Article and Photography Tom Strongman
Cadillac’s 2012 SRX has come a long way since the first generation was introduced in 2004. Along the way, a modern, more aerodynamic and certainly more stylish wrapper, has supplanted the boxy shape. The SRX cedes no ground to competitors from Acura, Lexus, BMW or Mercedes-Benz. I was impressed every time I slid behind the wheel.
The swift kick of the 308-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 is just what the SRX needs. Combined with tight handling, responsive throttle and a spacious and comfortable cabin, this energetic engine delivers driving pleasure.
Luxury crossover utility vehicles are more appealing than a sedan, especially for families who carry kids, sports equipment or DIY home goods. The styling has sharp creases that are part of Cadillac’s design language.
The 3.6-liter engine was butter smooth, with sharp low-end throttle response and very little vibration. The six-speed automatic transmission is an ideal partner because it keeps the engine in its optimal powerband most of the time.
The SRX is available in four trim levels, in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Prices begin at $35,185 and top out at $45,975.
The test car, from GM’s Texas press fleet, was a front-wheel drive Premium model. I would choose all-wheel drive for our Midwestern winters.
Cadillac says the SRX chassis was developed to balance driving dynamics with a comfortable ride, and it does just that. The suspension
system adjusts the shock absorbers in milliseconds depending on driving conditions. That enables the car to soak up bumps without sacrificing responsive handling.
The SRX wheelbase is two inches shorter than that of two of General Motor’s newest crossovers, the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain.
The SRX cabin is nicely tailored because the dash is covered with hand-cut-and-sewn material that looks rich and elegant. A navigation
screen rises from the center of the instrument panel when the vehicle is started. The instrument pod looks great because the three gauges have light backgrounds and dark numerals. The center of the speedometer contains a bright-blue display that can show a variety of items, from navigation instructions to digital speed readout.
The front seats could use more lateral support, but were otherwise comfortable.
Clever touches abound. Two small crystal-like pieces near the top of the speedometer glow when the turn signals are activated.
Bluetooth connectivity and input for an MP3 player are standard. The rear-seat entertainment center has separate screens in the back of each front seat.
The cargo space has a handy track for lashing down cargo, and a goodsized concealed storage space under the floor. The sloping roof impinges a bit on the cargo capacity.
Safety items include front, side and side-curtain airbags, along with antilock brakes, traction control and a vehicle stability system with trailer stability assist.
Price: he base price of the test car was $45,975. Options included the rear-seat entertainment system and black ice metallic paint. The sticker price was $48,740.
Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles with a five-year, 100,000- mile powertrain warranty.
To reach Tom Strongman, e-mail Tom@TomStrongman.com.
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