First Impressions

Lincoln’s chief domestic rival, Cadillac, is also launching a new crossover utility. Back in 2004, the first-generation Cadillac SRX crossover helped usher in the brand’s angular, emotive “Art and Science” design theme. But, that SRX never quite lived up to its potential.

So now comes an all-new 2010 SRX, with brawnier, and more dynamic sheetmetal bolted to a shorter frame, giving it a look that rivals BMW’s muscular X5. 

The new SRX’s tasteful, well-appointed cabin clearly favors the CTS, and that’s a compliment of the highest order. The hand-stitched interior features a three-dimensional nav screen that rises out of the center console.

Drivetrains are V6 automatics. Standard is a direct-injection, 265-horsepower front drive 3.0-liter V6 based on the CTS’ 3.6-liter mill. Optional is a new turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 with 300 horsepower, available only with all-wheel-drive.

The advanced traction system can transfer torque left-to-right along the rear axle as well as front-to-back.

With the benchmark Lexus RX clearly in it’s sites, the 2010 Cadillac SRX will have an aggressive base price of just over $34,000 when it goes on sale in August.