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

Cadillac's mix of smooth, pebbled and mesh textures inside the SRX is mostly successful, but designers could tailor a more cohesive and upscale look by matching grain on all control bezels save those on the dashboard. Build quality is decent, but too many panels and parts flex under pressure, and our test SRX suffered several mystery rattles and squeaks.

Underway, the 2004 Cadillac SRX is mostly serene. Wind rush around the front glass is the most intrusive aural annoyance at speed, while constant rattles and squeaks accompany city driving. Large bumps deliver suspension noise to the cabin, but the engine and tires are barely evident regardless of conditions.