Saudi Auto names Cadillac SRX '2005 SUV of the Year'

The award for the SRX, against some tough competition, is the latest in a number of global awards for the popular luxury utility vehicle, including the best luxury utility award for 2004 from Car & Driver magazine.

"It is true that the SRX is a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), but we found that it is like no other vehicle in its class," said Saudi Auto's Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Bakur Azher. "The SRX is truly a leader in its category - where buyers no longer need to sacrifice performance and style for utility."

Azher presented the Award to General Motors Chairman, Rick Wagoner, during GM's Annual Middle East Retailer Conference in Dubai.

"I am especially pleased to accept this award on behalf of General Motors for the Cadillac SRX," Wagoner said. "The renaissance of Cadillac as a global luxury brand has been a great success for GM. And it's great to see that the new Cadillac products are being so well received in the very important Middle East market."

Saudi Auto cited a number of factors that contributed to the SRX being named "2005 SUV of the Year," including excellent road handling and overall performance; luxury appointments and features; and the SRX's innovative overall offering to customers.

Since reaching Middle East showrooms last December, hundreds of new owners have been surprised and delighted by the award-winning vehicle.

"We are honored to be able to add this award to the others the SRX is picking up around the world," said Fadi Ghosn, Regional Marketing Manager for Premium Brands. "More significantly, this is the first time a crossover concept between sedan and lightweight off-road vehicle has achieved a Middle East award in the SUV category, which is normally reserved for more 'traditional' off road vehicles."

The award is also recognition of the fact that the Cadillac SRX is a vehicle capable of handling whatever path is in front of it - a utility vehicle capable of towing more than 1.5 tons, but one which still drives like a sport sedan and looks like nothing else on the road.

Ghosn added that early curiosity following last year's launch has given way to a high acceptance level in the marketplace.

"With the largest sunroof in its segment being a major attraction, it has proven especially appealing to families, providing them with the large amount of space and comfort they require without sacrificing style or durability," he said. "New, younger customers are being attracted to Cadillac showrooms on a daily basis drawn by our growing line-up of vehicles, of which the SRX is a central component."

The appeal is expected to increase with the all-new 3.6L V-6 Variable Valve Timing engine , lining up alongside the two V8 variants on 2005 models. The V6 generates 260 hp at 6,500 rpm and 252 lbs-ft. of torque at 2,800 rpm. The 60-degree dual overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve power-plant boasts a number of performance refinements, including electronic throttle control; variable valve timing; multi-port fuel injection; two-stage roller chain cam drive; aluminum block and cylinder heads; and a forged steel crankshaft.

At first glance, the SRX is instantly recognizable as one of the 'new' Cadillacs, yet is unlike anything else on the road. The family resemblance to the CTS, STS and Escalade is immediately evident: the SRX visually bridges the gap between performance sedan and full-size SUV. Its Cadillac bloodline shows through in its chiseled vertical tail and headlamps and V-shaped grille. At the same time, the dramatically styled SRX clearly stands out from its European and Japanese competitors.

The SRX seats up to seven passengers with the optional third row seat engaged. The second row seat, with the most legroom in its class, folds almost flat, and the third row seat power-folds into the floor at the push of a button - a first in the medium luxury utility segment. Vehicles not equipped with the optional third-row seat can have a cargo management system integrated into the rear floor.

Nearly all of the vehicle's interior space can be illuminated with daylight by the largest sunroof system available in the segment. The optional "UltraView" roof provides the thrill of an open-air driving experience. It extends to provide more than five square feet of open air over the first and second row seats, and integrates a retractable power shade. The "UltraView Plus" includes a vented glass roof over the third row seat.

"SRX is a true driver's utility, an innovative entry in a 'me-too' segment," said Ghosn. "SRX is completely unlike any of the luxury utilities out there. It offers a great look, precise road manners and unprecedented utility. It's a vehicle that lets you say 'utility' and 'fun to drive' in the same sentence."