General Motors announced official information on the 2012 Cadillac SRX

Physically, the 2012 Cadillac SRX looks nearly identical to the 2011 models with the exception of a new 20” machined-face wheel that is standard on performance and premium trimline vehicles. The big news for the 2012 SRX is the deletion of both engine options from the 2011 models in favor of a single, 3.6L V6 engine that churns out 300 horsepower and 260lb-ft of torque. This V6, similar to the one featured as the base engine in the Chevrolet Camaro, will serve as the only engine choice for the 2012 SRX - replacing the standard 265hp 3.0L V6 and the optional 2.8L turbocharged V6 that makes the same 300hp (although the turbo 2.8L makes 295lb-ft of torque). GM has not released official economy ratings for the 3.6L V6 but the company promises that it will be comparable to the out-going 3.0L V6 that offers 18 around town and 25 on the highway…with the new engine also packing more power.

Inside, the 2012 Cadillac SRX gets a few touch-ups in the way of standard Bluetooth on all models, door lock buttons located on the driver and passenger door panels (the current SRX only has door lock controls on the center stack), and a standard heated steering wheel on the luxury, performance and premium trimlines. In addition, the SRX will offer all of the same features that you would expect from a modern Cadillac, including heated leather seats and the incredible, massive sunroof that covers around 70% of the roofline.

Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac marketing, offered the following comment with the announcement of the 2012 Cadillac SRX:
“SRX is resonating with luxury buyers by offering the function of a crossover and the distinctive style of a Cadillac. Now, we’re raising the standards even higher by providing the SRX with enhanced performance. The new engine will make the SRX more responsive for passing on the highway, entering freeways from on-ramps and climbing hills.”

Production of the 2012 Cadillac SRX is expected to begin this summer with the first examples of the refreshed crossover reaching dealerships in the late summer. Pricing for the 3.6L-powered Cadillac SRX will be released closer to the time when new models are showing up in dealerships around the country. I have had a chance to spent some time in a 2011 Cadillac SRX with the 2.8L turbo V6 and it was an incredible vehicle. The gearhead in me finds it a little disappointing to see the turbo engine go the way of the Do-Do but with the 3.6L V6 providing similar power over a larger rpm range, it should help to continue to popularity of the sporty Caddy crossover.

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