2014 Cadillac SRX Expert Review

Vehicle Overview

Cadillac's most popular model has few changes for the 2014 model year. The 2014 Cadillac SRX midsize crossover is powered by a 308-hp 3.6-liter V-6 with 265 lb-ft of torque mated to six-speed automatic transmission in front- or all-wheel drive. Front-drive models are EPA-rated 17/24 mpg city/highway, while all-wheel-drive models are rated 16/23 mpg.

In 2012, the 3.6-liter engine replaced the smaller 3.0-liter and turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6 engines, which made up for the SRX's "lackluster performance." In our 2012 Cadillac SRX First Test, we said about the crossover with the 3.6-liter V-6: "The power curve is smooth and linear, while the torque curve is almost as flat as Ford's EcoBoost V-6, with peak torque available from 2400 to 5300 rpm. The 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission is the only one offered and it can route power to either the front or all four wheels, depending on configuration. An eco button remaps shift points and increases the time that fuel is cut off during deceleration, slightly improving fuel economy.

"Meanwhile, a number of suspension tweaks have smoothed out the ride considerably. It is still on the sporty side for the segment -- Cadillac is trying to be more BMW than Lexus, after all -- but definitely luxurious. Two suspension setups are offered, a softer setup under the technical designation "FE2" and the sportier "FE3" setup that also comes with variable-effort, speed-sensitive power steering. These were definitely more fun to throw around the rough, twisty backroads during our test drive near Santa Barbara, California."

With a mid-cycle refresh last year, (which included Cadillac's new CUE infotainment system, Driver Awareness and Driver Assist packages, and slightly revised front end styling and wheel choices) there are few changes for 2014. The 2014 Cadillac SRX has a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA (out of a possible five stars) and the 2013 model is considered a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

New for 2014

For 2014, updates include chrome 18-inch wheels available on the Luxury Collection and Intellibeam headlights added to the Driver Awareness Package. New exterior colors include Graphite Metallic, Terra Mocha Metallic, and Sapphire Blue Metallic, while Caramel with Ebony accents is a new interior option.

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