2012 Cadillac SRX Review

For 2012, the Cadillac SRX has received an update front and rear end and wheels.. A new six speed transmission with manual shifting modes will be available for the 2012 model. Also the new transmission features a fuel-saving Eco mode. The suspension has been re-tuned for crisper handling.  A new Bose audio system is offered, while the blue tooth and heated steering wheel has been made standard across the line up.

Power Plant and Performance

A number of changes has been incorporated for the 2012 model to address the shortcomings; the most prominent one seen under the hood.  A new 3.6 liter V6 has been introduced to the lineup, replacing the previous engine choices. This new engine is brisker and smoothly revs to the redline than the previous V6 engines. Previously a choice of either 3.0 liter V6 or 2.8 turbocharge V6 as offered.  The new V6 engine replaces both these engines. It pumps out 308 horsepower and delivers 265 pound feet of torque at wheels.  Cadillac SRX is offered both in two wheel drive and all wheel drive versions. The two wheel drive version drives the forward wheels, which makes it more fuel efficient that the rear wheel driven SUVs. Cadillac SRX does 0-60mph in 7.1 seconds, which is again pretty impressive figure in its class.

Cadillac SRX has also improved on the mileage; the new Eco-mode in the transmission conserves the fuel by 1mpg. The current EPA ratings for the front wheel driven version stands at 17mpg in the city driving and 24mpg highway; with the combined rating being 19mpg.  The fuel economy figures for the all wheel drive AWD version are 16/23/18. Cadillac SRX has a towing capability of 3500 pounds. The interior follows the Cadillac’s philosophy of luxury and is equipped with desirable features that are usually absent in the competing models. The cabin is quiet and gives a comfortable ride. However, despite numerous changes, Cadillac SRX is still 200–300 pounds heavier than the competitive models; something that Cadillac has not bothered about much. The rear seat headroom is also cramped and suffers from poor outward visibility.

The Cadillac 2012 comes standard with anti lock disc brakes, airbags in the front and side and stability and traction control. The braking prowess can be judged from the fact that this vehicle boasts the best braking in its class; it comes to rest from 60mph in 120 feet.  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has rated the 2012 Cadillac SRX  “Good” in frontal and side impact tests.

Trim Levels

For the year 2012, Cadillac has announced the four trim levels for the SRX: Base, Luxury, Performance and Premium.

Base: The base model comes with minimalist features of all the trim levels. It features 18 inch alloy wheels, roof rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights, keyless entry, remote engine start, Bluetooth, cruise control, 8 speaker Bose sound system, satellite radio, auxiliary audio input jack and an iPod/USB interface. The upholstery is leatherette. Pricing starts from $35,485 MSRP

Luxury: In addition to the features found in the base trim, the luxury adds front and rear parking sensors, powered outside mirrors, sunroof, automatic wipers, heated front seats, eight way powered passenger seats, fully powered lift-gate with option to adjust the height. The interior adds leather upholstery. Adjustable power pedals, heated steering wheels, driver memory functions and thigh support has been added for the driver’s comfort and ergonomics. Rearview camera and voice activated navigation has also been added to aid the driver. The Bose sound system gets an upgrade with 10 speakers, iPod/USB interface and digital media storage. Pricing starts from MSRP $ 40,015

Performance: The Performance trim adds 20 inch Alloy wheels, and sports tuned suspension; the all wheel drive version adds adaptive dampers. This trim also adds fog lamps, updated navigation and adaptive xenon headlights. The Bose system gets an upgrade and now gets surround system. Prices starts from $43,830

Premium: The Premium is the top of the line model featuring automatic climate control in all the three zones, ventilated front seats, audio controls in the rear seats for the occupants and heated rear seats. Prices starts from MSRP $49,085.

 

Pros

Thanks to the numerous revisions and refinements, the Cadillac SRX Luxury crossover SUV even gets more appealing than ever before. It comes with features not seen on competing models. Handling is superb and cabin is classy with smart infotainment system.

Cons

The only undesirable thing about the Cadillac SRX is the limited headroom and outside visibility in the backseat.