Preview: 2010 Cadillac SRX
At next week’s Detroit Auto Show, Cadillac will unveil a radically redesigned 2010 SRX crossover. Most vehicles get a makeover with a redesign about once every five years, but rarely do they change as completely as Cadillac’s midsize SUV has. The new vehicle has more in common with the Lexus RX than with anything out of Cadillac’s own stable.
Autoblog explains, “There is almost nothing carried over to this version of the SRX compared to the old one, although many of the greasy bits are shared with other GM vehicles.”
Motor Trend comments, “The styling is dramatic, with all the trimmings we’re coming to expect: a dihedral grille with jumbo wreath and crest flanked by jewellike Xenon projector-beam headlamps in front, body creases flowing back from a vertical faux air exhauster just aft of the front wheel, a coupelike side-window opening shape, tall vertical taillamps, and a sharp trouser crease running up the hood, down the dash, and right back to the tailgate.” Its exterior shape is now close to that of the RX, but with Cadillac’s unique angular design signature.
Kicking Tires says, “The interior is similar in design to the new CTS…with a navigation screen that rises up out of the dashboard. The top of the dash is also hand-stitched leather, a recent trend in Cadillac interiors. Bluetooth is standard, while options will include a built-in hard drive for music, a power liftgate, and a rear entertainment system featuring screens in both headrests.”
Edmunds Inside Line gives the mechanical details. “The new SRX will be smaller and lighter than its predecessor, with seating for five, and will no longer come with a V8 option. Instead, buyers can choose from one of two DOHC V6,” a 3.0-liter version rated for 260 horsepower or an optional turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 making 300 hp. A six-speed automatic transmission helps to improve fuel economy — GM “says it expects EPA highway mileage ratings in the mid-20s” — a significant boost from the current model, which has been hampered by poor fuel economy and sometimes sluggish performance. Front and all-wheel-drive versions will be available.
Pricing has not been announced. The new SRX is expected to reach dealerships around the middle of 2009.
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