ELR’s total system power is 233 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers add up to improvements of 16 horsepower and 78 pound-feet of torque when compared to the 2014 model. This power increase results in a 6.5-second sprint to 60 mph – 1.5 seconds faster than the 2014 model – and a top speed of up to 130 mph.

Cadillac also spent some time modifying the ELR’s suspension, giving it updated HiPer front struts with higher spring rates, stiffer bushings, front damper rebound springs, an updated steering system that is more precise, and new brake hardware for shorter stopping distances. For buyers who want better performance, Cadillac is also offering a new Performance Package, which includes 20-inch summer performance tires with performance wheels, four-piston Brembo front calipers that clamp onto 13.6-inch vented rotors, 12.6-inch vented rear rotors, a recalibrated Continuous Damping Control system, and a thicker sports steering wheel.

2016 Cadillac ELR (Credit: © Cadillac )

Also new for 2016 is standard wireless phone charging and in-car Wi-Fi via a 4G LTE connection. Unfortunately, the ELR only comes with a three-month/three GB trial, so you’ll need to sign up for the service after the trial expires.

Cadillac also made its Driver Assistance systems standard ware on the 2016 ELR – they were optional in 2014. These systems include side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, Intellibeam headlamps, and lane change alert. Buyers can also opt for adaptive cruise control.

The 2016 ELR will start from $58,595 after tax credits, which is nearly $9,000 less than the 2014 ELR.

I am legitimately shocked to see Cadillac improve upon the slow-selling ELR, and I am even more shocked to do so while also dropping the price so drastically. Maybe this will inject a little life into the model.