On the subject of the new Cadillac's ability to balance utility with sporting driving dynamics, SRX marketing director Jay Spenchian commented, "SRX is a true driver's utility, an innovative entry in a crowded segment." He continued, "SRX is unlike any of the luxury utilities out there. It offers a great look, precise road manners and unprecedented utility."
Part of that utility is a large cargo area, with 238 L (8.4 cu ft) behind the rear seats, 918 L (32.4 cu ft) aft of the 2nd row and a total of 1,968 L (69.5 cu ft) available with all rows folded flat. All rows? That's right. Cadillac went the intelligent route and included a flexible third row during the vehicle's planning stages, making it possible to transport up to seven passengers when needed. The seats in the back aren't particularly easy to get into nor roomy for even small adults, but for families who need a safe and secure place to stow an extra child or two they're ideal. They also fold into the rear cargo floor perfectly via power actuation. While it would be more convenient if GM had found a way to keep the headrests in place during the process, the SRX is still miles ahead of the majority of premium automakers that don't even offer a 3rd row in the first place. That said the new Cadillac can be ordered without the 3rd row, an optional rear cargo management system taking its place.
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| The new Cadillac can be ordered without the 3rd row, an optional rear cargo management system taking its place. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Of course, three rows of seats can produce drawbacks. Despite the SRX's longest in class wheelbase, if the front seats are pushed to their maximum rearward positions there isn't much legroom for middle row passengers. This, of course, will only be a problem for extremely tall families. Under normal conditions its 1,040 mm (41.0 in) rear seat legroom is best in class, according to Cadillac.
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| The SRX's interior on the whole is a giant leap forward for the crested wreath brand. (Photo: General Motors) |
The interior on the whole is a giant leap forward for the crested wreath brand, that incidentally was lambasted by the press, myself included, after introducing its CTS sports sedan with less than premium perceived quality - that upscale touchy, feely tactile sensation that premium customers appreciate with regard to plastics, wood and switchgear - the CTS has since been improved to SRX standards. The SUV's dash, console and side window ledges are all top grade, basically all the surfaces that come in regular contact with hands. Highest kudos must go to the designers of the power window switches. While they might be small for some drivers, a recurring problem found elsewhere inside the SRX, they're among the nicest in the industry.
