Cadillac is introducing the 2016 ELR which has received a plethora of hardware upgrades as well as a price cut. First things first, the capacity of the battery has grown from 16.5 kWh to 17.1 kWh which has helped increase electric range by 2 miles to 39 miles (63 km). However, the total range has actually decreased by 10 miles to 330 miles (530 km). Once you run out of battery juice, it will take around five hours to fully recharge from a 240V source.
More importantly, Cadillac’s engineers have managed to boost power by an amazing 25% which means the 2016 ELR can now develop a combined output of 233 bhp & 373 lb-ft. The added oomph has reduced the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint time by 1.6 seconds so now it takes 6.4 seconds before hitting a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h).
These performances are available if the 2016 ELR is equipped with the optional Performance Package that includes Brembo brakes, performance tires (summer-only) with 20-inch sport wheels, along with a recalibrated Continuous Damping Control system, new sport steering wheel and an updated power steering system.
Pricing kicks off at $58,495 (including U.S. federal tax credits) so it’s a lot cheaper than the old version which was available for $67,500, including the applicable discount. The 2016 ELR also gets stiffer bushings, increased front spring rates, a stiffer rear axle, revised HiPer Strut front suspension as well as a front bumper rebound spring.
As far as the interior cabin is concerned, the 2016 ELR now has three USB ports, sueded microfiber headliner, center console-mounted power-assist covered storage/cup holder, along with an eight-inch configurable instrument & driver information displays and semi-aniline full leather seating.
Source: Cadillac
