For the 2013 model year Cadillac has updated the Cadillac SRX crossover with some styling tweaks and more technology on the inside, but is it enough to help it compete against other models like the Lexus RX, BMW X3 and Audi Q5?
For the 2013 model year Cadillac has updated the Cadillac SRX crossover with some styling tweaks and more technology on the inside, but is it enough to help it compete against other models like the Lexus RX, BMW X3 and Audi Q5?
On the outside the styling updates to the 2013 SRX are minimal with the biggest changes being tweaks to the grille, LED lighting and new 20-inch wheels. Compared to the other models in its class, specifically the top-selling Lexus RX, the SRX’s styling is more dramatic with its sharp angles and creases. Cadillac’s Art & Science design theme keeps the SRX from looking just like any other bland luxury crossover.
Inside the 2013 SRX receives a new steering wheel and a new instrument cluster with Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system. The SRX’s interior feels rich and more upscale than the BMW X3. The SRX’s interior is covered in upscale materials and its driving position is right on. The only downside is the CUE system can take some getting used to and passengers in the back seat may complain about a lack of space. Leg room in back is a bit tight, but at least the extended moonroof makes it feel a little more spacious back there.
Under the hood the 2013 SRX is only offered with one engine, a 308-hp 3.6L V6 that is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose either front or all-wheel-drive. With over 300 horsepower under the hood the SRX feels strong, but is only let down by how heavy the SRX is. Weighing in at over 4,000 pounds, the SRX feels bigger and heavier than its dimensions would lead you to believe.
On the road the SRX has a heavy feel and its suspension provided very little body roll, but at the same time wasn’t harsh. It’s 308-hp engine makes the SRX fun to drive on dry roads, with a 0-60 mph time around seven seconds, but all that power only going to the front wheels will definitely lead to a bit of wheel spin (luckily there’s an AWD version). The SRX’s power steering provides a nice amount of feedback, but the brakes did feel a bit soft. The biggest complaint we had about the SRX was its gas mileage that is towards the bottom of the pack. Our front-wheel-drive SRX is rated at 17/ 24 mpg, but we only averaged around 19 mpg. The BMW X3 xDrive35i is rated at 19/26 and the Audi Q5 3.0 is rated at 18/ 26 mpg.
Overall we were very impressed with the Cadillac SRX, its sharp exterior sets it apart from other softer looking crossovers. The quality of the SRX”s interior is top notch and all the available tech features are sure to please.
2013 Cadillac SRX (FWD)
Base Price: $38,225
Price as Tested: $46,970
