First launched in Europe in 2004, the crossover Cadillac SRX set a new trend in combining the sporty exterior and driving dynamics of a luxury station wagon with the offroad capabilities and interior space of a sport utility vehicle. Further enhancing the appeal of the SRX for 2007, are a redesigned interior, a competitively priced rear-wheel-drive V-6 model, an enhanced V-8 Northstar model with six-speed automatic gearbox, a Sport Package and the option of RHD.

cadillac-srx

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: cadillac-srx

2008 Cadillac SRX

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2008 Cadillac SRX
  • Engine/Motor: 4-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, TSCC
  • Horsepower: 258 @ 6500
  • Torque: 339 Nm @ 2800
  • Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

A genuine all-rounder, the Cadillac SRX remains the division’s first-ever luxury crossover vehicle and it expresses Cadillac's bold design vocabulary with its crisp, sharp-edged look, striking vertical headlights, bold front side sections and the V-shaped front tapering into the classic Cadillac grille.


The SRX is now being offered with a wider choice of powertrains. The 4.6-litre, 32-valve V-8 Northstar engine, extensively re-engineered and mounted longitudinally in the first all wheel-drive application of the Northstar engine family, is a sophisticated, technically advanced powerplant that generates 239 kW (325 hp) at 6500 rpm and 427 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. This sophistication is now further enhanced with a new, more responsive efficient six-speed automatic transmission.


The 3.6L V-6 VVT power plant develops 190 kW (258 hp) at 6500 rpm and 339 Nm of torque at 2700 rpm. The 60-degree dual overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve powerplant boasts electronic throttle control, variable valve timing, multi-port fuel injection, two-stage roller chain cam drive, aluminium block and cylinder heads and a forged steel crankshaft coupled to a five-speed automatic gearbox. In addition to all wheel-drive transmission, the V-6 is now also available with a competitively-priced rear-wheel drive option.


Both 5- and 6-speed Automatic transmissions feature Driver Shift Control (which offers clutchless manual shifting), electronically controlled engine braking, downgrade detection with brake assist, and Performance Algorithm Liftfoot.


Chassis management and vehicle control systems on the SRX offer a high level of sophistication to respond accordingly to all types of driving conditions. Features include the latest four-channel StabiliTrak active suspension control and a segment-first option of Magnetic Ride Control, which uses electronically controlled magnetic-fluid based real time damping to create the world's fastest reacting suspension control system. Speed sensitive variable effort steering, four-channel ABS with Panic Brake Assist and traction control are included.


Significant changes for the 2007 SRX’s redesigned cabin use softer surfaces, new flush-mounted switches and controls, along with enhanced storage capacity. The new design features a clever “hidden” storage compartment on the passenger side of the instrument panel. The wood trim on the passenger side opens to reveal a wide, added storage bin above the existing glove box.


The new SRX cabin utilizes Cadillac’s new “cut-and-sew” interior process that combines advanced technology with the hand-rendered precision of expert craftsmen. Coverings for components such as the instrument panel, center console and door trim are cut, sewn and wrapped mostly by hand.


“The SRX is the latest and most complete example of our new approach to interiors, blending advanced technology with the hand craftsmanship that was once – and is again becoming – a Cadillac trademark,” says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “This new interior adds to SRX’s compelling package of design, performance, luxury and value, within the practicality of a crossover vehicle.”


At 2.96 metres, the Cadillac SRX has one of the longest wheelbases in its class, providing an unusual amount of rear legroom. Usually, the SRX is a five-seater with a spacious cargo area. The rear seats can be asymmetrically split and folded down, increasing the cargo volume to over 1960 litres. A third row of seats can also be ordered, enabling up to seven people to enjoy the luxurious interior. In order that the cargo bed can still be used, the third row can be power-folded into the floor at the touch of a button.


The five-seat version of the SRX offers another useful option; a cargo system behind the second row of seats provides practical storage alternatives. Three large compartments integrated into the floor can accommodate items of differing sizes and are equipped with easily removable receptacles. A cargo shade and cargo net always ensure a tidy appearance at the back

A further optional innovation feature is “Ultra View”, a huge glass sliding roof that is operated electrically. The resulting aperture when open gives occupants the pleasure of an open-air driving experience, or when closed an airy, light-flooded interior.


