2007 Cadillac SRX-V6 Review
 2007 Cadillac SRX |
THE AUTO PAGE
by JOHN HEILIG
Engine: 3.6-liter V6
Horsepower/Torque: 260hp @ 6500 rpm/254 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 116.0 in.
Length x Width x Height: 195.0 x 72.6 x 67.8 in.
Tires: 235/65HR17 front/255/60HR17 rear
Cargo volume: 69.5 cu. ft.
Economy: 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway/13.7 mpg test
Price: $$48,190 (includes $745 destination charge and $10,700 in options)
The Bottom Line: The Cadillac SUV of choice if you're not in the NBA or a wannabe. Smooth power and traditional Cadillac luxury. Who needs a bigger engine?
Cadillac has a pair of sport utility vehicles (three, if you count the Avalanche-like Escalade EXT). The Escalade is the larger of the two and the favorite of NBA players and rappers. This week’s tester, the SVZ, is a more manageable mid-size with a more economical V6 engine that is an absolute pleasure to drive.
Although they’re built on separate platforms, there’s an amazing similarity between the SRX and the new GMC Acadia. Both are the same size, both are luxurious (although the Cadillac, by its DNA, is more luxurious), and both offer a host of amenities to please any shopper.
Rear-wheel drive is standard with the SRX, although all-wheel drive is available. Our tester was optioned for luxury rather than performance, which isn’t a bad thing.
I was impressed with the smooth power available from the 3.6-liter V6 and the 5-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed automatic is available with the optional 4.6-liter “Northstar” V8. The transmission has a manual mode that isn’t really necessary. The automatic is so versatile there’s no real need to shift manually. And, this is a Cadillac.
Even in our hillclimb test, we didn’t need manual shifting. There’s enough low-range torque to keep the SRX going at a good clip even when you’re negotiating tight corners.
As one might expect, the seats are very comfortable with good side support. The seats were heated, but we were fortunate to have decent weather and didn’t need the extra warmth.
The steering wheel has audio controls, and they’re located in a spot where you won’t accidentally hit them when you’re driving. Steering wheel audio controls are a nice feature, but they lose a lot of charm when you’re continually accidentally changing the station or medium.
I also like the instrument panel with four dials and white-on-black lettering with narrow lines and red pointers. The i.p. looks very European. There’s a neat analog clock located in the center of the dash that isn’t that easy to read, but it’s still better looking than a digital clock.
One feature that will impress sun lovers is a huge sunroof that covers the first two rows of seats. This way, all the passengers can get a view of the sky above.
Legroom in the front is excellent, with power adjustable pedals for the driver. Legroom in the second row is also excellent, but a tall center hump makes the SRX into a four-seater.
The rear cargo area is large. It’s rated at 8.4 cubic feet with the second and third row seats up, 32.4 cubic feet with the third row seats down and the second row up, and 69.5 cubic feet with the second and third row seats folded. Really, if you need anything more you should get a minivan.
Second-row HVAC outlets are located in the ceiling over the windows, providing comfort for passengers back there. The front HVAC is automatic and worked when it was cold. In addition, the audio not only offers XM radio, but has an “AUX” input for iPods and the like.
There is no apparent interior rear liftgate switch although there is one on the key fob. I checked the owner’s manual and couldn’t find a reference, but I’ll admit to ignorance if someone want to tell me where it is. The liftgate does have a power close that makes it handy.
I wasn’t impressed with the fuel economy, but since it’s a Cadillac the old maxim, “If you have to ask about economy, you shouldn’t buy it” might apply. However, this is the 21st Century and I felt the V6 should have delivered more than 13.7b mpg.
I liked the SRX and feel this is what a Cadillac SUV should be. The Escalade is nice, but it’s big and bigger isn’t always better.
© 2007 The Auto Page Syndicate
