Ahead of its launch in Detroit next week Cadillac has revealed details of the new SRX crossover. Employing a range of V6 engines it is designed to be a more fuel-efficient vehicle than its predecessor whilst still offering the luxury that customers expect.

The latest version of the SRX features an all-new body that appears more compact than the old one; that's thanks to minimal overhangs and sweeping curves. European pedestrian protection requirements were taken into account when shaping the front end too, which features the traditional Cadillac grille and vertical headlamps.

Hand cut and stitched coverings on the instrument panel and ambient lighting are intended to give the cabin a touch of "old world craftsmanship". The level of equipment is right up-to-date though with a hard disk drive for storing music, a dual screen entertainment system for rear seat passengers and a pop-up screen in the front on models equipped with satellite navigation.

In the USA the SRX will be offered with a 3.0-litre naturally aspirated V6 and a 2.8-litre turbocharged V6. Estimated power figures for the two engines are 258bhp and 300bhp respectively. A V6 turbodiesel is likely to be added to the range for the UK and European markets. Although official fuel consumption figures have not been revealed, Cadillac suggests that the petrol-powered SRX will return approximately 30mpg on the highway.

The six-speed automatic transmission can take some of the credit for relatively economical running, with an "eco" mode designed to change gear at the most economical engine speed and a lock-up clutch to minimise transmission slip. Electronic limited-slip differentials control the distribution of power both between the front and rear and from side to side on the rear axle. According to the manufacturer the four-wheel drive system is designed both to provide grip in slippery conditions and ensure that the SRX remains stable in high-speed cornering.

Passive safety is taken care of thanks to a body designed with high-strength steel in the sills to maintain the safety cell in front and rear-end crashes whilst also providing protection against side impacts. The interior is equipped with multiple airbags including curtain and pelvic/thorax side airbags.

The 2010 Cadillac SRX will make its debut at the North America International Auto Show in Detroit next week. We expect the specification and prices of the UK-market version to be announced just before the SRX goes on sale in the autumn.

John Lambert - 9 Jan 2009