The 4.6-liter V8 delivers lots of power. Cadillac's latest-generation Northstar V8 is rated at 320 horsepower and 315 pounds-feet of torque. With the V8, the SRX can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds (6.9 for the heavier all-wheel-drive version), according to Cadillac. The SRX V8 we drove through the mountains of Arizona delivered smooth, confident power. It's rated to tow up to 4,250 pounds.

The SRX is also available with a new 3.6-liter V6 that makes 255 horsepower and 254 pounds-feet of torque. We have not tested the V6 model, but Cadillac engineers say the V6 versions are capable of 0-60 mph acceleration in the low 7-second range, which is reasonably quick. (Generally, the eight-second mark separates slow from fast.) The V6 offers a trailering package rated at 2,000 pounds, good for personal watercraft but not boats.

Both engines come with five-speed automatic transmissions, though different ones. The transmissions offer a manual-shift mode allowing the driver to change gears.

Cadillac engineers have focused on the SRX's all-weather capability with good results. To begin with, the SRX has a noticeably lower center of gravity than most sport utilities and a long wheelbase, all of which gives it better stability both in terms of roll (lean) and yaw.

Active safety systems improve its handling stability further: SRX comes standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, panic brake assist, and dynamic rear brake proportioning. It's also available with StabiliTrak, an active handling system designed to keep the SRX under the driver's control on wet, snowy and icy surfaces, in tight turns, and in evasive maneuvers. It is enhanced with optional Magnetic Ride Control, which GM calls the world's fastest reacting suspension control system. We highly recommend StabiliTrak for its ability to help you maintain control in slippery corners. ABS allows the driver to maintain steering control under hard braking. Brake Assist and dynamic rear brake proportioning improve braking performance and stability. Traction control improves stability when accelerating on slippery surfaces.

In a winter test drive in northern Michigan, the SRX performed well on ice and snow against its competitors. The SRX was the best all-around performer except for the Volvo XC90. As it began to slip or slide, the invisible co-pilot gently and unobtrusively nudged the SRX back on course.

Safety likely will be a major priority for families shopping the SRX, and Cadillac has addressed this. SRX comes standard with virtually every active and passive safety device available today. Crash-test results by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for 2005 were excellent: four stars for frontal impacts, five stars for side impacts. And the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the SRX "Good" grades for 40-mph offset frontal crashes.