Cadillac SRX Earns 'SUV of the Year' from Leading MidEast Publication

Saudi Auto, a leading Middle East motors publication, has recently named the Cadillac SRX the 'SUV of the Year' for 2005. The award for the Cadillac SRX is the latest in a number of global awards for the SRX, a luxury sport utility vehicle. In 2004 Car & Driver magazine awarded the vehicle as well.

"It is true that the Cadillac SRX is a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), but we found that it is like no other vehicle in its class," remarked 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"

Mr. Azher handed the Award to General Motors Chairman, Rick Wagoner, at GM's Annual Middle East Retailer Conference in Dubai. Wagoner said "I am especially pleased to accept this award on behalf of General Motors for the Cadillac SRX. 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."

Factors that Saudi Auto said contributed to its decision on the SRX being named 2005 SUV of the Year included overall performance, road handling, luxury features and the SRX's innovative overall offering to customers.

Industry analysts expect the all-new 3.6L V-6 Variable Valve Timing engine, as well as two V8 engines to choose from on 2005 models, will keep the Cadillac popular in the near term and possibly for years to come. The V6 engine has 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.

Resembling the Cadillac Escalade, CTS and STS, the SRX fills the gap between performance sedan and full-size SUV. Nearly all of the vehicle's interior space can be illuminated with daylight by the largest sunroof system available in its range. Also the optional "UltraView" roof provides the feel of an open-air driving experience, extending and offering more than five square feet of open air. The Cadillac SRX's "UltraView Plus" has a vented glass roof over the third row seat.