At a time when design chiefs frommega brands are poached by cash-rich upstarts, ‘inspired' designs are all too common. So if a Kia, for example, looks like an Audi, there's no reason to be surprised. In such a world, Cadillacs offer a refreshing change. Although it's debatable whether they are good looking, with their unmistakably angular lines, Caddys definitely look unlike other cars in their respective segments.
When it was launched a few years back, the SRX was no exception. It was a real head-turner and looked different from every other crossover on the market. Driving it first, and later having it in our long-term fleet, we just loved everything about the car. It had striking looks, luxury inside its posh cabin, and came loaded with features plus a plush ride.
If there was one bit that let this brilliant CUV down, it was the 3.0-litre V6 which seemed to run out of breath occasionally. Thankfully, although they took their time, the guys in Detroit have come up witha remedy. Instead of trying to tinker with the Caddy's winning looks, they did the sensible thing replacing the tired workhorse under the bonnet with a bigger 3.6-litre unit.
The effect of the new 308bhp V6 is apparent right away, as the car gathers momentum a lot more energetically than its predecessor. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, it also leaves 359Nm of torque at your disposal, but the fact that the SRX weighs a tad over 2,000kg means it still isn't a properly quick crossover. However, handling is impressive for its bulk thanks to a revised suspension and the speed-sensitive steering, especially when compared to its Asian rivals. Sound dampening seems to have improved as well, with engine noise barely audible inside. While the ventilated front seats are very comfortable, withtwo six-footers comfortably seated up front, the rear passengers might notbe left with a lot of room.
Deserving special mention is a minor change inside that's made a huge difference in convenience for the driver. In the previous model, the door lock/unlock switches were located on the centre console, making it difficult for the driver to access them. Now an additional set of switches have been added to the driver door panel as well. The top-end Luxury Collection gets 20in machined aluminium alloys, heated rear seats and, just in time for winter, a heated steering wheel. Bluetooth connectivity is now standard on all models. Also standard are safety features like dual-stage frontal and side impact air bags, rollover sensors and energy-absorbing body structure.
Verdict
The addition of a new engine has potentially changed the game for Cadillac. In fact, this was the powerhouse that this crossover should have had right from the beginning. The luxury-car-like ride quality, the upmarket interior and the long list of standard features make it a viable alternative to more expensive German offerings in its class. And with a price tag starting at just Dh163,000 for the full-spec, it's not only the Audi Q5s and the BMWX3s that this Caddy has in its sights; even the Japanese and the Koreans have reason to worry.
- Model SRX
- Engine 3.6-litre V6
- Transmission Six-speed auto, AWD
- Max power 308bhp @ 6,800rpm
- Max torque 359Nm @ 2,400rpm
- Top speed 212kph
- 0-100kph 7.2sec
- Price Starts Dh163,000