The latest SRX has significantly enhanced in-vehicle electronics and entertainment including, for the first time on the SRX, the option of the premium Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround digital audio system. Another option for SRX buyers is a “theatre” package consisting of Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround, DVD navigation and rear-seat DVD entertainment. The Bose sound system that has previously been offered as an option now becomes a standard feature.


From early in 2007, SRX-appeal will be further enhanced with a new Sport Package. This adds a fresh exterior look with front and rear sport fascias, 18-inch aluminium wheels, sport grille and dual chrome exhaust tips.


The SRX is being built alongside its CTS, CTS-V, STS and STS-V stable mates at GM’s award-winning Lansing Grand River Assembly Center in Lansing, Mich., USA.


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 Design




Visually bridging the gap between performance sedan and SUV, the innovative, bold styling of the Cadillac SRX remains as eye-catching today as it did on its introduction in 2004.


With its bold lines and long, lean look, SRX stands out in a world of soft shapes. Its head-turning design is a prime example of Cadillac's overall design theme to create vehicles that make an immediate, emotional connection with buyers.


“There was no middle ground - SRX had to be bold enough to make an immediate connection, to stand out in an increasingly crowded segment,” says Kip Wasenko, exterior vehicle designer. “Collectively, SRX's design features blend power and performance, athletic strength and refinement, visually expressing its combination of utility and performance. In short, it's what a utility with the heart and soul of a sedan looks like.”


The Cadillac SRX blends the look of an SUV with the bold, eye-pleasing sporting lines first seen with the CTS sedan. It also carries traditional Cadillac family design cues such as the V-shaped grille and vertical taillights and headlamps, which first appeared on Cadillac models in 1965.


While the raised front fascia, raised rockers and command view seating are themes expressed in luxury sport utility vehicles, the SRX also follows the look of CTS with its sharp lines that cascade from front to rear, imparting a sense of motion, fluidity and dynamism. Other cues implying performance include a subtle break line forming a slight angle down the centre of the engine cover, the raked windshield and the sleek rear windows with a tapering C-pillar that is readily identifiable as a Cadillac.


Vertical headlamps with dual-projector lamps have a distinctive, modern jewel-like appearance. Their corners are rounded for more contours and to enhance aerodynamics. Tail lamps echo the vertical orientation of the headlamps and reinforce the height of the vehicle. The lamps are fast firing, instant-on LEDs. These lights have clear red lenses revealing the light facets, echoing the jewel-like quality of the headlamps.


Interior


The interior, upgraded for 2007 models, extends Cadillac's design philosophy with upscale materials, comfortable, ergonomic seats and thoughtfully placed controls and switches. The redesigned cabin uses softer surfaces, new flush-mounted switches and controls, along with enhanced storage capacity.

The new design features a clever “hidden” storage compartment on the passenger side of the instrument panel. The wood trim on the passenger side opens to reveal a wide, added storage bin above the existing glove box.


Wood trim envelops the SRX cockpit, starting on the rear doors and continuing to the front doors and through the instrument panel. The optional trim uses Sapele Pommele, a particularly rich wood from East Africa, rarely used on luxury cars. It is more often favoured by makers of fine home furnishings and high-end acoustic guitars.


While the now-universal use of front airbags on new vehicles normally requires a visible “door” or opening in the dash, the hand assembly of SRX’s instrument panel enables the passenger front airbag to be invisibly concealed. Craftsmen use a technique called “skiving” to carve tiny perforations into the reverse side of the material, through which the airbag can deploy. This eliminates the conventional plastic cover and the corresponding gaps seen on nearly all other vehicles.


SRX options include an open-air driving experience, power-operated flip-and-fold third row seat with room for up to seven passengers, or a spacious, adjustable second-row seat with flat load floor and an innovative rear cargo system.


However the most noted feature of the SRX interior is its space. At 2.96 metres, the Cadillac SRX has one of the longest wheelbases in its class, providing the ideal foundation for an exceptional amount of legroom at the back with 10 cm of fore and aft back seat travel.


