Cadillac’s new SRX is the standard of the United States, if not the world

On the surface, the cabin of the 2004 Cadillac SRX looks and feels terrific. Closer inspection reveals cost cutting, such as cheap-looking lower dashboard panels, flimsy shades for the sunroof and cargo area, and the sticky operation of the glovebox door and ashtray cover. Pulled from the CTS sedan, the SRX's dash is dour in all-black and immediately strikes as obtuse and cheap, but it's actually extremely functional and comprised of quality bits and pieces.

Using the stereo and climate control systems is a joy. Cadillac endows the SRX with huge volume and tuning knobs, with a row of station pre-set buttons located up high where they are easy to find and use. Satellite audio controls are mounted to the steering wheel as an added convenience. Likewise, controls for the dual-zone climate control system are large, well marked, and equipped with a big display screen.