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2005 Cadillac SRX Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
2005 Cadillac SRX Review
Cadillac's crossover SUV gets only detail changes for 2005. SRX seats up to seven and offers V6 and V8 engines. The only transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Rear-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive optional. Intended for on-road use, the AWD system does not include low-range gearing. V6s come on 17-inch wheels and offer, as optional, the 18s standard on V8s. Any SRX can be ordered with GM's Magnetic Ride Control suspension that automatically adjusts firmness based on road surface. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and leather upholstery are standard. So are front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags covering the front two seating rows. A split folding 2nd-row seat slides 4 inches fore/aft for extra leg room or cargo space. An available 3rd-row seat is power operated to fold flush with the cargo floor. It replaces an available compartmentalized storage bin. V8s include wood interior trim, heated front seats, and power-adjustable pedals; all are available for V6s. Also optional are rear DVD entertainment, Cadillac's UltraView sunroof with a 5.6-square-foot opening, and UltraViewPlus that adds a vented glass panel over the 3rd-row seat. For '05, the SRX gauge cluster adds chrome accents, a towing package is optional for V6 models as well as V8s, and rated towing capacity increases 1000 lb to 4250.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.

Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
News
Detroit detectives see no big changes for SRX until it's fully redesigned for 2009. Meantime, the '07 models will reportedly get an interior revamp. A higher-performance V8 SRX-V had looked a strong prospect, but its status is unclear now that gas prices are high and sales of thirsty SUVs are down. We'll get back to you.
2005 Cadillac SRX Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration (V8 models) Fuel economy
Passenger and cargo room Navigation-system controls
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
6 7 7 6

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, though slow to respond to manual-mode inputs.
Fuel Economy

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
4 4 3 3.3

Test V6 AWD models averaged 17.1 mpg in mix of city/highway travel, just 13.6 in test that included mostly city driving and gas-eating performance tests. Test V8 AWD averaged 15.0 mpg in mixed driving. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
Ride Quality

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 7 7 5.3

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

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 6 7 5.4

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 and slow to react for others.
Quietness

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 7 7 6.2

Premium-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

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 7 7 6.3

Angular, hi-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)

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 7 7 7.6

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)

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 7 7 6.3

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

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
7 7 7 7.5

Minimal space with 3rd-row seat in position, but power-folding 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

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
9 8 8 5.9

Against similarly priced premium midsize SUVs, SRX is among the best in performance, features, and accommodations, if not always in the quality of cabin appointments. But unless you off-road or tow heavy loads, the SRX's road manners and efficient packaging make it preferable to most truck-type rivals. Add AWD security, and it's a thoughtful alternative to a traditional luxury sedan. That's Best Buy material in this class.
Total Score

AWD V6 2WD V8 AWD V8 Class Average
68 67 67 59.8
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
36
Average Score
59
High Score
70
2005 Cadillac SRX Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/06/2005
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
V6 4-door wagon $38,340 $35,465 $695
V8 4-door wagon $50,135 $46,375 $695
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
V6
Powertrain
3.6-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, front and 2nd-row curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, rear-obstacle-detection system, wiper-activated headlights, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, OnStar assistance system w/one-year service, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio and climate controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, cupholders, 2nd-row adjustable split folding seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, fog lights, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/65HR17 front tires, 255/60HR17 rear tires, alloy wheels.
V8 adds to V6:
Powertrain
4.6-liter V8 engine.
Safety
Tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Rear air conditioning, heated front seats, 8-way power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, pedals), wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood interior trim, power sunroof, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, driver-side automatic day/night mirror, universal garage-door opener, rear storage system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rack.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/60VR18 front tires, 255/55VR18 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB
V6
$2,640
$2,244
Rear air conditioning, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood interior trim, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, driver-side automatic day/night mirror, universal garage-door opener, rear storage system.
Luxury Performance Option Pkg. 1SC
V8
$6,920
$5,882
Navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, satellite radio (requires monthly fee after 3rd month), 3rd-row power-stowable seat, xenon headlights w/washers, trailering equipment (heavy-duty engine cooling, wiring harness), Magnetic Ride Control Suspension.
Luxury Comfort Pkg.
V6
$925
$786
Heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, satellite radio (requires monthly fee after 3rd month).
Luxury Utility Pkg.
V6
$2,250
$1,913
All-wheel drive, tire-pressure monitor, power-stowable 3rd-row seat, Bose sound system. Requires Option Pkg. 1SB. Deletes rear storage system.
5-Passenger Value Pkg.
V6
$3,725
$3,166
Luxury Comfort Pkg. plus UltraView power sunroof, 235/60VR18 front tires, 255/55VR18 rear tires, bright alloy wheels. Requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB. NA w/navigation system.
7-Passenger Value Pkg.
V6
$5,975
$5,079
5-passenger Value Pkg. plus Luxury Utility Pkg. Requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB.
Trailering Equipment Pkg.
V6, V8
$250
$213
Heavy-duty engine cooling, wiring harness.
Powertrain
All-wheel drive
V6, V8
$1,900
$1,615
V6 requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB.
Limited-slip differential
V6, V8
$295
$251
NA w/all-wheel drive.
Comfort and Convenience Features
UltraView power sunroof
V6
$1,800
$1,530
Includes power sunshades. V6 requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB. Std. V8.
UltraView Plus power sunroof
V6 w/Pkg. 1SB and Luxury Utility Pkg.
$2,250
$1,913
V6 w/Pkg. 1SC, V8
$450
$383
Includes venting sunroof over 3rd-row seat, power sunshades.
Navigation system
V6
$1,995
$1,696
Requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB., Luxury Utility Pkg.
Satellite radio
V6, V8
$325
$276
Requires monthly fee after 3rd month. V6 requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB.
3rd-row power-stowable seat
V8
$1,000
$850
Deletes rear storage system.
Power-adjustable pedals
V6
$150
$128
Includes memory. Requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB.
Heated front seats
V6
$450
$383
Requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine-block heater
V6, V8
$100
$85
Special paint
V6, V8
$995
$846
Mud guards
V6, V8
$95
$81
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Trailer hitch
V6, V8
$385
$327
Requires Trailering Equipment Pkg.
18-inch alloy wheels
V6
$1,000
$850
Includes 235/60VR18 front tires, 255/55VR18 rear tires. Requires Luxury Option Pkg. 1SB.
2005 Cadillac SRX Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Cadillac SRX 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 116.0
Overall Length, in. 195.0
Overall Width, in. 72.6
Overall Height, in. 67.8
Curb Weight, lbs. 4438
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 69.5
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 20.0
Seating Capacity 7
Front Head Room, in. 40.3
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.1
Rear Head Room, in. 38.4
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 41.0
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc V6 dohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 3.6 /217 4.6 /279
Horsepower @ rpm. 255 @ 6500 320 @ 6400
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 254 @ 3200 315 @ 4400
Availability Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
   
5-speed automatic 16/22 15/20
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Cadillac SRX 4-door wagon
Front Impact, Driver 4
Front Impact, Passenger 4
Side Impact, Driver 5
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 6/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance 4/50,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- Premium Care standard on XLR. Includes oil and oil filter replacement, engine air filter replacement, and passenger compartment air filter replacement at regularly scheduled maintenance intervals for the first four years or 50,000 miles.
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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