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2014 Cadillac SRX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Buy a 2014 Cadillac SRX

The Top 10 Reasons Why You May want to Buy a 2014 Cadillac SRX:

A remarkable combination of luxury, style, and performance, the 2014 Cadillac SRX is a true heavyweight in the SUV class. Built around the idea of providing total comfort for passengers while still throwing out an enticement for off-road adventure, this model pleases all who take it for a test spin. It is also more affordable than many might think, considering the steps Cadillac has taken in recent years to carefully explain why their automobiles have inched upward in price.

What's New For 2014
The 2014 Cadillac SRX remains virtually unchanged from last year's offering. Buyers no longer have the choice of all-wheel drive on the standard base trim, and there are some changes to the available options packages. However, the body style, chassis design, and cabin layout have pretty much stayed the same.

10 Reasons To Buy A 2014 Cadillac SRX

1) Excellent Handling For An SUV. Even in 2014, most SUVs and crossovers cannot compete with sedans and coupes in the area of stable ride and passenger comfort. The 2014 Cadillac SRX is one of the exceptions. Drivers who take the vehicle out on the road for a test run are very impressed with how the adaptive suspension allows for sharp cornering while minimizing vibration. The V6 engine is certainly responsive enough, and the acceleration is more than satisfactory.

2) Good Safety Ratings. Independent testing and the IIHS have both given credible scores for the 2014 Cadillac SRX. The highest ratings come in the side-crash tests. One of the available package options for this model includes a frontal collision warning system, which tests have shown to be superior to other competing SUVs.

3) Wonderfully Luxurious Interior. A number of automakers, particularly Audi and Lincoln, have ramped up their efforts to provide affordable luxury in their high-end SUV models. Few have accomplished what Cadillac has, however. Even the base trim is equipped with nicely carpeted floors and sidewalls, includes an 8-way power driver's seat, and comes with a Bose® premium 8-speaker stereo system. The uplevel Luxury trim package has a superior air filtration system, ambient interior lighting, and power-adjustable pedals. The woodgrain accents are nicely polished and complement the interior upholstery quite well.

4) Cadillac User Experience. Abbreviated as CUE, this advanced infotainment system is the talk of the automotive world. The console touchscreen is surrounded by a multitude of touch-type sensors, meaning that the formerly cluttered front instrument panel is a thing of the past. The driver and front passenger can now control audio, navigation readouts, and other functions much the same way as they would operate a smartphone. The system is complete with haptic feedback to let the user know when a command has been followed. Climate control is also operated by touch.

5) Plenty Of Performance Trim Options. The uplevel SRX Performance trim costs quite a bit more than the standard version, but those who choose this model will be handed a vehicle that is truly loaded with luxurious amenities. Included are 20-inch alloy wheels, sports-tuned suspension that increases driver control and virtually eliminates shakiness during cornering, AWD adaptive dampers, and xenon headlights. The optional voice-activated navigation on the Luxury trim is also available with the Performance package.

6) Driver Awareness Package. The Driver Awareness and Driver Assist packages are optional accessories on the uplevel trims, but most buyers believe they are worth the extra cost. The forward collision warning system is one of the most advanced in the industry and includes a lane departure warning. The IIHS has given high praise for the effectiveness of the Driver Assist sensors that detect danger, employ the collision preparation system, and provide automatic braking.

7) Plenty Of Power. Few of the entry level luxury SUVs come equipped with a V6 engine, the 2014 Cadillac SRX being an exception. The engine is certainly powerful enough, delivering a total of 308 horsepower to the drivetrain. With the towing package, the vehicle can haul a total of 3,600 pounds, not bad for a so-called compact SUV. The transmission is 6-speed automatic, and the response to acceleration and upshifting is better than average.

8) OnStar® Included. The 2014 Cadillac SRX comes with a full OnStar® package that includes roadside assistance and crash notification, remote door unlock, and complete turn-by-turn navigation. The system is easily operated via the included app or by using the CUE infotainment center.

9) Standard Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control. Most vehicles, regardless of the trim or price segment, offer filtration and auto-control for the interior climate only on the uplevel versions. Even the base trim SRX contains a very efficient air conditioning system that can be preprogrammed with the CUE. The climate control is very responsive and provides superior circulation throughout the cabin.

10) Extended Warranty. Cadillac has reorganized its warranty program for most vehicles including the SRX. The bumper-to-bumper protection is good for four years or 50,000 miles. The 24-hour roadside assistance coverage lasts for six years or 70,000 miles. Both the base trim and uplevel versions are fully covered on the powertrain for 70,000 miles.

Reasons You May Not Want To Buy A 2014 Cadillac SRX

1) Lower Than Average Fuel Efficiency. Some of the smaller, entry level luxury SUVS get better highway mileage than the SRX. Even though it is lightweight and nimble, 19 mpg highway is about all that can be expected when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

2) Poor Rear Visibility The blind spots are rather large on this model. The rear view is partly obstructed, and the rearview mirror is practically useless unless placed in one particular setting.

3) Doesn't Seat Five Comfortably. There are a few better choices out there when it comes to seating the rear passengers in comfort. The back seating area of the SRX is truly cramped regardless of whether the human cargo is children or adults.

Conclusion
If interior luxury and advanced safety equipment are the prime considerations, the 2014 Cadillac SRX will certainly exceed expectations. The beautiful driver information console is tops in the industry, and the vehicle is a pleasure to drive with a promise of a smooth ride for passengers. The preventive safety features are also second to none. All in all, it cannot be argued that this model is unworthy of the sticker price.