2010 Cadillac SRX: GM Releases New Pictures and Details

This is the second generation Cadillac SRX crossover that will be making its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week. Cadillac had offered us our first glimpse of its mid-size luxury crossover in August, 2008, but now, the American automaker has released detailed information as well as new photos. According to Cadillac, the new and more compact sized SRX will compete against the Lexus RX, Acura MDX, BWW X3 and X5. Due to go on sale in the second quarter of 2009, the SRX will be offered in North America with two petrol units, a new, 260HP 3.0-liter direct injected V6 and a 300HP 2.8-liter turbocharged V6.

Both engines are hooked up to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac has yet to issue any specific figures, but the automaker supports that fuel economy will be in the mid-20s on the highway.

Unlike its rear-wheel / all-wheel drive predecessor, the new SRX gets front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as optional. The AWD system includes an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) that distributes torque as needed from side to side along the rear axle, as well as from the front to rear axle

"The 2010 SRX will deliver excellent, balanced driving dynamics in all types of weather," said Bob Reuter, global vehicle chief engineer. "The all-wheel-drive system with electronic limited slip effectively transfers torque not only from front to rear, but also along the rear axle. This system sets a new benchmark for all all-wheel-drive systems, giving the driver control and confidence on any road surface."

Among the new photos released by Cadillac is the first picture of the SRX's interior that bears many similarities with the CTS. "Inside the new SRX, technical precision blends with old-world craftsmanship," said Clay Dean, Cadillac global design director. "Hand-cut-and-sewn coverings on the instrument panel and ambient lighting details convey a finely tailored cabin."

The 2010 SRX's highlights include a "pop-up" navigation screen with three-dimensional imaging; adaptive forward lighting that swivels the headlamps in synch with vehicle steering; power liftgate with adjustable height setting; integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen system for rear entertainment.

Other features include standard head curtain side air bags, front seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags, front safety belts with dual pretensioners and load limiters, rollover mitigation sensors, a pedal release system, trailer stability assist and OnStar.