First launched in Europe in 2004, the crossover Cadillac SRX set a new trend in combining the sporty exterior and driving dynamics of a luxury station wagon with the offroad capabilities and interior space of a sport utility vehicle. Further enhancing the appeal of the SRX for 2007, are a redesigned interior, a competitively priced rear-wheel-drive V-6 model, an enhanced V-8 Northstar model with six-speed automatic gearbox, a Sport Package and the option of RHD.

A genuine all-rounder, the Cadillac SRX remains the division’s first-ever luxury crossover vehicle and it expresses Cadillac's bold design vocabulary with its crisp, sharp-edged look, striking vertical headlights, bold front side sections and the V-shaped front tapering into the classic Cadillac grille.

The SRX is now being offered with a wider choice of powertrains. The 4.6-litre, 32-valve V-8 Northstar engine, extensively re-engineered and mounted longitudinally in the first all wheel-drive application of the Northstar engine family, is a sophisticated, technically advanced powerplant that generates 239 kW (325 hp) at 6500 rpm and 427 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. This sophistication is now further enhanced with a new, more responsive efficient six-speed automatic transmission.



The 3.6L V-6 VVT power plant develops 190 kW (258 hp) at 6500 rpm and 339 Nm of torque at 2700 rpm. The 60-degree dual overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve powerplant boasts electronic throttle control, variable valve timing, multi-port fuel injection, two-stage roller chain cam drive, aluminium block and cylinder heads and a forged steel crankshaft coupled to a five-speed automatic gearbox. In addition to all wheel-drive transmission, the V-6 is now also available with a competitively-priced rear-wheel drive option.

Both 5- and 6-speed Automatic transmissions feature Driver Shift Control (which offers clutchless manual shifting), electronically controlled engine braking, downgrade detection with brake assist, and Performance Algorithm Liftfoot.

Chassis management and vehicle control systems on the SRX offer a high level of sophistication to respond accordingly to all types of driving conditions. Features include the latest four-channel StabiliTrak active suspension control and a segment-first option of Magnetic Ride Control, which uses electronically controlled magnetic-fluid based real time damping to create the world's fastest reacting suspension control system. Speed sensitive variable effort steering, four-channel ABS with Panic Brake Assist and traction control are included.


Significant changes for the 2007 SRX’s redesigned cabin use softer surfaces, new flush-mounted switches and controls, along with enhanced storage capacity. The new design features a clever “hidden” storage compartment on the passenger side of the instrument panel. The wood trim on the passenger side opens to reveal a wide, added storage bin above the existing glove box.

The new SRX cabin utilizes Cadillac’s new “cut-and-sew” interior process that combines advanced technology with the hand-rendered precision of expert craftsmen. Coverings for components such as the instrument panel, center console and door trim are cut, sewn and wrapped mostly by hand.

“The SRX is the latest and most complete example of our new approach to interiors, blending advanced technology with the hand craftsmanship that was once – and is again becoming – a Cadillac trademark,” says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “This new interior adds to SRX’s compelling package of design, performance, luxury and value, within the practicality of a crossover vehicle.”

At 2.96 metres, the Cadillac SRX has one of the longest wheelbases in its class, providing an unusual amount of rear legroom. Usually, the SRX is a five-seater with a spacious cargo area. The rear seats can be asymmetrically split and folded down, increasing the cargo volume to over 1960 litres. A third row of seats can also be ordered, enabling up to seven people to enjoy the luxurious interior. In order that the cargo bed can still be used, the third row can be power-folded into the floor at the touch of a button.

The five-seat version of the SRX offers another useful option; a cargo system behind the second row of seats provides practical storage alternatives. Three large compartments integrated into the floor can accommodate items of differing sizes and are equipped with easily removable receptacles. A cargo shade and cargo net always ensure a tidy appearance at the back. 

 

A further optional innovation feature is “Ultra View”, a huge glass sliding roof that is operated electrically. The resulting aperture when open gives occupants the pleasure of an open-air driving experience, or when closed an airy, light-flooded interior.

The latest SRX has significantly enhanced in-vehicle electronics and entertainment including, for the first time on the SRX, the option of the premium Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround digital audio system. Another option for SRX buyers is a “theatre” package consisting of Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround, DVD navigation and rear-seat DVD entertainment. The Bose sound system that has previously been offered as an option now becomes a standard feature.

From early in 2007, SRX-appeal will be further enhanced with a new Sport Package. This adds a fresh exterior look with front and rear sport fascias, 18-inch aluminium wheels, sport grille and dual chrome exhaust tips.

The SRX is being built alongside its CTS, CTS-V, STS and STS-V stable mates at GM’s award-winning Lansing Grand River Assembly Center in Lansing, Mich., USA.

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