2009 Cadillac SRX Review
2009 Cadillac SRX Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Excellent ride and handling dynamics, peppy V6 and V8 engines, roomy and comfortable interior with snazzy style, optional third-row seat.
Cons
- A few low-grade materials and annoyances in the interior, styling is too wagonlike for many, optional third row isn't particularly useful.
What’s new
Other than a few minor option package changes, the Cadillac SRX stands pat for 2009.
Edmunds says
With its sporty handling, smooth ride and roomy, luxurious cabin, the 2009 Cadillac SRX is one of our top choices for a midsize luxury crossover SUV.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Cadillac SRX V6 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.12 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$210/mo for SRX V6
SRX V6
vs
$239/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
Essentially a tallish wagon with SUV-inspired styling, the 2009 Cadillac SRX has the road manners of a sport sedan. A four-wheeled example of having one's cake and eating it too, the SRX can seat seven and haul up to 70 cubic feet of cargo. Yet it's actually fun to drive, behaving more like the previous-generation CTS sedan (upon which it's based) than some sort of shrunken Escalade.
Introduced back in '04, the SRX has seen steady detail improvements, including an interior overhaul a few years back. Though a choice of a 255-horsepower V6 or a 320-hp V8 may seem more than ample, a scan of spec sheets shows the SRX lagging somewhat in the mighty hp race that's gone bonkers in the last few years. But considering that the SRX weighs considerably less than most rivals, this is a non-issue when you move away from the computer and get behind the wheel, as either engine provides strong performance.
Although sales of the SRX have been slow (anecdotal evidence is that many people find its styling too wagonlike), we're quite fond of Cadillac's midsize crossover. Based on our long-term test of a rear-wheel-drive V6 version, we think the SRX has no problem going tire-to-tire against its rivals from Germany and Japan in terms of overall performance, luxury, utility and upscale design. Indeed, should you cross-shop this crossover against the likes of the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Infiniti FX series, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class and Volvo XC90, you'll discover, as we did, that the 2009 Cadillac SRX makes a compelling case for itself.
Performance & mpg
The SRX V6 comes with a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 255 hp and 254 pound-feet of torque; it's coupled to a five-speed automatic. The V8 version packs a 4.6-liter V8 with 320 horses and 315 lb-ft of torque, matched to a six-speed auto. Both transmissions come with manual shift control. The SRX is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
In performance testing of the SRX V6, we recorded a 0-60 time of 8.2 seconds, while the V8 is about a second quicker. Fuel economy for the rear-wheel-drive SRX V6 is 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined. The V8 model rates 13/20/16. Opting for AWD has only a small effect on fuel mileage.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags for the first two rows are all standard. In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests, the 2009 Cadillac SRX scored four out of five stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts. Side-impact tests resulted in a perfect five-star rating for front and rear passengers. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal-offset crash tests, the Caddy scored "Good," the highest rating possible.
Driving
Those expecting Cadillac's midsize SUV to exhibit the sort of lazy handling and floaty ride that was once expected from the brand are in for a pleasant surprise. Especially with the optional Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension, the SRX's handling is simply outstanding. The Caddy feels tight and responsive around turns, giving it a tossable feel close to Infiniti's FX crossover. At the same time, the highway ride is smooth and comfortable, just as crossover SUV buyers want. The response and feel of both the steering and brakes are impressive as well.
A very well-rounded package, the 2009 Cadillac SRX is a top choice for those wanting a bit of extra on-road excitement from their SUVs.
Interior
The SRX's handsome cabin features tasteful wood and alloy trim, supple leather upholstery and classy touches like an analog clock. The dash design is attractive and decidedly upscale, with controls that are mostly logical and fall easily to hand. For the most part, fit, finish and materials quality are all excellent, though a few lower-grade plastic bits here and there remind us why past GM interiors drew criticism.
