Cadillac SRX Review

2009 Cadillac SRX V8 SUV Shown

The Cadillac SRX is a luxury crossover SUV aimed at family-oriented buyers looking for an upscale, convenience-laden vehicle that's fun to drive. Some people might be tempted to label it a station wagon, but Cadillac marketers like to refer to the SRX as a "luxury utility vehicle" in hopes of avoiding any possible connotations of blandness.

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.

The SRX's swept-back and angular styling suggests sporting intent, and thankfully, this vehicle has the goods to back that up as it's based on the mechanical underpinnings of the last-generation Cadillac CTS sport sedan. Powered by a V6 or V8 and available with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the SRX offers handling and performance that is neither boring nor common. For a driver whose priority is a responsive, luxurious people hauler, a new or used SRX is one of our recommended choices in this segment.

Current Cadillac SRX

The Cadillac SRX midsize luxury crossover SUV is available in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive format. Buyers have a choice of a 260-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 or a 320-hp 4.6-liter V8.

With an impressive 41 inches of legroom in the second row, the SRX will comfortably carry four 6-foot adults. An optional fold-flat third-row seat is available. However, its 24 inches of legroom makes it suitable for only the smallest of children. Plus, with that third row in use there is no meaningful cargo capacity. Nevertheless, the third row is ideal for families who occasionally need to tote an extra child or two on short trips.

As one would expect from a luxury SUV, there is a comprehensive amount of safety and luxury-themed equipment. For big-sky fans, a huge, optional sunroof gives the SRX a more open feeling. One option that maximizes the ride and handling is GM's Magnetic Ride Control, which automatically adjusts suspension settings depending on driving and road conditions. While cruising straight down the interstate, the ride can be soft and comfy. But head up a curved exit ramp at a brisk speed and the Magnetic Ride Control firms up and reduces body lean for better handling.

In reviews, we've found the Cadillac SRX enjoyable to drive. The combination of the Northstar V8 and six-speed automatic transmission provides strong acceleration. The V6 is the more popular choice among SRX buyers, however, and it should be adequate for most drivers. It also returns better fuel economy than the V8.

Past Cadillac SRX Models

The Cadillac SRX was introduced for the 2004 model year. Cadillac has yet to introduce a second-generation SRX but it has made small improvements each year. Used SRX buyers should be aware that Cadillac made significant interior updates for 2007, which greatly improved upon the cheap interior materials and bland design found in earlier SRXs. Past V8-equipped models also have a five-speed automatic rather than the more efficient six-speed on the current model.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.