The 2007 Cadillac SRX manages to be a class leader in a rather crowded and impressive class, coveted midsize crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) market. The SRX offers powerful engines, superb handling, build quality, material quality, and a solid value. It is no easy feat to lead a class that includes fine offerings from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti. Yet, the SRX is an outstanding example that has many fine qualities and barely a few quibbles.
The Range
Body Styles: crossover SUV
Engines: 3.6-liter V-6, 4.6-liter V-8
Transmissions: five-speed automatic with sport mode and manual shifting, six-speed automatic with sport mode and manual shifting
Models: Cadillac SRX V6, Cadillac SRX V8
What's New
For 2007, the Cadillac SRX receives numerous upgrades and changes. An updated interior offers a redesigned instrument panel and center console, while the quality of interior materials is improved. For the exterior, there is now an optional sport package for all-wheel-drive models. It adds a unique grille, front and rear sport fascias, four-inch dual polished exhaust tips, choice of 20-inch wheels and a limited-slip differential. A new surround-sound audio system is now available. The SRX V8 trim is upgraded with a six-speed automatic transmission. Like many GM products, the SRX is now covered by a new five-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Exterior
The 2007 Cadillac SRX midsize luxury SUV is offered in two trim levels that are defined by the choice of a V-6 or V-8 engine. The V6 model includes 17-inch alloy wheels, while the V8 model upgrades to the bigger engine and adds 18-inch alloys and xenon HID headlights. Most of the features on the V8 trim are available options on the V6. The notable stand-alone exterior option for both trims is a Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Either trim can add the Sport Package, which features larger 18- or 20-inch wheels, a unique fascia, and a limited-slip differential.
Interior
On the inside, the V6 trim offers OnStar telematics, leather seating, a Bose audio system with CD player and XM satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, full power features, and rear park assist. Moving up to the V8 trim adds heated front seats, a tire-pressure monitor, power-adjustable pedals, real wood accents, a power front-passenger seat, and a six-disc CD changer. Optional interior gear for either trim includes a separate, rear air-conditioning system, a third-row seat, an extra-large ""UltraView"" sunroof, a DVD rear entertainment system, surround-sound audio, and a navigation system.
Performance & Handling
The SRX features two different engines, depending on what trim level is chosen. The 3.6-liter V-6 produces 255 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. Going with the higher trim changes to a 4.6-liter V-8 that kicks out 320 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. Both engines hook up to an automatic transmission that offers a sport mode and manual shifting is fitted. The V-6 mates to a five-speed unit while the V-8 makes use of a six-speed unit. Either model/engine choice come in a rear drive or an all-wheel drive. Both engines provide an impressive amount of performance, allowing the SRX to handle traffic situations well and offer some real driving fun.
The SRX’s handling is on par with other segment-leading vehicles, especially if the optional Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension is added. The steering and braking are very solid and responsive, while the SRX handles things on the pavement as well as an Infiniti or a BMW. It’s not often that a vehicle manages to offer a smooth and comfortable ride combined with tight and responsive handling. Doing so makes the SRX a great vehicle and a class leader.
Safety
The extensive list of standard safety equipment for the SRX includes anti-lock disc brakes with a panic assist feature, stability control, and a full complement of airbags, including front-seat side as well as side curtain for the first two rows. In IIHS frontal-offset crash tests, the SRX received the highest rating possible with a ""good."" In NHTSA crash tests, the SRX scored four out of five stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts. The SRX earned a perfect five-star rating for front and rear passengers in side-impact tests.
EPA Fuel Economy
Cadillac SRX V6: 15/22 mpg city/highway
Cadillac SRX V8: 13/20 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Engine options
- Comfortable and roomy interior
- Optional third-row seat
- Ride quality
- Handling
You Won't Like
- V-8’s fuel efficiency
- Some subpar interior materials
Sum Up
A top choice in a crowded segment.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Infiniti FX
- BMW 5 series sports wagon
- Acura MDX
- Hyundai Veracruz
- Saab 9-7x
- Lincoln MKX