Cadillac's SRX at top of luxury crossover segment

Cadillac's 2010 SRX rides a wave of new technology and old-time Cadillac style and comfort to the top of the luxury crossover segment.

From its V-shaped grille to subtle but menacing vestigial tailfins, the five-passenger SRX is the latest strong showing from Cadillac's design team.

A roomy and luxurious interior complements the sporty and modern exterior, while Cadillac showcases its new drivetrain technology with a pair of powerful V6s.

The six-speed automatic transmission could use some tuning for highway acceleration, but the SRX's confident handling and responsive steering make it one of the most enjoyable luxury crossovers to drive.

Add a competitive price and a taste for regular gasoline that makes the SRX less expensive to operate than its competitors and the SRX establishes itself as a clear leader among five-passenger luxury crossovers.

Modest, modern tailfins notwithstanding, the new 2010 Cadillac SRX luxury crossover jumps into the water as a predator, not prey.

Cadillac honed every nut, bolt and piece of trim on the all-new SRX to take a bite out of the Lexus RX 350, which is by far the best-selling luxury crossover.

More attractive, refined and sophisticated than the first-generation SRX, the all-new 2010 model beats the RX and other five-passenger competitors with its looks, features and value.

Prices for the 2010 SRX start at $33,300 for a front-wheel drive model powered by a 265-horsepower 3.0-liter direct-injection V6.

The least-expensive all-wheel drive model adds plenty of other features and starts at $39,405. Cadillac offers four SRX trim levels: Base, which only comes in front drive; Luxury Collection and Performance Collection, which come with either FWD or AWD; and Premium Collection, only available in AWD.

All SRXs have a six-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac will add a performance model powered by a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 later this year. Cadillac has not announced pricing for the turbo SRX.

I tested a well-equipped 3.0-liter SRX Performance Collection with a $46,540 sticker price.

The SRX competes with five-passenger luxury crossovers like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5 BMW X3, Lexus RX 350 and Mercedes-Benz GLK 350.