2005 Cadillac SRX in Merrillville

We had already named the Cadillac SRX an Automobile Magazine All-Star before we decided to live with one for a year. Then, halfway through our Four Seasons test, we named the SRX an All-Star for a second time. That should give you a clue about what we think of Cadillac's popular crossover.

Based on the highly regarded rear-wheel-drive Sigma platform that also underpins the CTS and STS sedans, the SRX is significant because it is uniquely a Cadillac and signals a more modern approach to the sport-utility-vehicle segment. Cadillac's other SUV, the seemingly ubiquitous truck-based Escalade, has been an undeniable sales success, but underneath its skin, the somewhat overstuffed and deeply decorated rap-mobile is simply a rebadged Chevrolet Tahoe.

From our very first test drives of the SRX, we were smitten by its ride-and-handling profile: here was an American SUV that drove like a car, not a truck. Our Four Seasons SRX prompted similar praise. "This vehicle handles brilliantly. The SRX has plenty of grip and a lovely neutral attitude," penned online editor Mike Dushane. Executive editor Mark Gillies added: "The sport-utility equation is heavily biased toward sport. The vehicle drives really well, with none of the truck ride and head toss you get with a classic SUV."

Still, we never deluded ourselves that the SRX was a sports car. It is, after all, an SUV and, as such, comes with dynamic compromises. "Out on an afternoon cruise, the SRX isn't as entertaining as it is useful at other times. It's built for luxury and comfort more than for speed," said editor-in-chief Jean Jennings.... Read full article