2010 Cadillac SRX

The base 3.0L gas direct-injection V-6, rated 265 hp, gives the 2010 Cadillac SRX best specific output in its class, Schneider says. The 3.0L, derived from the CTS's 3.6 "high-feature" V-6, is available with FWD or AWD, either one about 20 lb heavier than a similarly equipped Lexus RX, the new Caddy's main target. Like the RX, it's available only with two rows of seats, and Cadillac expects the 2010 SRX to match its archrival in fuel economy. With a 21-gal tank, range will top 500 miles.

An updated grille and large, vertical headlights share space on the front end with fog lights more subtle than the blocky ones found on the 2009 SRX. Fake side vents behind the front wheel wells leads to two body creases that carry to the rear of the 2010 Cadillac SRX, where you'll find taillights that give a nod to finned-Caddys of the past. That's just a nod, mind you, as the 2010 SRX is a thoroughly modern design -- but is it attractive?

Interior style and craftsmanship continues GM's march upscale, with hand-cut and sewn material covering the dash and ambient lighting that mimics that in high-end hotel rooms. The CTS's popular pop-up nav screen is employed here and displays directional lines on the rearview camera screen. A dual-screen rear entertainment system, adaptive front lighting, and a sound system with USB MP3-player interface are offered in the 2010 Cadillac SRX. An electric parking brake frees up valuable center-console real estate and saves mass.

Even with so much uncertainty and gloom surrounding Detroit and Washington these days, it's a welcome surprise for GM to continue its efforts to push next-generation fuel-saving technologies in its vehicles. Whether or not this is all too little too late for the struggling automaker has yet to be seen, but we're quite certain it won't hinder its cause.

When the president of Government Motors cracks the change whip, Cadillac executives need only cite the new 2010 SRX crossover to acknowledge that the message has been received. Key differences in the 2010 edition include an engine and transmission rotated 90 degrees, primary propulsion reassigned to the front wheels, and nary a V-8 or a third row in sight. Also, the Cadillac SRX's manufacturing site was shifted south of the border, and the base price drops by more than $5000.

These dramatic changes aren't just to impress the boss. Tired of the Cadillac SRX's status as a sideshow in the crossover circus, Cadillac is picking a fight with what marketing boss Steve Shannon calls the class's 800-pound gorilla: the Lexus RX350.

Enthusiasts across the land depressed by the ever increasing curb weight and dimensions of new vehicles can breathe easy today. The 2010 Cadillac SRX is actually a little smaller than the car it replaces, and it boasts some impressive new technology under the hood.

Though it's gunning for RX owners, we can't help but wonder if the 2010 SRX will woo former Escalade owners as well. The economy may force them to downsize, but who says they should give up any social status in the process?

GM announced today that the new 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover pricing will start at just $34,155 when it goes on sale this summer, handily undercutting the base prices of similar offerings from Audi, Lexus, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz.

"We believe the Cadillac SRX offers emotional appeal to a segment previously devoid of much of that," said Steve Shannon, executive director of marketing for Cadillac. "At the same time, it also has very practical new features such as advanced All-Wheel-Drive, and an efficient standard 3.0-liter Direct Injection V6 engine. And with an entry price of $34,155 the new 2010 SRX presents an attractive offer to consumers, while taking on the traditional segment leader aggressively."

The 2010 Cadillac SRX is sharp, hard-edged and wedgy, playing Cadillac "Art & Science" design language to the hilt, from the vertically rectangular headlamp covers that extend to a point atop the front fenders to the LED taillamps designed to evoke 1950s tailfins.

SRX's new profile is pleasing to the eye, and not just ours, judging from the reaction of fellow motorists. It's only the dead-on rear view that betrays the limitations of making a tall two-box vehicle look sexy.

Simply put, the new 2010 Cadillac SRX drives the way it looks: sexy, fun, apart from the pack. It's full of brand flavor, even if budget shortcuts reveal ragged edges under some of the covers.