2009 Cadillac SRX

NEW FOR 2009:

- No-charge 12-month XM satellite radio subscription

For 2009, the Cadillac SRX is unchanged, save for an increase in the included XM satellite radio subscription from three months to one year.

The SRX midsize SUV comes with a choice of 3.6-litre V6 with five-speed automatic, or 4.6-litre V8 with six-speed automatic. Both can be optioned with all-wheel drive, and with an available third-row seat.

Features on the V6 model include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, privacy glass, fog lights, heated mirrors, black roof rack side rails, power tailgate, variable intermittent wipers, fixed delay rear wiper, cargo cover, cruise control, driver information centre, tire pressure monitoring system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, power windows with front express up/down, leather seats, eight-way power driver's seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, CD stereo with XM satellite radio, auto-levelling rear suspension, power locks with keyless entry, automatic headlamps, theft deterrent system, rear parking assist, and OnStar with Turn by Turn Navigation.

The V8 model adds 18-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors with driver's side auto-dimming, chrome roof rack side rails, power-adjustable pedals, heated leather and wood steering wheel, reconfigurable rear storage with removable bin, garage door opener, wood trim accents, heated eight-way power seats with driver's side memory, six-CD Bose stereo, limited-slip differential, and automatic xenon headlamps with washers.

Depending on the model, optional features include a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch wheels, Magnetic Ride Control, rear air conditioning controls, navigation system, and DVD entertainment system.

A replacement may be on the horizon, but until then, the SRX very nicely fills the niche below the Escalade, with a roomy interior and impressive cargo capacity, but without that larger SUV's bulk. Headroom is excellent in all seating positions, and the interior is well-finished. The optional third-row seat is very tight, and most buyers will be happiest with just the two-row version.