2009 Cadillac SRX

The SRX is Cadillac's entry in the competitive mid-size luxury SUV market that includes competitors such as the Lexus RX350, BMW X5 and Mercedes ML-class. Introduced in 2004, the SRX is a crossover that shares its Sigma platform and capable handling with the popular CTS sports sedan. The SRX is significantly longer than many of its rivals, but in exchange for the extra size it offers a large cargo area and can be optioned with a third row seat, allowing for seven passengers.

The SRX is available in two trim levels based on engine configuration. The entry level SRX features a 3.6 liter 'High Feature' V6 with 255 horsepower and 254 lb.-feet of torque paired with a 5-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. A full leather interior is standard, as are an 8 speaker Bose sound system, an ultrasonic rear parking assist, and a remote power rear liftgate. An optional Luxury package adds a 6 disc CD changer, a generous amount of Sapele wood trim, power adjustable and heated front seats, and a heated leather wrapped steering wheel. A Premium Luxury package contains all the elements of the Luxury package as well as 18-inch aluminum wheels, a limited slip differential, and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps.

The upper level SRX employs a 4.6 liter Northstar V8 that produces 320 horsepower and 315 lb.-feet of torque and is mated to a 6-speed automatic; it comes standard with the Luxury package and limited slip dif. A premium luxury package offers a Bose 5.1 surround sound system with DVD navigation, power adjustable pedals, and an enormous 'Ultraview' sunroof that extends over the first and second rows of seating.

Both V6 and V8 SRX trim levels come standard with rear wheel drive, with all wheel drive as an option. Also optional are an entertainment package with a rear seat DVD player and a sport package for the V8 model with 20' chrome wheels and a more aggressive body kit. Standard safety features include dual front and side curtain airbags, front and second row curtain airbags, a Stabilitrak stability control system, and traction control.

The SRX was significantly updated for 2007 with a much improved interior that replaced the old model's sea of dark plastic with a new instrument panel, dashboard, and door trim, all featuring French stitching. There are no major changes for 2008; it is widely believed that the SRX will be replaced in 2010 by a smaller model known as the BRX, which will eschew the SRX's rear wheel drive for front wheel drive underpinnings.