We review the 2010 Cadillac SRX AWD 4dr 2.8T Performance
Editor’s Note: the SRX is now replaced by the Cadillac XT5 crossover
Arguably, one of the hottest CUVs on the market (going all Geek-to-Chic from last year’s version, Maury Povich styles), the 2010 Cadillac SRX will now certainly turn some heads, for all the right reasons. Renowned for their grandiose, full-size Escalade SUV, Cadillac’s SRX is the better option for those families looking for something a little more (ok, a lot more) scaled down with better fuel economy without compromising luxury and sufficient cargo. While the CTS wagon is certainly a compelling option, the SRX plays in a luxury segment that’s hitting home with most families these days.
SRX features
This AWD turbo version starts at $55,870 Cdn MSRP and comes equipped with a decent list of standards all around. Add the two options you’ll likely want (as equipped on this tester), and the price jumps significantly to $62,445—including 20”x8” tech aluminum wheels over the standard painted cast aluminum version of the same size and a Navigation/Audio upgrade, both at $1190 and $5285, respectively. But you’ve got choices, nine SRX versions to choose from, to be exact, including the entry-level FWD 4-door model starting at $41,575 to the AWD 4-door 2.8T Premium at $62,770. Our SRX, the second highest of the bunch, is the AWD 4-door 2.8T Performance.
Inside the SRX
Fortunately, this second-coming of the 2010 SRX went under the knife, resulting in a bolder, sexier, much more confident styled version than the outgoing 2009 SRX, that was, frankly, an ambiguous half-wagon, half-truck, part hearse looking thing with a severe identity crises. With a completely restyled backend and retaining Cadillac’s iconic styling cues, our new Imperial Blue Metallic SRX is all grown-up sporting long, sleek lines with sharp cut edges from front to the dual chromed exhaust tipped back. The ultra-view double-sized power tilt/sliding glass sunroof with express open power sunshade is standard. Also standard, body-coloured power folding heated mirrors, Solar-Ray tinted glass with privacy tint on rear doors, and stunning LED tail lamps.
Cabin
Exterior styling flows to the spacious cabin that finds heated leather seating surfaces; 8-way power driver and 6-way power passenger seats; automatic dual-zone climate control AC with air filtration and rear console vents; four auxiliary power outlets; auto-dimming rearview mirror with OnStar; and remote keyless entry with illuminated entry/exit lights, all standard in a long list of inclusions. No-charge entertainment includes Bluetooth for phone and voice recognition; USB port; roof-mounted hexband antenna; and CD/MP3 stereo mated to a 8-speaker premium Bose system. If luxury is really your thing, you’ll definitely look to upgrade to the HDD-based navigation system with pop-up nav screen, CD/DVD/MP3 stereo with a 10-speaker 5.1 surround setup. This’ll add nearly $5300 to the bottom line, but includes a plethora unmentioned upgrades (rear view camera, rear seat entertainment with screens, etc.) you’re SRX probably couldn’t live without.
Under the hood
The 2.8-litre SFI turbocharged V6 produces 300-hp—an optional engine on all AWD trims, with a 3.0-litre VVT direct injection V6 engine standard. The AWD finds a 6-speed auto transmission including driver shift control, down grade detection, and electronic limited slip differential. The sporty styling is matched by a sport-tuned suspension with continuous variable real time suspension damping. Standard safety features are plentiful, including traction control system, StabilTrak stability control system, trailer sway control, and OnStar in-vehicle assistance with a one-year service included, to name just a few.
Learn more about the SRX replacement Cadillac XT5
