model and a less expensive two-wheel-drive model. The 2WD
version comes standard with a 5.3-liter V8 rated at 295
horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Stepping up to the
AWD version lands you a high-output 6.0-liter V8 with 345
horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most
powerful SUV engines on the market. Both engines use a
four-speed automatic transmission. The maximum tow
rating for AWD models is 8,100 pounds, while 2WD versions
can lug up to 7,400 pounds. Acceleration with either engine is
surprisingly brisk for such a large vehicle, but buyers who
tow heavy trailers on a regular basis will want the added
muscle of the 6.0-liter V8. On the flip side, those who don't
need the extra oomph will find the smaller V8 perfectly
adequate and more fuel-efficient.
plant is a high-output 6.0-liter V8 engine. With 345
horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, the only other
SUVs that can match it also wear Cadillac emblems. The
maximum tow rating is 7,800 pounds. Acceleration is
surprisingly brisk for such a large vehicle, but you pay for it
with low fuel mileage, which is estimated at 12 city/16
highway.
all-wheel drive, the EXT comes in AWD only. The only
available engine is the high-output 6.0-liter V8 that boasts
345 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. A heavy-duty
four-speed automatic transmission takes care of the
shifting. As you might expect, the powerful V8 moves the big
sport-ute with little hesitation, but those looking for a quiet,
refined power plant might find it a little raucous at higher
rpm. The transmission downshifts quickly and rarely fails to
provide crisp, clean upshifts under acceleration. The EXT's
maximum towing capacity is 7,300 pounds.
horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque, and a 4.6-liter
Northstar V8 that generates 320 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines feature variable valve timing and electronic
throttle control. A five-speed automatic with regular and
sport shift programs, as well as a separate automanual gate,
comes standard with either engine. Buyers must decide
whether they want rear-wheel drive (to maximize
performance and economy) or all-wheel drive (for driving in
the snow). One option to consider is Magnetic Ride Control,
an adaptive damping system also available on the XLR and
Corvette. Thusly equipped, the SRX offers decidedly sporty
handling characteristics.
