The Cadillac SRX has been redesigned for the 2010 model year, and it now features a much more attractive physique and a pleasing, luxurious cabin.
Say goodbye to SRX's previous wagonlike looks and say hello to an all-new model that's quite good looking.
The all-new SRX is a bit downsized from the previous version, but in a good way. Its nose reminds me of the Escalade, and the SRX also sports nicely chiseled lines. Swing around back and you will be mesmerized by the unique "finned" taillights.
Slip inside and you'll be equally impressed. The cabin is luxurious, featuring excellent craftsmanship and plenty of attention to detail.
I like the Cadillac script logos in the front door sill plates that illuminate when the doors are opened. I also like the finely tailored leather, the gorgeous instrument panel and soothing ambient lighting.
The floor mats could be better, though. And I'm not a fan of the optional navigation system that pops up out of the top of the center pod. I also found the seats in my top-of-the-line premium model to be somewhat stiff with little cushion thickness.
However, that did not detract from the wonderful aroma and feel of fine leather. Also, the wood and leather steering wheel seems almost too pretty to touch. But once you do, you'll want to take the 2010 SRX for a spin.
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2010 Cadillac SRX is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and can be had in multiple trim levels.
The base model (FWD only) is priced at $33,830 and is hardly basic, featuring a long list of amenities that includes 18-inch alloy wheels, an eight-speaker Bose audio system with XM radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power driver's seat and much more. But there's no spare tire.
Instead, you get a tire inflation kit.
Those who desire more goodies can step up to the luxury, performance or premium trim levels. These trim levels also allow you to choose either FWD or AWD.
The AWD system is new and also features an electronic limited-slip differential to improve traction under all driving conditions.
Powering the 2010 Cadillac SRX is a new fuel-efficient direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6 engine rated at 265 horsepower and 18/25 mpg for FWD models (17/23 mpg for AWD models).
Optional is a 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6 engine rated at 300 horsepower and 15/22 mpg (AWD only).
Regardless of which power plant you choose, the SRX features a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.
The ride is smooth and tranquil. The cabin is well insulated, too, letting in very little road or engine noise. Handling is good, but SRX is not as agile as some of its European competitors. And I wonder why Cadillac powered the SRX with a downsized 3.0-liter version of the livelier 3.6-liter engine in the GM stable.
Some may complain about the power output of the base engine. And stepping up to the turbo comes at a premium of a $50,000 or better price tag.
Still, the 2010 Cadillac SRX offers a refined ride worthy of the Cadillac badge. The SRX also includes an abundance of safety features, a five-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and a four-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Take the new SRX for a spin so you can experience all that it has to offer.
2010 Cadillac SRX Turbo PremiumENGINE: 300-horsepower 2.8-liter V-6
TRANSMISSION: six-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: all-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 15 city/22 highway
BASE PRICE: $51,360
AS TESTED: $54,475 (including $825 for destination)
WEB SITE: www.Cadillac.com