Cadillac's Crossover

(page 3 of 3)

Buy It Or Bag It?

First off, paying more than $6,000 extra to get the V8 seems excessive, so I would probably go with the V6. But you'll need a calculator to figure out the real cost difference between the two because the V8 version of the SRX has more standard equipment and (as mentioned above) some options cost less on the V8 version. For instance, the premium luxury package costs $7,150 with the V6 and includes extra power equipment, as well as Bose surround-sound, a navigation system, extra wood trim, and a bunch of other stuff.

The same package only costs $4,050 with the V8 because it doesn't have to include extra stuff that's standard with the V8, like a power passenger seat. So the actual costs of the V8 depends on which options you want.

Expensive as the option is, I would at least consider getting the magnetic ride control ($1,650), which includes active suspension and an automatic leveling system that should really smooth out the ride. Getting the extra wood trim on the steering wheel and shift knob adds a touch of class for just $150.

The SRX is reasonably priced right now, taking into account the rebates GM is offering. The average buyer pays $41,374 for an SRX, according to the Power Information Network, which isn't bad considering that a Lexus RX 350 goes for $40,231, a Volvo XC90 for $42,572, and an Acura MDX for $45,637. The SRX is also a lot cheaper right now than high-end competitors such as the BMW X5, which is selling for an average of $57,003, and the Audi Q7, which averages $54,169 (see BusinessWeek.com, 12/8/06, "Audi's Q Factor").

In the end, it's a question of what sort of vehicle you want—and whether you believe Cadillac really has gotten quality up to snuff. The SRX is a more car-like vehicle than most of its competition. It handles well, and has unique features (that big sunroof, for one) that add to its appeal. I don't much like the way it looks on the outside, but if that doesn't bother you, the SRX offers a lot of value for its price right now.

Click here to see more of the 2007 Cadillac SRX.

Peterson reviews cars for BusinessWeek Online.