SRX looks better than ever

Behold the 2010 SRX, otherwise known as the incredible shrinking Cadillac.

The SRX represents yet another new direction for General Motors and its premium division. Its mission statement would now appear to read: Keep it small, keep it lively and, above all, keep it fuel efficient.

Focusing on those points was likely a challenge in itself, but the new SRX also had some pretty big shoes to fill. The outgoing model was a compelling alternative to some of Caddy's bigger rigs, in particular the XXL-sized Escalade.

The first-generation SRX, which was introduced for the 2004 model year, owed its popularity to providing plenty of Cadillac-style amenities in a wagon package that could accommodate up to seven passengers. All-wheel-drive and a 4.6-liter V-8 were offered as options.

The upcoming edition that arrives this summer will be a scaled-down version of the original, which is surprising since most automakers -- including Cadillac -- have been heading in the opposite direction with successive editions of their products.

The tale of the tape reveals the incumbent SRX to be close to 5 inches shorter overall and the distance between the front and rear wheels has been significantly reduced by half a foot. It's only in width where the new model outpoints the old by 2.5 inches.

As well, cargo volume behind the rear seat and with the second row folded flat has decreased by about 10 percent. That's not a huge amount, but the previously optional third-row bench is no longer offered.

The new SRX is a significant departure when it comes to design. The previous boxy -- and even top-heavy -- look is now sleeker and is fronted by a much bolder grille that provides a major point of differentiation from the other wagons in this Caddy's class.

On the inside, Cadillac's stylists have displayed admirable restraint in fashioning the cabin. The wood and alloy trim are tasteful and the neatly stitched leather (and leatherlike) dashboard and seat coverings appear as crisp as an expertly tailored suit.

What lies beneath the business end of the SRX clearly displays further evidence of Cadillac's restraint. The vehicle's original base 3.6-liter V-6 has been scaled back to 3.0 liters of displacement, although horsepower has been slightly increased to 265 from 255. Optional is an all-new 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6 that hammers out an estimated 300 horsepower. That's 20 ponies less than the outgoing V-8, but Cadillac is broadly hinting that fuel economy will be significantly better without any major power disruption. Additionally, the automatic that functions with the 3.0 comes with an "eco" mode that adjusts the shift points for maximum fuel economy.

Each engine receives its own six-speed automatic transmission, both of which feature control paddles for those who prefer the hands-on approach to shifting.

Though the V-8 is history, all-wheel-drive (AWD) returns as an option, but in an improved package. Up to 100 percent of the torque can now be seamlessly transferred to the rear wheel -- just one rear wheel -- that has the most grip, or the outside rear wheel when turning at high speeds. AWD also comes with shock absorbers that can instantly adjust for varying road conditions to improve ride quality. Bear in mind that the standard SRX drives the front wheels where most Cadillacs favor the rear. Whether this is a shift in Cadillac culture remains to be seen.

Of course, being a Cadillac, a lengthy list of comfort/convenience items comes with the nameplate. Additional items for purchase include: larger 20-inch wheels (18s are standard); three-dimensional-imaging navigation system with a pop-up screen; adaptive headlights that swivel in sync with the vehicle steering; upgraded audio system with hard-disk-drive storage capacity; and dual-screen entertainment units.

Of course there are the requisite six airbags (including full-length side-curtains), but safety is augmented by special high-strength steel in the rocker-panel area that adds extra side impact protection.

The new SRX should make converts of those who believe that big size and an equally brawny V-8 are luxury-model mainstays. What this car really delivers is improved fuel economy and lively performance in a trimmer, more tasteful wrapper.