The 2010 Cadillac SRX is a mid-size crossover vehicle that can carry five passengers. The look of the 2010 is a real improvement over the previous model, which sported some awkward proportions. By making the new SRX shorter and wider and getting rid of the front and rear overhang, the new model looks much more attractive.
The new SRX has a trapezoid-shaped chrome grille and vertically-stacked headlights. This gives a nice family look to the vehicle without making it look like every other crossover on the road today. The side sections of this vehicle are even more stylish than the popular Lexus RX – a line begins at the front wheel well, ending at the tail light lenses that look like vestigial tail fins, but are actually aerodynamically functional. The rear edge of the roof features an integrated spoiler and standard wheels are 18 inch, while 20 inch wheels are available. The rear hatch looks a little heavy and Cadillac missed an opportunity to hide the rear wiper up under the spoiler, but otherwise, this is a very attractive exterior.
Inside the SRX, you’ll find the kind of luxury that you’ve come to expect from Cadillac. The instrument panel coverings are hand crafted and hand sewn and the ambient lighting is nicely done. Climate controls are housed in an integrated center stack, as are controls for the audio system. A NAV system is optional. And because the SRX is wider than other crossovers in the mid-size range, the rear seats feel roomier, which your child and adult passengers alike will appreciate.
The engine in the 2010 SRX may look less powerful than the engine in the 2009 model on paper, as the 2009 model had a 3.6 liter V6 or a 4.6 liter V8, and the new 2010 model comes with a direct injected 3.0 liter V6. However, these changes mean more horsepower and improved fuel economy. The new engine enables the SRX to provide 265 horsepower with fuel estimates of 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. An optional turbocharged 2.8 liter V6 will also be available, and the SRX has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Both engines use a six speed automatic transmission with front wheel drive, and Haldex all wheel drive is available – if you’ll be doing lots of driving in poor weather, consider this option. Two different suspensions are offered. In addition to the standard tune, the SRX has an optional FE3 – an active suspension with Continuous Damping Control. Because of this, the ride is smooth and the SRX handles more like a sport sedan than most other crossovers. The engine is a little louder than you’d expect in a luxury vehicle when the engine is revving over 6,000 rpm, but otherwise, the engine is quiet, belying its power.
The SRX also features a number of systems and gadgets that make the driving experience much more rewarding, including adaptive forward lighting which moves the headlights as the steering wheel turns. Audio files can also be stored on an integrated hard disc and Bluetooth compatibility comes standard.
Finally, the 2010 SRX isn’t a disappointment when it comes to safety features. Head curtain side air bags are standard, as are front seat mounted side air bags and seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters. OnStar also comes standard, although you may have to pay extra to keep up the service after a certain amount of time. In addition, the SRX is constructed with one of the strongest steels – Martensitic steel – to prevent intrusion in the event of a side impact crash.
