2007 Cadillac SRX V8. Click image to enlarge

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Review by Chris Chase; photos by Laurance Yap

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2007 Cadillac SRX

A number of years ago, the idea of a Cadillac SUV seemed laughable. Now, of course, the Escalade is a surprisingly strong seller despite – or possibly as a result of – its sheer over-the-topness.

The Escalade was introduced in 1999, but it was five years later that Cadillac launched a crossover utility vehicle (CUV) more fitting with the brand’s new performance-oriented identity.

That the SRX looks like a wagon version of the first-generation CTS isn’t surprising, given that the two share underpinnings: the SRX rides on a stretched CTS platform, with a longer wheelbase and overall length.

2007 Cadillac SRX V8. Click image to enlarge

Base power comes from GM’s now-ubiquitous 3.6-litre V6 engine, making 260 horsepower. A V8 model used a 4.6-litre engine good for 320 horsepower. Whereas the CTS could be had with a manual transmission, the SRX was offered only with a five-speed automatic. In 2007, a six-speed auto became standard in V8 models. All SRXs started out as rear-drivers, with all-wheel drive being an option on both V6 and V8 models.

Until 2006, the SRX shared the original CTS’ blocky and cheap-looking interior; 2007 models got a redesigned dash that was a far better fit with the SRX’s mission as a high-end model.

In terms of fuel consumption, the SRX was either thirsty or thirstier, depending on engine choice. In 2004, its EnerGuide numbers were 14.4 L/100 km (city) and 9.3 L/100 km (highway) for a V6, rear-wheel drive model. Choosing all-wheel drive meant using a little more gas, but the V8 engine was the real consumption culprit: its ratings in the SRX were 15.9 L/100 km (city) and 10.7 L/100 km (highway) in a rear-drive model. The numbers had improved some by 2009, where a rear-drive V6 model was rated 14.1/8.8 (city/highway), while the all-wheel drive V8 was still thirsty, at 16/10 (city/highway).

In the reliability department, the SRX doesn’t appear to have held up well. Consumer Reports notes a number of trouble spots, and gives the crossover its “much worse than average” overall used vehicle rating.

A serious problem is a fragile rear differential, a flaw shared with the first-gen CTS sedan that the SRX is based on. Signs of a differential that’s on its way out include a moaning sound from the rear end while cruising or decelerating at speed and/or a chattering sound while reversing, so watch for these symptoms while test driving.

A browse of the SRX section at CadillacForums.com revealed a list of known issues with this crossover. Among them: Ultra-View sunroofs that shatter for no reason. This roof is also named a culprit in causing interior rattles in the SRX. Many owners report water leaking into the compartment where the jack is stored.