SRX gets out from under the radar
"Hi, Dad! How's it going? What's that? What kind of car am I test driving this week? A Cadillac sport utility, the SRX. Not bad, eh? You know the model I'm talking about?"
"Um, I'm not sure. It's not that gargantuan chrome-covered SUV, is it?"
"No, you're talking about the Escalade. The SRX is smaller than that. It's similar to the Acura MDX and the Lexus RX."
"Oh, then no, I've never heard of it!"
You would not believe, dear readers, how many people I've had this conversation with. And not a single one of them knew what vehicle I was talking about. Sure, they knew about the Escalade, that American symbol that takes to the road with the subtlety of a rhinoceros on a golf course, but they've never heard of the SRX, even though it's been around since 2004! In fact, last year, there were 50% more SRXs sold in Canada than Escalades. How do you explain this phenomenon?
It must be that the SRX is the kind of car that blends in with the landscape, despite its splendour. You have to admit, there's really nothing boring about this vehicle. Its signature Cadillac lines are just as understated as they are spectacular. That's a great quality if you're concerned about unwanted attention on the road.
Over the last four years, the SRX has been trying to compete with luxury midsize SUVs, a segment dominated by Asian and European vehicles. Its forms and lines could be compared to those of the Chrysler Pacifica, which not everyone will appreciate. Personally, I love them! But if you're looking for something a little more macho, this is probably not the car for you. That said, if you want a manly vehicle, Cadillac offers the Escalade. If you're not in the market for testosterone, I recommend the SRX, a more streamlined vehicle that won't elicit the evil eye from environmentalists.
Climbing the ranks
The first SRXs didn't stand up to the competition when it came to assembly quality and interior fit and trim. The rather unimpressive dashboard was made of rough plastics that scuffed at the slightest touch and made crackling noises when exposed to the sun. Fortunately, the engineers heard these criticisms and designed a new driving compartment for the 2007 model. Not only did they use higher-quality materials, they also brought the overall look up to par with the rest of the product. It has a new dashboard with a revamped centre stack that no longer faces the driver. The overall design is more sedate and stripped down, highlighting the small amount of metallic trim and the wood trim.
Behind the wheel, it's clear that comfortable seating was very important for the designers. Well moulded and enveloping, just firm enough and upholstered in quality leather, the bucket seats will make you feel like never standing up again. Even the passenger seating is remarkably comfortable, which is not always the case, even for vehicles in this category. Of course, the optional third row seems designed to be used in a pinch, rather than as truly comfortable seating.
On a less positive note, the SRX's passenger compartment is still plagued by a significant number of irritating noises, due no doubt to certain elements' being clamped down a little loosely. The rear is particularly affected by noises coming from the seats and the floor. But let me assure you that there is no body noise. There's nothing to worry about on that front.
Two fantastic motors
Whether you prefer the V6 or the V8, you'll be receiving the best of GM engineering in either case. First, there's the modern and efficient 3.6-litre V6, which gives all its power and torque with great fluidity and vitality. Most clients opt for the V6, which comes with an impeccable five-speed automatic transmission.
Second, Cadillac offers a tireless 4.6-litre Northstar V8, producing 320 hp. Very powerful but also quite thirsty, the low throb of this motor, far from unpleasant, makes you think the vehicle is invincible. This year, the V8 is married to a new six-speed automatic transmission, allowing you to fully take advantage of its greater power, while offering slightly better fuel economy than last year's model.
On the road, the SRX has a surprisingly rigid structure and dynamic handling. You never get the impression you're driving a truck. Instead, you feel like you're driving a Cadillac STS, just slightly elevated. Those familiar with the Cadillac STS know what high praise this is. With firm suspension that does everything to limit roll, the vehicle takes corners with ease. The precise and responsive steering gives the driver a good feeling while improving handling. The brakes are also surprising for such a powerful vehicle, but give a disappointing lunge forward during emergency stops.
The SRX, whether with rear-wheel drive or all-speed traction control, is as safe as a car. Remarkable soundproofing, excellent seats and a very well calibrated suspension should satisfy your thirst for comfort, while the mechanical and structural elements will give you an enjoyable interaction with the road; however, I would say that comparing the two options, the V6 seems a better choice. It offers a fairly powerful engine and is a balanced and well equipped vehicle. Plus, it's sold at a competitive price. As for the V8, the price increase is a bit steep. And that's not counting the increased spending at the pump, about 15% more than the V6.
In the end, while this vehicle may pass unnoticed by some, it deserves to be better known. Last year, some 1,589 SRXs were sold in Canada, while Lexus and Acura dominated the segment, selling 4,623 and 4,257 units respectively of their RX and MDX models. There are several reasons for this difference, but I believe the improvements made this year will dramatically increase its competitiveness. And for that to happen, Cadillac has to find a way to attract clients into its dealerships.
But that's another story
Competitors: Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Infiniti FX, Land Rover LR3, Lexus RX, M-Benz M-Class, Saab 9-7x, Volkswagen Touareg, Volvo XC90
Strengths: Original look, new well crafted passenger compartment, dynamic handling, guaranteed comfort, excellent powertrain
Weaknesses: some noises and crackling sounds in the passenger compartment, seven-passenger option not very convincing, high fuel consumption, high price
Find a dealer that sells the Cadillac SRX
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