2004 Cadillac SRX: Road Test
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2004 Cadillac SRX ▼
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- MSRP: $37,995 -$46,595
- Invoice: $35,145 -$43,100
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Our road test for the 2004 Cadillac SRX includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Cadillac SRX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Cadillac SRX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Cadillac SRX help you decide if a 2004 Cadillac SRX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Test V6 AWD did 7.6 sec 0-60 mph, with fine movement away from a stop and in around-town traffic, but tepid response in high-speed freeway passing maneuvers. V8 models have tangible advantage only in highway passing power and in climbing long grades. No opportunity to time V8 version, but Cadillac claims 6.9 sec 0-60 mph with AWD V8. Transmission shifts well enough, through slow to respond to manual-mode inputs. Trailering option boosts towing capacity to 4250 lb, from standard 2000 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.3 |
Test V6 AWD models averaged 17.1 mpg in mix of city/highway travel, just 13.6 in test that included mostly driving and gas-eating performance tests. No opportunity to measure with V8 yet. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.9 |
Among better-riding SUVs of any stripe, but not luxury-sedan absorbent. Rear end in particular reacts abruptly to sharp bumps or cracks, peaked ridges. Little bob or wallow over highway crests, dips.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 5.2 |
Also among the class leaders, if not up to BMW, Infiniti, Porsche competitors for quick, confident moves. Substantial weight and slightly elevated ride height contribute to some unwieldy feel in fast maneuvers, but overall balance, grip in turns is good. Testers divided on steering: natural and precise to some, slightly artificial, slow to react for others.
QUIETNESS
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Near-luxury-car isolation from road noise and most mechanical ruckus. Some testers cited wind rush around outside mirrors at highway speed, others considered V6 too coarse in rapid acceleration.
CONTROLS
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Angular, high-tech shapes. Large, clear gauges. Most controls easy to reach and understand, though role of multifunction steering-wheel buttons not always obvious. Driver looks to floor console for transmission gear position because it's displayed in main instrument pod only during manual-shift mode. Navigation system integrates some audio functions, complicating simple adjustments. Cabin's leather upholstery, wood accents (wood optional on V6) contribute to upscale ambience. But some interior panels flex easily when pressed, and various plastic storage-bin covers have low-budget feel. One test example suffered rattling 2nd-row seats, on another, the brake-pedal pad fell off.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Ample head and leg room. Comfortable, supportive seats. Steering wheel tilts manually; top rivals offer power tilt/telescope operation. Thick roof pillars impede outward visibility to sides and rear. Entry requires taller step-in than car-based roots would suggest.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Second-row elevated slightly for "theater-seating" feel, slides fore/aft to create generous leg room, though right-side cushion contour squeezes passenger. Head clearance OK even with sunroof. Wider doorways would aid entry/exit. Hard-to-access 3rd row best suited for child use, though not as cramped as might be expected.
CARGO ROOM
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Minimal space with 3rd-row seat in position, but power-fold feature a useful convenience, though slow acting. Second row folds with moderate effort and rests nearly flat. With both folded, overall cargo volume mimics large station wagon rather than tall, traditional SUV. Available triple-compartment rear storage bin a smart feature. Good in-cabin storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Unless you off-road or tow heavy loads, the SRX's premium-car manners and efficient packaging make it preferable to a truck-type luxury SUV. Add AWD security, and it's a thoughtful--if pricey--alternative to a traditional luxury sedan. Against SUV rivals, SRX is competitive in performance and accommodations, if not always materials and build quality.
Total Score
| V6 AWD | V8 2WD | V8 AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 66 | 65 | 66 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 66
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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