New Cadillac SRX Review

The Cadillac SRX is a luxury crossover SUV that has lived two lives. In its first incarnation, the SRX borrowed its rear-wheel-drive underpinnings from the original CTS sport sedan and boasted options like a third-row seat and a V8. In its current form, the SRX rides on a front-wheel-drive platform (related to Chevy's Equinox), is smaller, is limited to five seats and only offers V6 power.

Like all crossovers, the Cadillac SRX utilizes components and construction more often associated with cars than trucks like its Escalade brand mate. The result is a more comfortable ride and better handling, since many consumers don't need the tougher, truck-type construction that is advisable for heavy-duty chores such as towing or off-road travel. We're bigger fans of the first SRX than the second, but even the new one is worth a look if you're partial to America's foremost luxury brand.

Current Cadillac SRX
The Cadillac SRX is a small luxury crossover SUV that seats five people. The only engine available is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 308 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. Although this is one of the most robust engines in its class, the SRX's hefty weight means that acceleration is only average for the class. A six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

One of the SRX's most appealing traits is its healthy roster of standard equipment. There are four available trim levels for the SRX: base, Luxury, Performance and Premium. Even the base model comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, 60/40-split-folding and reclining rear seatbacks, dual-zone automatic climate control and an eight-speaker Bose sound system. Higher trim levels tack on almost every conceivable luxury, including a sunroof, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, xenon headlamps and a hard-drive-based navigation system with a back-up camera. The all-wheel-drive Performance model receives a sport-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping.

In reviews, we've noted that the current SRX is a compelling entry in the compact luxury SUV segment now that it has the engine needed to keep up with the pack. Handling is surprisingly agile and the ride is quite supple, especially with the adjustable dampers. The well-appointed cabin is also notably quiet, although backseat headroom is a bit tight when it's equipped with the panoramic sunroof that comes standard on all but the base model. Tall occupants will find their heads uncomfortably grazing the roof. As long as you can live with that trade-off, the SRX is definitely worth consideration.

Read the most recent 2014 Cadillac SRX review.

If you are looking for older years, visit our used Cadillac SRX page.