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2008 Cadillac SRX Full Review
Date Published: 5/06/08
Also in the 2008 Cadillac SRX Review:
5.
6.
Cadillac SRX Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Cadillac SRX Review
The 2008 Cadillac SRX gets no major changes of note. This crossover seats up to seven and is available with a V6 or V8 engine. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. V6 models have a 255-hp 3.6-liter engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. V8s use a 320-hp 4.6-liter engine and a 6-speed automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 4250 lb. Available on rear-wheel drive V8 models is GM's Magnetic Ride Control that uses sensors designed to maintain a smooth ride over rough roads. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. SRX's split-folding 2nd-row seat slides 4 inches fore and aft for extra legroom or cargo space. An available 3rd-row seat power folds flush with the cargo floor.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Enclave.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Enclave.
News
SRX will soldier on for now with no big change. A makeover was slated for 2008, but sluggish sales and uncertainty over near-term fuel prices have clouded the model's future. The crunch reportedly comes around decade's end, when Cadillac will either drop the SRX or issue a redesign. A key factor in that decision is the smaller, 5-passenger "BRX" crossover being eyed for 2009-11. Given current market trends, it could sell well enough to make a new SRX unnecessary. The BRX is said to blend the basic Theta architecture of the Chevrolet Equinox/Pontiac Torrent with elements of GM's upcoming Epsilon II car platform. That means V6 power and the usual choice of front- and all-wheel drive. How this all plays out will depend on whether SRX sales firm up between now and then, not to mention the success of GM's current recovery efforts. Stay tuned.
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2008 Cadillac SRX Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (V8 models) | Fuel economy |
| Passenger and cargo room | Navigation-system controls |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Any SRX has fine movement away from a stop and in around-town traffic. We timed an AWD V6 model at 7.6 sec 0-60 mph. Those versions are somewhat slow to respond for highway passing moves, however. We haven't timed a V8 SRX, but that model shows noticeable benefits in high-speed passing or climbing hills.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Any SRX has fine movement away from a stop and in around-town traffic. We timed an AWD V6 model at 7.6 sec 0-60 mph. Those versions are somewhat slow to respond for highway passing moves, however. We haven't timed a V8 SRX, but that model shows noticeable benefits in high-speed passing or climbing hills.
Fuel Economy
In our tests, V6 AWD models averaged 17.1 mpg in a mix of city/highway travel. These same models averaged just 13.6 mpg in tests that included mostly city driving and gas-eating performance tests. The V6 uses regular-grade gas. Cadillac recommends premium for the V8.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
In our tests, V6 AWD models averaged 17.1 mpg in a mix of city/highway travel. These same models averaged just 13.6 mpg in tests that included mostly city driving and gas-eating performance tests. The V6 uses regular-grade gas. Cadillac recommends premium for the V8.
Ride Quality
SRX is among the better-riding SUVs of any stripe, as long as you order the available Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Without it, SRX suffers from lots of bounding and other unwanted body motions even on mildly rippled pavement. Its rear end, in particular, reacts abruptly to sharp bumps and cracks. We are disappointed that GM has discontinued Magnetic Ride Control on V6 models, leaving it only as an option for rear-wheel drive V8 versions. Even then, it's only available when ordered with costly option packages.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 7 | 5.9 |
SRX is among the better-riding SUVs of any stripe, as long as you order the available Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Without it, SRX suffers from lots of bounding and other unwanted body motions even on mildly rippled pavement. Its rear end, in particular, reacts abruptly to sharp bumps and cracks. We are disappointed that GM has discontinued Magnetic Ride Control on V6 models, leaving it only as an option for rear-wheel drive V8 versions. Even then, it's only available when ordered with costly option packages.
