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2013 Cadillac SRX

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2013 Cadillac SRX Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.2

The Cadillac SRX is a 5-passenger mid-size luxury crossover SUV that competes well against rivals such as the Lexus RX, Audi Q5 and BMW X3. The 2013 SRX is defined by its angular and athletic looks, a strong engine, and the plush cabin and creature comforts expected in a Cadillac. While not as athletic as a BMW X3 or as comfortable as a Lexus RX, the slightly larger Cadillac SRX comes standard with a V6 engine, offers commendable cargo room, and boasts high-tech features such as the new CUE infotainment system. Add in its chiseled looks and competitive starting price, and it's easy to see why the SRX has become one of Cadillac's top sellers.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you want a luxury SUV with distinctive styling, a manageable size, high-tech features and an appealing starting price, the 2013 Cadillac SRX should be on your consideration list.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you regularly carry adults in the rear seats, a vehicle with more rear legroom such as the BMW X5, Mercedes M-Class or the less-expensive Acura RDX might be a better option. If resale value is a major factor in your buying decision, consider the Lexus RX or Audi Q5. The SRX's fuel economy also remains underwhelming.

KBB Expert Ratings

  • 7.2
  • 7.1
  • 7.9
  • 6.9
  • 6.9
  • 9.9
How It Ranks

#18

out of 29

MPG

#3

out of 29

Horsepower
View all rankings

Consumer Rating

7.9 out of 10
View all
consumer ratings
2013 Cadillac SRX Low/wide front photo What's New for 2013

The 2013 SRX has been freshened with a new front fascia that includes LED lighting in the fender vents. Inside, every SRX receives Cadillac's CUE 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Active-noise cancellation aims to make the SRX quieter, and new technology such as adaptive cruise control is available.

Driving the SRX
2013 Cadillac SRX Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions Whether on the highway or a twisty canyon road, the SRX is a capable and competent driving partner. It does not feel as nimble or as quick as a BMW...

X3, but the SRX offers a good balance between comfort and agility. The 3.6-liter V6 that arrived in the vehicle last year is a big improvement over past engine options and provides commendable power. As for steering, the SRX's available speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion system helps the SUV feel sporty and offers good feedback as to what's happening on the road below. The SRX's optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system is a sophisticated one that distributes torque from side to side as well as front to back, which helps the tires retain grip on slippery surfaces.
Favorite Features

CUE SYSTEM
This abbreviation for Cadillac User Experience can also be translated as a top-notch command station for all your audio, phone, climate and navigation needs. This standard system features an 8-inch touch screen that can sync with up to 10 (!) wireless Bluetooth devices. Like tablets and the latest smartphones, the screen recognizes finger swipes and pinch/spread gestures.

DRIVER AWARENESS PACKAGE
This optional system is all about safety. This builds on the SRX's available blind-spot-monitoring and rear cross-traffic systems with features such as a lane-departure warning and Safety Alert Seat, which literally shakes the driver's seat when the vehicle senses potential danger such as drifting from a lane or parking too close to an object.

2013 Cadillac SRX Details
2013 Cadillac SRX Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo Interior

Step inside the 2013 Cadillac SRX and you'll be greeted by a thoroughly modern – some might say futuristic – cabin awash in supple materials and glimmering gauges. The pop-up navigation screen in past models has been replaced by the 8-inch display for the CUE system high in the dash. Surrounding the screen are a few low-profile buttons for oft-used features such as fan speed and volume control. The new instrument cluster features digital readouts in addition to traditional analog gauges for speed and fuel capacity. The front seats are roomy, but the rear can be snug for taller adults. The rear cargo bay offers flexibility and plenty of capacity.

Exterior
2013 Cadillac SRX photo

When the SRX was redesigned for 2010, the formerly long and tall wagon looked like it went on a diet and got ripped. That chiseled look remains for 2013 with the Cadillac's angular sheetmetal, arching side creases, and stylish but visibility-hampering sloped roof. A new grille and front-fender vents with LED light pipes are a tasteful update to the SRX. Large wheels are also part of this SUV's persona, with the smallest being 18 inches and the largest, 20 inches.

Notable Equipment
Standard Equipment

In base form the 2013 SRX offers a decent amount of standard features, but spending a little over $5,000 more and stepping up to the Luxury trim bring a lot more. Base models come with an 8-speaker Bose audio system with dual USB inputs and Bluetooth streaming, dual-zone auto climate control, and keyless entry. The Luxury trim adds the UltraView sunroof, power liftgate, leather seating, heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, power-adjustable pedals, rearview camera, and blind-zone monitoring. The top trim Premium edition brings heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, 10-speaker Bose audio system, and the Driver Awareness Package.

Optional Equipment

AWD can be had on all but base models of the 2013 SRX, and other options vary by trim. Among them are a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, and the Driver Awareness Package with features like lane-departure warning. A trailering provisions option equips the SRX with a hitch and wiring harness, while the pet cargo partition makes it easier to accommodate Fido.

