‘Crossover’ with attitude
Cadillac has enjoyed a roaring success in recent years, transformed from an aging luxury brand weighed down by padded roofs and a geriatric image to a happening collection of hip-hop Escalades and sporty CTS sedans.
With new styling that has been described as “knife edge,” Cadillac has carved out a unique niche that’s distinctly different from such competitors as Lexus and Mercedes-Benz.
The beefy Escalades have retained their hold as custom-wheeled status symbols beloved by urban youth. And CTS cars can be seen zooming around the racetrack at Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, which would never have happened with Grandpa’s DeVille.
The latest Caddy with an attitude is the SRX, a luxurious “crossover” vehicle that combines the attributes of a passenger car, minivan and SUV. What it is, really, is a tall station wagon built on the chassis of the sharp-handling CTS.
Going up against such crossovers as Lexus RX 330, Mercedes-Benz M Class and Chrysler Pacifica, SRX has the look and performance to uphold Cadillac’s new image. For affluent drivers who shy away from minivans, SRX provides the space without the bulk, as well as plenty of style.
The test car was powered by a powerful V-8, an option that trumps the mostly V-6-powered crossover field, as well as optional all-wheel drive.
SRX lacks the mighty presence of Escalade, however, and seems destined to appeal more to suburban families than sports stars. Still, it should be another score for the turnaround king of luxury cars.