Steering/Handling/Braking
SRX's substantial weight and slightly elevated ride height contribute to some unwieldy feel in fast maneuvers, but its overall balance and grip in turns is very good among all SUVs. Our testers are divided on steering feel; it's natural and precise to some, slightly artificial and slow to react for others.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 5.5 |
SRX's substantial weight and slightly elevated ride height contribute to some unwieldy feel in fast maneuvers, but its overall balance and grip in turns is very good among all SUVs. Our testers are divided on steering feel; it's natural and precise to some, slightly artificial and slow to react for others.
Quietness
This crossover offers premium-car isolation from road noise and most mechanical ruckus. Some testers cite wind rush around the outside mirrors at highway speeds, and others consider the V6 to sound too coarse in rapid acceleration. We have no such complaints about the smooth, refined V8.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
This crossover offers premium-car isolation from road noise and most mechanical ruckus. Some testers cite wind rush around the outside mirrors at highway speeds, and others consider the V6 to sound too coarse in rapid acceleration. We have no such complaints about the smooth, refined V8.
Controls
Large, clear gauges are the order of the day, along with controls that are easy to understand. The available navigation system absorbs, but doesn't complicate, audio adjustments.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.2 |
Large, clear gauges are the order of the day, along with controls that are easy to understand. The available navigation system absorbs, but doesn't complicate, audio adjustments.
Details
High-grade leather trim, real wood and metal accents, and visible stitching impart a sophisticated interior ambience that impresses, even among premium SUVs.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 |
High-grade leather trim, real wood and metal accents, and visible stitching impart a sophisticated interior ambience that impresses, even among premium SUVs.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample headroom and legroom. We're disappointed that the steering wheel tilts manually, rather than tilting and telescoping with power operation, a feature that can be found on most of SRX's rivals. Thick roof pillars impede outward visibility to the sides and rear. Entry requires a high step-in, which is unusual for a crossover SUV.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.5 |
The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample headroom and legroom. We're disappointed that the steering wheel tilts manually, rather than tilting and telescoping with power operation, a feature that can be found on most of SRX's rivals. Thick roof pillars impede outward visibility to the sides and rear. Entry requires a high step-in, which is unusual for a crossover SUV.
Room/Comfort (rear)
The 2nd row is elevated slightly for a "theater seating" feel. Its sliding feature creates generous legroom, though the right-side cushion contour squeezes passengers. Head clearance is OK, even with the available sunroof. Wider doorways would aid entry and exit. The hard-to-access 3rd row is best suited for child use, though it's not as cramped as might be expected.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
The 2nd row is elevated slightly for a "theater seating" feel. Its sliding feature creates generous legroom, though the right-side cushion contour squeezes passengers. Head clearance is OK, even with the available sunroof. Wider doorways would aid entry and exit. The hard-to-access 3rd row is best suited for child use, though it's not as cramped as might be expected.
Cargo Room
Cargo space is minimal with the 3rd-row seat in position, but its power folding feature is a useful convenience. The 2nd row folds with moderate effort and rests nearly flat. With both folded, overall cargo volume mimics a large station wagon rather than a tall, traditional SUV. The available triple-compartment rear storage bin is a smart feature. In-cabin storage is good.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.6 |
Cargo space is minimal with the 3rd-row seat in position, but its power folding feature is a useful convenience. The 2nd row folds with moderate effort and rests nearly flat. With both folded, overall cargo volume mimics a large station wagon rather than a tall, traditional SUV. The available triple-compartment rear storage bin is a smart feature. In-cabin storage is good.
Value within Class
SRX is a good choice for performance, features, and accommodations versus similarly priced premium SUVs. Unless you go off-road or tow heavy loads, the SRX's road manners and efficient packaging make it preferable to most traditional SUV rivals. If you shop this crossover, be sure to test one with the available Magnetic Ride Control suspension for best ride comfort.
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 7 | 8 | 6.1 |
SRX is a good choice for performance, features, and accommodations versus similarly priced premium SUVs. Unless you go off-road or tow heavy loads, the SRX's road manners and efficient packaging make it preferable to most traditional SUV rivals. If you shop this crossover, be sure to test one with the available Magnetic Ride Control suspension for best ride comfort.
