Used 2014 Cadillac SRX

The Cadillac SRX is a stylish, sophisticated 5-passenger crossover SUV that has helped the luxury brand reach younger buyers. Though the SRX is now four years into its current generation, it still competes well against rivals such as the Lexus RX, BMW X3 and Audi Q5. While not as athletic as the BMW or as comfortable as the Lexus, the slightly larger Cadillac SRX comes standard with a powerful (but rather thirsty) V6 engine, impressive safety features and loads of technology based around its CUE touch-screen infotainment system. Add in chiseled looks and a competitive starting price, and it’s easy to see why the SRX is one of Cadillac’s best sellers.

On both highways and canyon roads, the 2014 SRX is a competent companion. At around 4,300 pounds or more, it doesn’t feel as quick or nimble as a BMW X3, but the Cadillac offers a good balance of agility and the comfort for which this brand is known. The 308-horsepower V6 that arrived for duty two years ago does a good job getting the SUV up to speed and is a big improvement over the SUV’s past powerplants. The speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion system used on higher trims of the SRX gives this midsize SUV a sportier feel and offers good road feedback. If you routinely drive on snow-covered or slick roads, consider the all-wheel-drive (AWD) option offered on all but base trims. The system improves traction with the ability to shift power to wheels with the best grip.

The SRX’s cabin is thoroughly modern, and then some. Last year’s introduction of the CUE infotainment is something of a double-edged sword. With its touch-sensitive 8-inch display, the system is sophisticated, but requires a steep learning curve to operate when driving. The front seats are roomy, though the 3-passenger rear seat can be tight for taller adults. Behind the folding and reclining rear seat is about 30 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s less than a smaller SUV like the Honda CR-V, but ample for all but the biggest shopping splurges. The UltraView sunroof does a good job giving the cabin an airy feel.

Athletic and attractive are just two ways of describing Cadillac’s crossover SUV. The SRX’s sense of style is highlighted by angular sheet metal and a stylish – but visibility-hampering – sloped roof. Prominent creases rise along the sides from just aft the front wheels to below the rear windows, conveying a sense of momentum. The power lift gate – standard on all but base models – is an arm-saver. Twin tailpipes and large, 18- or 20-inch wheels round out a package well-suited for a young executive.

AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Today’s vehicles are safer and smarter than some of us ever could have imagined. One prime example is the SRX’s ability to not only detect an imminent low-speed collision when moving forward or in reverse, but to alert the driver and then, if necessary, intervene by stopping the vehicle.

BOSE SILENCE AND SOUND
In addition to the Bose audio systems that are standard in the 2014 SRX, Cadillac’s crossover SUV comes with Bose Active Noise Cancellation. The system works to hush outside sounds by monitoring them via three microphones, then generating counter signals that essentially cancel out the unwanted noise.

In base form, the 2014 SRX offers a decent set of standard features, but spending around $5,000 more and stepping up to the Luxury trim brings a lot more. Base models come with an 8-speaker Bose sound system with dual USB inputs and Bluetooth streaming, and dual-zone auto climate control. Leatherette is the upholstery in base models. Stepping up to the Luxury trim brings real leather, a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, a rear backup camera, keyless access, and blind-spot monitoring, which is a big help on crowded roads. The top-end Premium trim adds 10-speaker Bose audio, navigation, a ventilated driver’s seat to keep your rump cool, and safety features like lane-departure warning.

AWD can be had on all but base models of the 2014 SRX. Other options vary by trim. Among them are the Driver Assist Package that includes the automatic braking feature and adaptive cruise control. Other goodies of note include a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, Safety Seat Alert (it alerts the driver to a potential collision by vibrating the seat), and a pet cargo partition to accommodate Fido.

The 2014 SRX uses a direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 that makes 308 horsepower, a stout amount for this class and a number that tops most rivals. Unlike some luxury competitors, the SRX does not require premium gasoline, and the driver-selectable Eco mode is said to slightly improve efficiency by changing transmission shift points. For 2014, the SRX is no longer E85 compatible. All Cadillac SRXs employ a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is the SRX’s standard format, with all-wheel drive optional. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. The SRX’s powertrain warranty runs six years or 70,000 miles. Another nice perk is Cadillac’s standard Premium Care Maintenance program, which covers services such as oil changes for four years or 50,000 miles.

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)