Cadillac SRX unveiled ahead of 2009 Detroit Auto Show

Sporty, luxurious crossovers, like the crossover niche in general, haven't had the success the industry might have hoped for. Nevertheless, there is a definite market for the vehicles, and Cadillac has just unveiled its latest contender for the driveways of those buyers.

Cadillac gave us a sneak preview of the 2010 SRX at the 2008 Pebble Beach Show, and later in a video as it flung snow about, powersliding over a frozen lake. Designed to offer similar aggressive style and sporty handling to the award-winning CTS sedan but also with clear cues from the fuel-cell Provoq concept, the SRX crossover features the a pair of direct-injected V6 engines and the option of AWD. The smaller of the two engines, at 2.8L, packs 300hp (224kW) and 295lb-ft (400Nm) thanks to its turbocharged induction. The larger 3.0L unit, which is just a reduced-displacement version of the 3.6L direct-injection V6 found in the CTS, offers 260hp (193kW) and 221lb-ft (300Nm) of torque.

Cadillac says fuel economy "in the mid-20s on the highway is expected, but testing isn’t complete." The six-speed Hyrdra-Matic 6T70 automatic transmission also gets revised ratios to help cut fuel usage. An AWD system improves handling in both dry and inclement weather.

“The 2010 SRX will deliver excellent, balanced driving dynamics in all types of weather,” said Bob Reuter, global vehicle chief engineer. “The all-wheel-drive system with electronic limited slip effectively transfers torque not only from front to rear, but also along the rear axle. This system sets a new benchmark for all all-wheel-drive systems, giving the driver control and confidence on any road surface.”

Four-wheel discs with 13.6x1.2in (345x30mm) rotors up front and 12.4x0.9in (315x23mm) in the rear offer ample stopping power for attacking twisty canyon roads or slowing a trailer on the highway. With seating for five and 61.18cu ft (1,732.4L) of cargo area with the seats folded down or 29.2cu ft (826.8L) of cargo space behind the second-row seats, the SRX is also capable of towing up to 3,500lb (1,590kg) with a maximum tongue weight of 350lb (158kg). To get to the maximum figures, however, you'll need to equip the optional towing package.

Standard safety equipment includes a range of front, side and curtain airbags plus dual pretensioners and load limiters on the front seat belts. A rollover mitigation sensor ties into the traction control system to kelp keep the shiny side up, and trailer stability assist helps keep the cart from getting before the horse.

The SRX begins production at the Ramos Arizpe facility in Mexico in Q2 2009, and hits the showroom floor immediately after. Pricing has not yet been announced.