2015 Cadillac SRX Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2015 Cadillac SRX adds 4G LTE connection and a standard Wi-Fi hotspot (a subscription is available after a three-month trial). Two new exterior colors have been added: Cocoa Bronze Metallic and Majestic Plum Metallic.
Vehicle Summary
The 2015 Cadillac SRX is a two-row luxury crossover available in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. A 3.6-liter V-6 with 308 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque paired to a six-speed automatic transmission is the only engine available. Fuel economy is mediocre for the segment, at 17/24 mpg city/highway in front-drive guise and 16/23 mpg with all-wheel drive.
Overview
Performance is decent in the 2015 Cadillac SRX, with good steering and surprisingly good handling for a crossover thanks to its well-tuned chassis. The V-6 engine provides good power for passing and merging, and is paired to an automatic transmission that allows drivers to fully control shifting duties when in manual mode. Refinement is also top notch, with a smooth ride that makes the crossover feel more luxurious.
Exterior noise is nearly nonexistent thanks to the 2015 SRX's well-insulated cabin, which can be equipped with active noise cancellation technology. Cadillac's CUE infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen is available along with a Bose premium sound system, a large sunroof, and available 4G LTE via GM's OnStar service.
The 2015 Cadillac SRX has a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA (out of a possible five stars). In IIHS evaluations, the car received a good score in four categories (good is the highest possible score).
Optional safety aids are split into two packages, the Driver Assist and Driver Awareness packages, and include rear-cross traffic alert, blind spot warning, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, safety seat alert, automatic collision preparation, front and rear automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. According to IIHS evaluations, the 2015 SRX offers Superior front crash prevention (front crash awareness designations include Basic, Advanced, and Superior).
What We Think
The 2015 Cadillac SRX is a decent choice in its segment, with a strong V-6 engine, refined interior and sporty handling. In a 2012 First Drive review, we said that the car has a smooth ride and sporty handling that makes it "fun to throw around the rough, twisty backroads." Despite its sporting nature, it remains luxurious and refined with a well-insulated cabin that is "nicely isolated from the outside world." The 3.6-liter V-6 is also a highlight, providing a smooth and linear power and torque curve; however, the crossover's brakes are "spongy-feeling" while the steering lacks feedback.
Key Competitors
- BMW X3
- Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
- Audi Q5
- Lexus RX
- Volvo XC60