Under the Hood
2013 Cadillac SRX Engine photo

A direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 is standard in the 2013 Cadillac SRX. The engine makes a commendable 308 horsepower but its fuel economy tops out at 24 mpg for the highway. Rivals such as the BMW X3, Acura RDX and Audi Q5 achieve better fuel-economy figures with both 6-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines. Unlike some rivals, the SRX does not require premium gasoline, and the driver-selectable Eco mode is said to slightly improve efficiency by changing transmission shift points. The engine is also flex-fuel capable, meaning it can run on a gasoline/ethanol blend. All Cadillac SRXs employ a 6-speed automatic transmission. The SRX can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

3.6-liter V6
308 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm
265 lb-ft of torque at 2,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/24 mpg (front-wheel drive), 16/23 mpg (AWD)

Pricing Notes

The 2013 Cadillac SRX has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting just over $38,000. A loaded, top-of-the-line version with AWD can reach over $50,000. The SRX's base price is slightly under that of the Lexus RX and BMW X3, and above that of the Acura RDX and Audi Q5. Be sure to check the KBB Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are actually paying for the 2013 Cadillac SRX. Over the long run, the SRX's resale value is expected to be good but trail that of the Lexus RX and Audi Q5.

To find out what consumers are really paying for this vehicle, first select a style to see the Fair Purchase Price| Calculate payments for this vehicle

Get Your Fair Purchase Price See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more.

2013 Cadillac SRX Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating
7.9
Out of 10

Based on 83 Ratings for the 2010 - 2013 models.

Review this car
  • Value
    8.1/10
    Quality
    8.3/10
  • Reliability
    8.3/10
    Performance
    8.0/10
  • Comfort
    8.6/10
    Styling
    8.9/10

Superb vehicle no problems

By Dave (NJ) on Friday, May 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 25,330

10 9.0
overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating
9/10
Value
8/10
Reliability
10/10
Quality
10/10
Performance
10/10
Styling
10/10
Comfort
10/10

Pros: "Fun to drive"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Drove it 3.4 years. All the bells and whistles with no maintenance problems. Very comfortable and stable ride with good hwy mileage. Large display with ONSTSAR nav, Bluetooth hands free calling. Left outside during winter and summer with no rust or paint fade - still looks and acts like new. Could have a bit more cargo space."

Absolutely love this car!!!!!

By Nurse1973 (CA) on Sunday, April 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,000

10 10.0
overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating
10/10
Value
10/10
Reliability
10/10
Quality
10/10
Performance
10/10
Styling
10/10
Comfort
10/10

Pros: "Design, plenty of leg room, and CUE!!!!"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Absolutely love this car. Bold design, plenty of leg room ( extra plus since I'm 5'10), comfortable. CUE is awesome and easy to use. Blind side alerts are an excellent safety feature! Smooth ride, very quiet engine. Plenty of storage"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

Excellent

By robertc (GA) on Thursday, March 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

10 9.0
overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating
9/10
Value
8/10
Reliability
9/10
Quality
9/10
Performance
8/10
Styling
10/10
Comfort
9/10

Pros: "Quality and looks"

Cons: "Need extra 50 horse being turbo"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"little tough on gas since it is turbo and have to use premium gas, but it delivers smooth acceleration specially over 70 mph. Almost everything is covered under warranty. My cost to maintain is near zero out of my pocket. Unless you got lemon this car is built solid."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

A Terrible Car

By Sorry (NV) on Friday, March 22, 2013

I owned and sold this car - My approximate mileage is 17,000

10 2.0
overall rating 2 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating
2/10
Value
5/10
Reliability
8/10
Quality
8/10
Performance
1/10
Styling
10/10
Comfort
1/10

Pros: "Just Looks"

Cons: "See below"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I bought this car as a temporary vehicle to tide me over for what I thought would be less than a year, and it turned out to be almost two. For looks and design I give it 10 out of 10. A nice interior, and that's where it ends. This car is drastically underpowered with a noisy engine, and a transmission that is jerky and always searching for the right gear. The ride is horrible and you feel the slightest bump. Add to that the seats that have the same comfort as a park bench. Gas mileage is very poor and under the best conditions with a light foot in city driving is about 16 MPG. I've had a lot of new Cadillacs over the years, and I have never disliked a car as much as this one. If you enjoy the ride of a 1947 Chevy pickup, you'll love this car. I traded for the new 2013 Cadillac XTS and love everything about it, so I'm not anti Cadillac. You really need to think twice about buying a 2010 or 2011 SRX, and then walk away from it. One last thought, I was loaned a 2013 SRX while my XTS was in for a minor service, and in fairness they beefed up the engine, and slightly softened the ride...not a lot, but some."

7 people out of 8 found this review helpful

Great vehicle! One of my favorite cars ever owned

By CKing (AL) on Monday, March 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 38,000

10 9.0
overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating
9/10
Value
9/10
Reliability
10/10
Quality
10/10
Performance
9/10
Styling
9/10
Comfort
10/10

Pros: "Great vehicle, fun to drive and looks great!"

Cons: "Wide support beam on each side of windshield."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had a lot of cars and this is one of my all-time favorites. I bought it new and have never regretted the decision. It drives and handles great, has plenty of power and is comfortable. The only con about the vehicle is the wide support beam on each side of the windshield, which can create a blind spot if you are not aware of it. I've had no problems with any of the mechanics or electrical functions and plan to drive it for several more years."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

Not a traditional Cadillac

By 1979L82 (MN) on Thursday, January 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000

10 8.0
overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating
8/10
Value
5/10
Reliability
9/10
Quality
7/10
Performance
10/10
Styling
8/10
Comfort
9/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, good materials."

Cons: "Not built in USA"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 2

"Very good handling. Average MPG. Nice styling ques. Too much engine noise. Ride very stiff. Seats very wide. Very easy to enter/exit vehicle. Excellent brakes."

10 people out of 11 found this review helpful

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