In recent years, Cadillac has raised its profile with edgy styling and surprisingly good performance. The sporty 2015 SRX enhances that appeal.
Despite not seeing significant changes since this generation’s debut back in 2010, the SRX still matches up well against the best in the luxury crossover-SUV segment. Its main competitors are the Lexus RX, the BMW X3, and the Audi Q5 – which are all important rivals.
The minor additions GM made this year include new colours and the 4G-LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot capability on the OnStar system.
Design
Chiseled and athletic are the best words to describe the distinctive SRX. The angular lines give it a masculine feel. Even though the SRX is one of the most “dated” vehicles in Cadillac’s lineup, its styling holds up well and the car still looks fresh and exciting.
The SRX’s look is epitomized by Cadillac’s wide shield grille, flanked by the now iconic vertical headlights. The wheels are pushed to the corners, resulting in a wide stance and short overhangs.
Looking at the SRX from the side, your eye is drawn to the fender vents and prominent crease rising from the top of the front wheel to just below the rear window. The high beltline and rear slanted roof continue the aggressive look, but does limit outward visibility.
Vertical taillights compliment the front and the twin tailpipes round out the package. A power liftgate is standard on all but the base model.
The SRX’s cabin is still up-to-date and luxurious; It should please any young executive, though the newer competitors are perhaps a bit more modern.
Available in four trim levels, the SRX is offered with Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections.
Performance
All SRX models are powered by a direct-injected 3.6-litre V6 rated at 308 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. Lightweight materials were used to reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a better front-to-rear balance.
It is mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, which features an ECO mode that alters the shift points to improve fuel economy.
All-wheel drive is available with every model except the base model. The system incorporates an electronic limited-slip differential that increases traction in slippery conditions, while also providing side-to-side torque transfer across the rear axle to enhance control during hard cornering.
Further aiding handling is the variable-effort, speed-sensitive steering system. It is tuned with a sport-sedan style bias and gives good feedback without feeling too heavy. In fact, thanks to the traditional hydraulic steering mechanism, the SRX provides a sportier feel than many of its competitors, which have incorporated an electric steering system.
The SRX is also available with Cadillac’s advanced safety systems. The most sophisticated of those features is frontal automatic braking. Using radar, camera and ultrasound technology, this system helps prevent low-speed collisions with alerts and the ability to brake completely, if necessary.
Environment
The SRX’s cabin is a blend of luxury and technology. The materials are rich, the wood accent trim feels authentic, and the overall look and feel is comfortable and contemporary.
The front seats are well bolstered, yet roomy. However, the three-passenger rear seat can be a little tight for taller adults, partly due to the SRX’s low roof. The UltraView power sunroof goes a long way to making the cabin feel bright and airy.
The 844-litre volume should be plenty for regular shopping trips, but the cargo space behind the folding and reclining rear seats is somewhat less than its rivals
The foundation of the SRX’s interior is its infotainment system. The Cadillac User Experience (CUE) is complimented by Bluetooth audio streaming, and USB and SD connection.
You interact with the system through a touch-sensitive eight-inch display. The large easy-to-target buttons and Haptic feedback create a comfortable experience, although it is not the most user-friendly unfortunately (like most touch controls lately).
To make the driving experience more enjoyable, the SRX offers active noise cancellation. Using microphones to monitor ambient noise, a computer plays counteracting frequencies through the audio system to quiet the cabin.
Features
The 2015 SRX ranges in price from $42,930 to 58,205.
Standard equipment includes heated front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity.
Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, front and rear park assist, rearview camera, auto-dimming mirrors, auto windshield wipers, and remote start.
Fuel efficiency numbers (L/100km) for front-wheel drive models are 14.2 city, 9.6 highway, and 12.3 combined. All-wheel drive models return 14.8 city, 10.4 highway, and 12.8 combined.
Thumbs Up
The SRX has dated well, with great styling and surprisingly good steering feel.
Thumbs Down
The car is beginning to feel outdated against other vehicles in this class. Also, several rivals offer diesel or hybrid powertrains that are more fuel efficient.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a five-passenger luxury crossover with bold styling and high-tech infotainment, be sure to check out the Cadillac SRX.
