2005 Cadillac SRX: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.