A marvelous blend of luxury with sporting overtones, the 2010 Cadillac SRX
When it comes to interior refinement, General Motors is on track to firmly establish itself as the benchmark among American manufacturers. The latest vehicle to benefit from this newfound prowess is Cadillac's new SRX for 2010.
From the hand cut and sewn leather on the dash and door panels, to the distinctive design of the instrument panel and center stack, the 2010 Cadillac SRX is rolling proof that America can build world class automobiles. Happily, this attention to detail is carried over into the exterior of the SRX as well.
This latest application of the Art and Science design theme fits the new crossover like a crisply pressed suit. The lines and angles converge in a gracefully proportionate manner to form what is arguably now the most handsome vehicle in the segment.
Two engines are available to power the 2010 SRX at launch. The base powerplant generates 265-horsepower at 6950 rpm and 223 ft-lbs of torque from a 3.0-liter direct injected V6. Coming a bit later is a 300-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.8-liter V6. Both engines use a six-speed automatic transmission to route power. All-wheel drive with an advanced limited slip differential system is available as an option with the 3.6 and will be standard with the 2.8. Speaking of engines, the 2010 SRX is also distinctive in that it marks the first Cadillac in recent memory with no V8 option.
However, going over the road, you'll never miss it.
During my time with the Cadillac,I found the 265-horsepower engine to be more than adequate for any situation. Whether climbing the Santa Monica Mountains just north of Los Angeles, or accelerating onto freeways, the 3.6-liter met the task at hand remarkably well. If the 265 horsepower engine works this well, I expect the 300-horsepower turbo will be quite exhilarating indeed.
Of course, most people will judge the SRX more in terms of the smoothness, quietness and comfort and convenience features it offers. And in this regard the five-passenger SRX is quite exemplary as well. Highlights include a "pop-up" navigation screen in the dashboard with three-dimensional imaging, adaptive forward lighting that swivels the headlamps in synch with vehicle steering, a power liftgate with programmable height setting, an integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen system for rear entertainment.
Bluetooth compatibility is standard, as is OnStar's Turn-by-Turn Navigation service for buyers who do not select the navigation system option. Another distinctive feature is the SRX's ability to inform the driver of the speed limit through a readout in the instrument panel.
Gorgeous styling, a comfortable and well-crafted interior, along with technological wizardry, and competent handling, all combined in a vehicle with considerable appeal, that's SRX appeal.
Indeed.
Pricing starts at $34,155.
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