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2010 Cadillac SRX4 Performance Review

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Justin Pritchard
SRX4 3.0 packed full of style and character, but rough ride spoils slightly
3.0 VVT Direct Injection, AWD
The SRX is available with a potent, smooth and aurally-pleasing 2.8-litre turbocharged V6, though the tester was motivated by the entry-level powerplant. This consists of a non-boosted 3.0-litre V6 that employs hardware like direct injection and variable valve timing to generate an impressive 265 horsepower, alongside a promise of very efficient fuel use.

The SRX is available with a potent, smooth and aurally-pleasing 2.8-litre turbocharged V6.

The engine is typically gentle, accelerating the SRX discreetly when operated by drivers who aren't in a rush. Opened up, an exciting and high-revving power curve comes to life, thanks partly to some variable intake and valve-timing tricks. Power output ramps up between 5,000 and 7,000 RPM, alongside an increase in exhaust volume and output. Some will find the engine’s sound too high in volume, though my passengers and I unanimously agreed that it sounded gorgeous.

Adequate performance for most
Performance isn’t neck-snapping, though it should prove pleasing and adequate for drivers who don’t mind visiting the higher segments of the tachometer. Driven as such, the SRX will suck back fuel quickly-- though Cadillac promises exceptional mileage overall.

No such luck on this writers’ watch, though. My average consumption of about 15 L/100 km left a bit of room for improvement, though extreme late December cold and excessive remote starting likely didn’t help the figure. I turned in the low-mileage tester hoping for a future re-evaluation with a more thoroughly broken-in model.

Sporty and sharp
With SRX's optional AWD system on board, off-the-line traction proved a non-issue on virtually any winter surface. Its operation is seamless, though some enthusiasts will wish for a more rear-biased dynamic and the frisky slideability that comes with it.

The SRX’s steering is pleasantly quick and sharp, and wouldn’t feel out of place in a sporty sedan. There’s even a stiffened-up suspension setting available when drivers call up 'sport' mode with the gear selector.

The tester’s all-season footwear prevented safe exploration of handling limits during the wintertime test, though drivers can expect above-average responsiveness from the steering backed by stable and flat body movements. The SRX should feel comfortable being driven spiritedly, if that’s your thing.

The SRX’s steering is pleasantly quick and sharp.
Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert
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