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| 2003-09-08 | ||
September 2003
Frankfurt. It is a genuine all-rounder; the new Cadillac SRX crossover vehicle combines a sporty exterior with the driving dynamics and on-road safety of a station wagon and the off-road abilities and interior space of an SUV. The newcomer, which is making its first appearance to the European public at Frankfurt's IAA Motor Show, as such fuses the advantages of two vehicle classes. Measuring 4.95 meters long and 1.72 meters tall, the five-door model incorporates classic Cadillac features such as the unmistakable form vocabulary, sophisticated technology and an array of luxury features. The Cadillac SRX is produced at the Grand River plant in Lansing, Michigan and will go on sale in the USA in just a few weeks. It is scheduled to arrive in Europe in autumn 2004. As well as being built on the CTS platform, the SRX also incorporates exterior design cues from Cadillac's midsize sedan. The strong family resemblance stems from factors such as the striking vertical headlights, the bold contours of the front side sections and the V-shaped front that tapers into the classic Cadillac grille with mesh cover and prominent wreath and crest logo. Smart interior ideas galore, from the adjustable seating to the glass roof At 2.96 meters, the Cadillac SRX has one of the longest wheelbases in its class, providing the ideal foundation for an unusual amount of legroom at the back. Usually, the SRX is a five-seater with a spacious cargo area. The rear seats can be asymmetrically split and folded down, increasing the cargo volume to over 1960 liters¹. A third row of seats can also be ordered, enabling up to seven people to enjoy the homely comforts of the luxurious interior. This does not, however, mean that the cargo bed disappears; the third row can be power-folded into the floor at the touch of a button. Those who choose the five-seat version of the SRX, however, have another neat option; a cargo system behind the second row of seats provides practical storage options. Three large compartments integrated into the floor can accommodate various equipment and are equipped with easily removable receptacles. Two cargo shades protect belongings from prying eyes and always ensure a tidy appearance at the back. "Ultra View" is the name of an additional innovative feature on the optional extras list of the Cadillac SRX. It refers to a huge glass roof that is opened by lifting it and pushing it back. The resulting vent, measuring 4,650 cm², gives those in the first two rows the thrill of an open-air driving experience. To ensure that passengers in the optional third row can also enjoy a light-flooded interior, an extra glass roof is available for the back ("Ultra View Plus" version). The future of the Cadillac SRX is not just bright because of the glass roof. The seats are arranged theater-style – with the second row five centimeters higher than the front, and passengers in the third row a further twelve centimeters higher. This seating configuration gives Cadillac SRX occupants a better view of their environment than in conventionally designed cars. Powerful V6 and V8 engines, modern five-speed automatic transmission Two smooth-running and high-torque engines propel the Cadillac SRX via an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission. The first is a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 194 kW/260 hp at 6500 rpm. Ninety percent of its 342 Nm of torque is available between 1600 and 5800 rpm. The engine block and cylinder heads are made of aluminum. The second engine is the 4.6-liter Northstar V8 already fitted in Cadillac's XLR roadster/coupe. It boasts impressive performance specifications – a rating of 239 kW/320 hp at 6400 rpm and a peak torque of 427 Nm at 4400 rpm. The technical highlights include variable valve timing and the electronically connected accelerator pedal. Adaptive suspension and all wheel drive are standard fitted In order to achieve the combination of a sporty performance and comfortable ride, the Cadillac engineers decided to give the SRX independent wheel suspension. In addition, Magnetic Ride Control is available. The real-time damping system uses the magnetic properties of iron for continuous adaptation to road conditions and driving dynamics – a world first in this segment. The Cadillac SRX comes with full-time all-wheel drive. Under normal driving conditions, the latter system splits the torque 50/50 to the front and rear axles via an open center differential. In the event of slippage, the torque is redirected to those wheels (or to the one particular wheel) with better traction. Factory-fitted with StabiliTrak active suspension, TCS traction control and ABS with brake assist, the new Cadillac provides a high level of active safety. In addition, the standard equipment package also ensures superior passive safety in the form of six airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners. ¹ Provisional figures | ||
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