Drove SRX at Cadillac Event

[pgaX5]

Cadillac has been taking the SRX Crossover around the country and staging events where one can drive it back-to-back with competitive models, including the X5 XDrive30. I'm about to order an X5 for my wife, and thought it would be a good opportunity to drive one without bothering my CA, who I've already put through his paces.

I have to say that, while the BMW is clearly the better car, the SRX makes a compelling case for itself from a value standpoint. A fully loaded SRX AWD with the 265hp 3 Liter tops out just under $50K, while an X5 with comparable options is around $63K. If money isn't a factor, then the X5 wins hands-down. I love BMW's and am willing to cut back in other areas to be able to have one in the family.

My wife and I previously looked at the MDX thinking that if we had to cut back more, it would be a good option. After today, I would say that the SRX is not so much a competitor to the X5, but aimed squarely at the MDX. Ride quality is not as good as the E70, but better than the MDX. The interior is modern and tasteful, but dimensions feel tighter than in the E70. Very similar to the MDX. The SRX also looks better in the flesh than an MDX, especially with the top-line wheels.

Cadillac has come a long way in the past few years and I think the SRX will surprise anyone who drives it. Having said that, I think BMW (any BMW) is worth sacrificing for!