A Cadillac SRX by any other name would smell like a Saab 9-4x?

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Autocar in the UK managed to grab a snap of the Saab 9-4X during testing.  This is good news because it means the model is moving along toward production.  This model is a platform twin to the upcoming Cadillac SRX.  Originally we thought that these would be introduced as the BRX, indicating a smaller platform (B) recreational (R) crossover (X), but Cadillac has opted to make this the next SRX.  Part of the idea is that with the new CTS Sport Wagon filling in the station wagon (estate) role, this new mid-size crossover can fill the SRX role.  Fine by me, all thing considered.

2009 SRX Sport

The 2009 SRX Sport features body-colored front and rear fascias with a wire mesh backing, optoinal 20" wheels and new 6-speed automatic transmission.

The current SRX as shown is a large RWD vehicle, but was based on the same sigma platform as the previous generation CTS.

2010 Cadillac SRX Crossover.

2010 Cadillac SRX Crossover.

The new SRX is based on the epsilon/theta crossover platform and is FWD or AWD.

2010 Cadillac SRX Crossover

2010 Cadillac SRX Crossover

Although it still enjoys a sizable wheelbase, it has the appearance of a smaller vehicle.

CTS not a Saab story

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Swade over at trollhattensaabnet.com has a nice real-world, real-person driving report on a 2009 CTS with AWD posted.  Getting driving and impression reports from real people as opposed to jounalists can be refreshing and informative.  For example, I like to hear professional movie reviews, but I have to keep in mind that the reviewer is watching dozens of movies very closely together, and is concerned with issues I am not.  A real person who has just seen a movie has a lot more context in common with my experience.

The CTS Swade drove was a 1SA AWD 09 CTS in Canada.  He has a very good conversational writing style, so please click over and read the whole article; here is a brief excerpt:

What I can say, though, is that the CTS is a smooth operator. Engine noise is minimal, as is disturbance from any inconsistencies in the road. Despite the isolation you get from the bad stuff, there’s still plenty of feel and feedback from the car, so the engineers have managed to emulate the Europeans quite well in that respect.

The base standard wheels are miles behind the optional sport wheels by the way.  So if you do select the base model this is one item I would look to ‘upgrade’ afterward.

Base CTS wheel

Base P61 Wheels, 17" x 8" (43.2 cm x 20.3 cm) painted aluminum

Base CTS wheel

Sport P75 Wheels, 18" x 8" (45.7 cm x 20.3 cm) aluminum with premium multi-coat painted finish

The Cadillac CTS, redesigned in 2008, continues to charm.  In fact, the CTS is becoming the key player in the Cadillac line, which will soon consist of the CTS, CTS-V, CTS Coupe, CTS Sport Wagon, SRX, XLR, XLR-V and Escalade(s).

Swade also took some very nice photos of the CTS, so don’t miss clicking on those for the larger versions also.

D3 XLR-V +3

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Motor Authority points out that D3 has released stage 1, 2, and 3 kits for the Cadillac XLR-V.  Now, out of the box the XLR-V arrives with 443 elegant horsepower from a 4.4L Supercharged Northstar drivetrain, so it is no slouch.  The D3 packages manage to tweak that 443hp up to 525hp, or 575hp, or 600hp, respectively.  Nice icing on the cake indeed.
 

D3 Cadillacs Stage 1 XLR-V kit installed

D3 Cadillac's Stage 1 XLR-V kit installed

Stage 1 Power Package: $1875.00  Application: 2006-2008 XLR-V
Description – This is our introductory package which includes Stage 1 and 2 Intakes and ECU Box. It is a relatively simple and quick bolt on package that will boost engine power to over 500 bhp. Installation only takes about an hour and can be installed with common hand tools. This is one of the largest performance gains you can obtain for your XLR-V with minimal investment.
Horsepower Increased to = 525+ bhp
Torque Increased to = 470+ ft lbs.
Includes Stage 1 and 2 Intakes and ECU Box

Stage 1.5 Power Package: $3,415.00
Application: 2006-2008 XLR-V
Horsepower Increased to = 545+ bhp
Torque Increased to = 500+ ft lbs.
Includes Exhaust System, Intercooler Lid, Spark Plugs, and ECU Box Tune Update)
Product Description – This upgrade will make your XLR-V accelerate like a true light weight sports car. Power to weight ratio is an astonishing 6.9:1! This is about as far as you can go running factory boost settings.

Stage 2 Power Package: $3140.50
Application: 2006-2008 XLR-V
Includes Intercooler Upgrade and Boost Upgrade.
*Does not include any of Stage 1 items*
Description – For those who are looking for a little bit more of an upgrade, but do not want to get into the motor, we offer our Stage 2 power package. This package includes our Intercooler Upgrade & Boost Upgrade. It will boost engine power up to 575 bhp and over 580 ft lbs of torque. *Does not include any of Stage 1 items* This package requires a PCM reflash to maximize tune and engine potential. Because of the high output of this package it is advised that brake upgrades are also considered at time of purchase.

Stage 3 Power Package: Call for Pricing and Details
Application: 2006-2008 XLR-V
Horsepower Increased to = 600+ bhp
Torque Increased to = 580+ ft lbs.
Description – This is for the enthusiast who wants it all. Each stage 3 package is customized to the individual’s desire. We cover everything from ported cylinder heads to rebuilt bottom ends. Also part of every stage 3 is braking system upgrades, wheels and tires (if big brakes are used) and any other custom modifications desired. This power package is rated at 600+ bhp. The Stage 3 power package is typically only done in house.

The Stage 2 appears to be in addition to the cost of the Stage 1, so to purchase the Stage 2 you would need to add the cost of Stage 1 and Stage 2.

I can’t wait to see what D3 has planned for the CTS and for the CTS-V. I think we may see 700 hp Cadillacs on the boulevard soon.

Motor Trend Magazine has a complete review of the D3 Stage 2 XLR-V HERE.