2012 Cadillac SRX Review

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2012 Cadillac SRX Review

Posted by Edo Suseno Sabtu, 05 November 2011 0 komentar

2012 Cadillac SRX Review - Now in its third year, the popular 2012 Cadillac SRX luxury crossover has been refined. Highly stylized, the SRX melds aggressive and sporty touches such as Cadillac's prominent shield grille and vertical headlights, along with a low-slung roof and 18-inch aluminum wheels standard on the base trim. New for 2012, the SRX ditches its old engines for a larger 3.6-liter V-6, capable of producing 308 horsepower. The new engine goes a long way to helping the crossover's acceleration catch up to the competition. The six-speed automatic transmission now has an eco feature, helping the SRX maintain similar EPA estimated fuel economy numbers with the bigger engine. Available in four models -- Base, Luxury, Performance and Premium -- the SRX has a variety of options and can be customized with many available features. All models but the base get heated and power leather seats, a heated steering wheel, interior accent lighting and premium audio. Navigation with voice recognition can be added. Performance and Premium versions get 20-inch aluminum wheels standard. The newest SRX is now more capable in what is a very competitive segment, with excellent offerings such as the Lexus RX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes GLK350, and Volvo XC60. Cadillac offers an American counter that's worth checking out.

The Range

Bodystyles: Crossover
Engine: 3.6-liter V-6
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Models: Base, Luxury, Performance, Premium

What's New

A 308-hp direct-injected 3.6-liter V-6 is now the only engine offered in the SRX. Though it makes more power than both outgoing engines, fuel economy doesn't take a serious hit, thanks in part to a new six-speed transmission with an eco-feature. Bluetooth is now standard on all models, and a heated steering wheel is available on all but the base model. Door lock-switches, only on the center console previously, have been added to door panels as well. Black leather upholstery is added to the list of interior color choices.

Exterior

The 2012 SRX is a highly styled crossover with aggressive Cadillac design features such as a multi-piece shield grille, and vertical headlights, giving it a distinct look. Gone are the awkward proportions of the first-generation SRX for a much more fitting application of Cadillac's Art and Science design motif. A wide stance, sweeping roof and fin-like taillights give it an assertive, sporty demeanor. Base and Luxury trims have 18-inch aluminum wheels standard, while Performance and Premium versions get 20-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

Blending comfort, luxury, and technology, the SRX's interior is striking. Heavily derived from the CTS sedan, the SRX includes standard automatic climate control and a premium stereo, while navigation with voice recognition is an option. Black leather upholstery is a new option for 2012. A leather steering wheel is standard on all models, and most trims get a heated steering wheel. Luxury, Performance and Premium models offer many standard features, such as leather and heated seats, ambient lighting package, and rearview camera. The current model affords 61.1 cubic-feet of cargo space.

Performance & Handling

Thanks to its new 3.6-liter 308 horsepower V-6, the 2012 SRX is a better drive than in previous years. Acceleration is much improved with the bigger engine, and the crossover offers responsive handling. Ride is sporty and compliant, and can be upgraded with a sport package that sacrifices ride quality for handling. The SRX is fun to drive, and now more competitive in its class, but burdened by a high curb weight.

Safety

Front and side airbags are standard on the SRX for the front seat passengers and both front and rear seat passengers get side curtain airbags. Anti-roll sensors, electronic Traction and Stability control and OnStar Automatic Crash Response are also standard. Other safety features include a tire pressure monitoring system, and a trailer stability assist feature.