2010 Cadillac SRX - aka gold-plated Equinox

[SwivelHips]

So the SRX is no longer based on the CTS??

"the 2010 SRX is based on GM’s Theta Premium platform — an enhanced version of the regular Theta architecture, which forms the basis for the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and 2010 GMC Terrain. "

Anyone else think this is a huge step backward? I don't much care, and it's actually probably a smart move by GM -- build a cheaper Cad crossover, but keep the price "Cadillac" even though it's down on power and does not offer RWD.

http://www.leftlanenews.com/cadillac-srx.html

[N50]

I think I like the looks of the old one better but I'll wait to see it in person. I'm just not sure how the dynamics will have changed being on the theta platform now. Something tells me it may not be as good.

[mishap]

See: Cadillac Cimmaon

90% of Caddy drivers probably couldn't tell FWD from RWD or understand what driving dynamics are beyond feeling torque with the gas pedal. The other 10% prob bought one of the rare V models.

It's not a pretty sight to see Cadillac reduced to brand sharing more but times are tough and belts are tight. Marketing people love splitting segments and hopefully this SRX hits that target octogenarian who just has to have a Cadillac SUV but wouldn't be caught dead at the local Chevy dealer ordering a loaded out Equinox.

[SwivelHips]

Originally Posted by mishap

90% of Caddy drivers probably couldn't tell FWD from RWD or understand what driving dynamics are beyond feeling torque with the gas pedal. The other 10% prob bought one of the rare V models.

So true, and the Cimarron was a disaster.

[SpudRacer]

Ugg Lee. Lexus clone. Big mistake IMHO. Why not use the larger Lambda platform for a Cadillac crossover. I know we're in the "Green Era" but this is the GM premium luxury brand. Buyers in this market should be less sensitive to fuel economy and more sensitive to content and comfort. I'm not sure Cadillac customers will pay premium prices for the smaller size + least sophisticated platform + stigma of "it's a Chevy". What exactly are you paying for, sheet metal? Sounds like the Cimarron all over again.

[bruddahmanmatt]

Ehhh, it's been known for the last 2 years or so that the Sigma based SRX would be replaced by a Theta based vehicle. I really don't see how this is much of a surprise to anyone. In all honesty, from a RWD to FWD standpoint this seems like a step backwards, but as already stated, most folks won't even be able to tell. A more fuel efficient and well packaged FWD Lexus RX fighter will more than likely be a better seller than a "performance oriented because it's RWD" X5/FX fighter. The biggest question lay with the current condition of the automotive industry. Otherwise I'd wager a guess that the new SRX would handily outsell the old model. Aside from the driven wheels, the new SRX looks to be a much better vehicle than the crap heap it's replacing, and that's what matters more than anything else. It may not look like the right move to enthusiasts like us, but even Infiniti dealers have been asking for a soft roader to go toe to toe with the Lexus RX (i.e. a reskinned Murano with a richer looking interior) as the EX and FX have been deemed a bit too sporty by some.

[SwivelHips]

Good points by both spud and brud.

[Wannabe6MT]

Originally Posted by SpudRacer

Ugg Lee. Lexus clone. Big mistake IMHO. Why not use the larger Lambda platform for a Cadillac crossover. I know we're in the "Green Era" but this is the GM premium luxury brand. Buyers in this market should be less sensitive to fuel economy and more sensitive to content and comfort. I'm not sure Cadillac customers will pay premium prices for the smaller size + least sophisticated platform + stigma of "it's a Chevy". What exactly are you paying for, sheet metal? Sounds like the Cimarron all over again.

There are talks and sketches of Caddy putting the next Escalade on the Lambda platform. So that kills the usage of that for the SRX.

[SwivelHips]

Just a little disappointing from an enthusiast's POV that now they have a very good sports sedan in the CTS, and are no longer basing their crossover on it.

[Wannabe6MT]

Exactly. It will be a gussied up front driver. Good competition for the lieks of teh Lex RX or Benz GLK, but wont be as sporty as the X3 or EX.

[SpudRacer]

Originally Posted by Wannabe6MT

There are talks and sketches of Caddy putting the next Escalade on the Lambda platform. So that kills the usage of that for the SRX.

Hmmm! Guess the gas thing really scared the crap out of em. So, that would leave no truck based, body on frame, heavy duty SUV for Cadillac. I hope Chevy is allowed to keep the Tahoe/Suburban. There is a market for a high capacity SUV. I don't believe every suburban housewife needs one though.

[SpudRacer]

Originally Posted by SwivelHips

Just a little disappointing from an enthusiast's POV that now they have a very good sports sedan in the CTS, and are no longer basing their crossover on it.

Apparently they're going back to chasing grandma/grandpa. That's a shame since Cadillac was really starting to gain some credibility with car entusiasts. IMHO they were on the right path to develop a premium brand with rear drive, the V series cars, much better materials and assembly quality, competitive powertrains, and distinctive product family styling. GM can use a brand with a world class image right now.

[Wannabe6MT]

Originally Posted by SpudRacer

Hmmm! Guess the gas thing really scared the crap out of em. So, that would leave no truck based, body on frame, heavy duty SUV for Cadillac. I hope Chevy is allowed to keep the Tahoe/Suburban. There is a market for a high capacity SUV. I don't believe every suburban housewife needs one though.

Some suburban housewives use them to tow the boat though, so you never know.. and i wish caddy would keep a truck as well. I dobut GM will get rid of teh Tahoe/Suburban

Originally Posted by SpudRacer

Apparently they're going back to chasing grandma/grandpa. That's a shame since Cadillac was really starting to gain some credibility with car entusiasts. IMHO they were on the right path to develop a premium brand with rear drive, the V series cars, much better materials and assembly quality, competitive powertrains, and distinctive product family styling. GM can use a brand with a world class image right now.

Exactly. It really is a shame. I think the CTS is here to stay though.

[Red_G35]

I'll hold off on my opinion until the reviews come pouring in-- or get my hands on one.
Just because it's based on "lesser car's" platform doesn't mean it's already a failure. I understand the FWD complaints, but many people think RWD is unsafe or unstable in certain weather conditions. Most people prefer FWD. Plus, AWD is available too. For this particular car I doubt being FWD will keep it from selling.

[LightsOut]

i think its a dumb ideal... why create a new rebadge model when it already exist GMC/Chevy line. I think its a waste of the big loan they got.

yeah it has a Cad symbol, but why spend an extra 5-10k for a car thats going to do the same.
just my opinion!