Although the driver seat is comfortable, with a good range of adjustment, the tilt-only steering wheel has only six widely spaced "steps" to it, making finding a "just right" position difficult for some drivers. Some staffers also feel that the brake and accelerator pedals are too disparate in height, requiring too much leg and ankle movement between them.
As with most midsize SUVs that offer three rows of seats, accommodations in the power-folding rearmost bench seat are tight. Second-row occupants will be happier, though, with plenty of sprawl room. Adding to the airy feel is the huge optional UltraView sunroof that provides an uninterrupted view of the heavens. With the smallish third row folded (or not selected), there are 32 cubic feet of cargo space, while a maximum of 70 cubes is available when both rear rows are dropped.
2009 Cadillac SRX models
The 2009 Cadillac SRX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV offered in two trim levels, named for what's under the hood: V6 or V8. The V6 includes 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking assist, leather seating, a power driver seat, OnStar, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an eight-speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. Step up to the V8 and, in addition to the bigger engine, you'll get 18-inch alloys, xenon headlamps, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, driver memory presets, real wood accents, a power front passenger seat and a six-CD changer.
Most of the V8's features are optional on the V6. Major options for both models include a Magnetic Ride Control suspension, a power-folding third-row seat, a separate rear air-conditioning system, an extra-large "UltraView" sunroof, a heated steering wheel, a DVD rear entertainment system, a surround-sound stereo and a navigation system. A Sport Package adds larger 18- or 20-inch wheels, unique fascias and the option for a limited-slip differential.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Cadillac SRX.
5 star(77%)
4 star(13%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(6%)
1 star(2%)
47 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
My New Vehicle!
Mickey, 07/08/2008
2008 Cadillac SRX V6 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
I have always been loyal to GM. This time, I purchased instead of leasing so I drove everything, BMW, Volvo, Maxda, Acura and settled on the SRX. I couldn't be happier, the ride is beautiful, the inside "top notch" not like the Enclave which was my first choice after I traded the Buick Rendezvous. Rear seat leg room better than any car I test drove. I am 6 feet tall and the vehicle is … very, very comfortable all the way around. The extra seating in the cargo is useless to me so those will always stay down.
4.5 out of 5 stars
SRX w/20' Sport Package - runs great, looks great
dsowa, 06/02/2012
2008 Cadillac SRX V6 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
I bought a used black 2008 V6 SRX with 28K miles this year.
I added the 20-inch sport wheels and it looks fantastic from any angle.
Must have been pampered by the former owner as it's nearly flawless after over four years.
I wish I had the Ultraview sunroof, but it's one less thing to break in the long run.
Potential buyers beware of water leaks around the back hatch that leave water in … the tire jack storage well.
It's an expensive fix (700+$), and that's if you catch it early and there's no other damage.
Other than that one problem, I love this car.
5 out of 5 stars
2008 SRX "Sleeper/Keeper"
Lorenzo, 04/07/2019
2008 Cadillac SRX V8 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
Most newer SUVs have shrunk-down to 5-passenger models. The 2005-2009 Cadillac SRXes were wonderful models......with seats for seven (7). Then, in 2010, following other manufacturers, the SRX was also 'shrunken'. Our 2008 SRX meets all our needs: Seven (7) passengers (when needed), very comfortable, quiet ride, cruises on highway like on a cloud, and still looks good. Of course, we … miss 30 mpg.....but for the lower miles we drive, it's worth it! Had our SRX mechanically checked-out, and no major issues at 73,000 miles. Other larger SUV's (Toyotas, Hondas, etc.) may have higher resale values, but for the price we paid, we're very happy driving our 2008 Cadillac SRX.
4.38 out of 5 stars
Best Car I've Owned
Macdaddy, 11/07/2010
2008 Cadillac SRX V8 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
Bought nearly 3 years ago now-fully loaded V8 with sport package. Never a problem or even recall. Just change the oil. I wish all cars could be this good and trouble-free.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Cadillac SRX, so we've included reviews for other years of the SRX since its last redesign.
2009 SRX Highlights
V6
Base MSRP | $40,460 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $210/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 32.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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