January 6, 2003

Cadillac shows new SRX luxury SUV

Detroit, Michigan - - Cadillac unveiled its new seven passenger SRX "luxury utility" vehicle, which is due to go into production in mid-2003. It will compete with mid-sized, car-like SUV's like the Volvo XC90, Lexus RX330, Volkswagen Touareg, and Acura MDX.

Based on the 2001 Vizon concept vehicle, the SRX is available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. GM says it has the longest wheelbase in its class, a near 50-50 weight distribution, and a low centre of gravity.

The SRX is offered with two engines: the next-generation 4.6 litre Northstar V8 VVT (Variable Valve Timing) and the all-new 3.6 litre V6 VVT. The 4.6 litre, 32-valve V8 Northstar engine, extensively re-engineered and mounted longitudinally, generates 315 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 310 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. The 3.6 litre V6 VVT makes 260 (preliminary) horsepower at 6500 rpm and 252 lbs.-ft. of torque at 2800 rpm.

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Both engines will be mated to five-speed automatic transmissions with Driver Shift Control (which offers clutchless manual shifting), electronically controlled engine braking, downgrade detection with brake assist, and 'Performance Algorithm Liftfoot'.

SRX features include the latest four-channel StabiliTrak active suspension control and a segment-first Magnetic Ride Control. GM says the electronically controlled magnetic-fluid based real time damping is the world's fastest reacting suspension control system. Speed sensitive variable effort steering, four-channel ABS with Panic Brake Assist and traction control and available AWD also are included.

The SRX incorporates all-aluminum suspension components to reduce unsprung mass and optimize suspension performance. The SRX suspension system uses an independent short/long arm (SLA) up front and fully independent multi-link in the rear for superior ride and handling.

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With its long wheelbase, the SRX will seat up to seven passengers with the optional third row seat. The second row seat, with the most legroom in its class, folds virtually flat, and the third row seat power-folds into the floor at the push of a button - a first in the medium luxury utility segment. Vehicles not equipped with the optional third-row seat can have a cargo management system integrated into the rear floor.

Nearly all of the vehicle's interior space can be illuminated with daylight by the largest sunroof system available in the segment. The optional "UltraView" roof extends to provide more than five square feet of open air over the first and second row seats and integrates a retractable power shade. The "UltraView Plus" includes a vented glass roof over the third row seat.

The SRX will be manufactured at Lansing Grand River Assembly in Lansing, Michigan, which builds the CTS sedan.

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