One of the roomiest and most powerful crossover SUVs on the market, the 2009 Cadillac SRX returns unchanged, in preparation for its replacement in 2010 by the upcoming BRX. Available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, the midsize luxury SRX exhibits responsive handling, relative stability, and more interior room and cargo space than many of its direct competitors.

Sharing its Sigma platform with the CTS sedan, the 2009 SRX seats five in two rows, with the option to add a third row for two more passengers. This extra row power-folds flat, but offers scant legroom. The first two rows, however, provide plenty of head- and legroom (41 inches each), with the second row sliding fore and aft to accommodate longer-limbed riders. The second row split-folds nearly flat, expanding the 32-cubic-foot cargo area to 70 cubic feet. A standard roof rack, plenty of storage bins, and a three-bin compartment in the cargo area turn this luxury ride into a functional family car.

The SRX comes in two trims, each featuring a different powertrain. A 3.6-liter V6 is paired with a 5-speed shiftable hydramatic automatic transmission, putting out 255 hp. It is capable of towing 2,000 pounds. Despite electronic throttle control and variable valve timing, the SUV gets only 15/22 mpg, and even less with all-wheel drive. The 4.6-liter V8 comes with a 6-speed shiftable automatic, delivering 320 hp and 4,250 pounds of towing capacity. Mileage figures drop slightly to 13/20 mpg. The V8 remains the preferred power plant, delivering a quiet, smooth ride with plenty of acceleration confidence. It's also the only trim (in rear-wheel-drive form) to offer optional Magnetic Ride Control. Reviewers rave about this new technology, which uses sensors to gauge driving conditions and adjusts the suspension accordingly. Without it, test drivers say the SRX's ride picks up every bump in the road.

Keeping in line with its family-car trappings, the 2009 SRX earns fairly good marks in crash tests. The NHTSA gives it four stars in frontal impact and five stars in side impact tests, but only three in rollover situations. Four-wheel ABS brakes, traction and stability control, 17-inch wheels, backup sensors, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags are all standard. As expected, the cabin exudes high-end comfort. Full power features, an 8-way power driver's seat, leather upholstery, wood and alloy accents, and a CD player come standard. The V8 adds xenon lights, heated seats, and a 6-CD player. Most of these features are available as options on the V6. You can also add an expansive sunroof, or its electronic equivalent (a DVD player), to keep kids distracted.

Reviewers agree the V8 version of the 2009 SRX offers the best overall ride in terms of sound level, handling, and maneuverability. The SRX drives like a sedan while offering the cargo and passenger space of a larger SUV. Rear visibility presents a problem, as does the surprising lack of a telescoping steering wheel. The third row is not recommended, due to difficult access and non-existent legroom.