Total Score
| V6 w/AWD | V8 | V8 w/AWD | Class Average |
| 75 | 74 | 78 | 69.4 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 60 | |
| Average Score | 69 | |
| High Score | 80 |
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2008 Cadillac SRX Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/29/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| V6 4-door wagon | $37,615 | $35,170 | $775 |
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| V8 4-door wagon | $44,615 | $41,715 | $775 |
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
| Model | Rebate & Incentives | Type | Expires |
|
|
|||
| SRX | 5.9%-7.9% financing. | Customer | 06/02/08 |
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, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, OnStar assistance system w/one year service, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio and climate controls, cruise control, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, 2nd-row adjustable split folding seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, remote engine start, Bose AM/FM/CD player, satellite radio, 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, 6-speed automatic transmission, limited-slip differential.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated front seats w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood interior trim, 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
Xenon headlights w/washers.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/60VR18 front tires, 255/55VR18 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Luxury Collection PDP
|
||
|
V6
|
$4,745
|
$3,938
|
|
Rear air conditioning, UltraView power sunroof, heated front seats w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, pedals), heated steering wheel, wood interior trim, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, driver-side automatic day/night mirror, universal garage door opener, rear storage system.
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||
|
Premium Luxury Collection PPQ
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||
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V6
|
$7,945
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$6,594
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|
Luxury Collection plus limited-slip differential, navigation system, Bose AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, xenon headlights w/washers, 235/60VR18 front tires, 255/55VR18 rear tires. Deletes in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Deletes limited-slip differential when ordered w/all-wheel drive.
|
||
|
Ultra Luxury Collection PDW
|
||
|
V8
|
$4,200
|
$3,486
|
|
Rear air conditioning, UltraView power sunroof, heated wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, navigation system, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, upgraded Bose sound system. Deletes in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Requires Tire/Wheel Sport Pkg., Utility Pkg.
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||
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Tire/Wheel Sport Pkg. w/18-inch wheels
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||
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V6
|
$1,405
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$1,166
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|
Limited-slip differential, door sill plates, unique grille and exterior trim, chrome roof rails, chrome exhaust tips, xenon headlights w/washers, 235/60VR18 front tires, 255/55VR18 rear tires, unique alloy wheels. Requires Premium Luxury Collection, Utility Pkg. Deletes limited-slip differential when ordered w/all-wheel drive.
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Tire/Wheel Sport Pkg. w/20-inch wheels
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V8
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$1,695
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$1,407
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Tire/Wheel Sport Pkg. plus 255/55R20 tires. Requires Ultra Luxury Collection, all-wheel drive.
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Theatre Pkg.
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V6, V8
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$1,200
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$996
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Navigation system, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, upgraded Bose sound system, DVD entertainment system. Requires Premium Luxury Collection.
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Utility Pkg.
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V6, V8
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$1,125
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$934
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Power-stowable 3rd-row seat, rear air conditioning, UltraView Plus power sunroof w/venting sunroof over 3rd-row seat and power sunshades, heavy-duty engine and power-steering cooling, trailer-wiring harness. V6 requires Luxury Collection or Premium Luxury Collection. V8 requires Ultra Luxury Collection. Deletes rear storage system.
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Magnetic Ride Control Suspension
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V8
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$1,650
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$1,370
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Requires Ultra Luxury Collection. NA w/all-wheel drive.
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Powertrain |
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All-wheel drive
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V6, V8
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$1,900
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$1,577
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Engine-block heater
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V6, V8
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$100
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$83
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Special paint
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V6, V8
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$995
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$826
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 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 @ 2800 | 315 @ 4400 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 5-speed automatic | 14/22 | --/-- |
| 6-speed automatic | --/-- | 13/20 |
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 |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 3 |
| 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 | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
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
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Cadillac SRX Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Cadillac SRX Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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