Elevated seating positions ensure that not only is the driver positioned with a commanding view of the road. The “command performance” extends to rows behind, where theatre seating provides excellent visibility for all occupants. The second row seat sits 5 cm higher than the first row. The optional power-operated flip-fold third row seat rises 12 cm above the second.


This allows rear passengers to see the road ahead - or have a better view of the rear seat entertainment system. SRX has a number of optional entertainment features. These include a rear seat entertainment system with a 7-inch flip up LCD screen mounted on the back of the center console, DVD player, infrared headphones, video game jacks and a remote control. A DVD navigation system is also optional.





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 Engine and Transmission




The heart of any true driver's vehicle is its powertrain. The Cadillac SRX features two high-tech powerplants, including the first all-wheel-drive application of the legendary Northstar V-8 engine and a compact, high-performing 3.6 litre V-6.


The 4.6 litre, 32-valve Northstar engine, mounted longitudinally, generates 239 kW (325 hp) at 6500 rpm and 427 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. The extensively re-engineered engine was first used in a longitudinal installation in the Cadillac XLR luxury roadster and made its debut in an all-wheel drive vehicle in the Cadillac SRX in 2004. It incorporates a host of technical innovations, including electronic throttle control and phasers on all four camshafts to control valve timing throughout the entire operating range.


The system allows intake and exhaust valves to operate independently of each other. This assures precise timing for opening and closing the valves, extremely accurate control of fuel injection and more efficient combustion, with minimal compromise between emissions and performance through the operating range from idle to high speed. The new VVT system also eliminates the need for an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and associated emissions hardware, reducing complexity and weight.


The 4.6L Northstar V-8 VVT also features electronic “drive-by-wire” throttle control (ETC). With ETC, there is no mechanical link between the accelerator pedal and the throttle. The system receives inputs for power via pedal position sensors, engine control sensors, cruise control commands, traction control events, and transmission shift energy commands via the engine control module.


It also helps achieve maximum fuel efficiency with high output while ensuring a clean burn at lower power settings. It enables other functions, such as cruise control, torque management and traction control to be fully integrated, eliminating hardware complexity and improving reliability. The engine also features low-restriction intake and exhaust manifolds and cylinder head ports to ensure optimum air flow for maximum performance and better emissions quality, aided by close coupled catalytic converters, mounted directly adjacent to the exhaust manifold for added efficiency and rapid warm-up from cold starts.


The 3.6-litre power unit is a compact, 60-degree aluminium double overhead cam, 24-valve V-6 engine with variable valve timing (VVT). It is rated at 190 kW (258 hp) at 6500 rpm and 339 Nm of torque at 2800 rpm. 90 percent of peak torque is available in a wide band from 1600 to 5800 rpm.


The V-6 VVT is fitted with a number of performance refinements, including continuously variable cam phasing; electronic throttle control; multi-port fuel injection; two-stage roller chain cam drive; aluminium crankcase and cylinder heads; a variable plenum intake manifold and a forged steel crankshaft. It also features coil-on-plug ignition with individual cylinder adaptive knock control, secondary throat cut inlet ports and a 10.2:1 compression ratio.


The V-6 VVT also features NVH refinements such as isolated cam covers, an acoustically damped front cover, cushioned crank sprocket, polymer-coated piston skirts and a specifically designed acoustic top cover.


Gearboxes



The two Cadillac SRX models each use high-tech Hydra-Matic transmissions, assembled in Strasbourg, France. While the V-6 model continues to use the 5L40-E five-speed transmission, new for 2007 is the 6L50 Hydra-Matic six-speed transmission that provides increased performance and fuel efficiency. First introduced on Cadillac’s acclaimed STS-V and XLR-V Series, the new transmission is now standard for all V-8 models.


While the SRX has so far been offered in Europe with all-wheel drive only, a rear-wheel-drive version will be added to the SRX line-up and will reach the market early in 2007.


Both 5- and 6-speed Automatic transmissions feature Driver Shift Control (which offers clutchless manual shifting), electronically controlled engine braking, downgrade detection with brake assist, and Performance Algorithm Liftfoot.


Driver Shift Control (DSC) lets the driver switch from automatic to a clutchless high-performance manual transmission. Once the driver moves the gearshift lever into DSC mode, a quick tap is all that is required for smooth, crisp upshifts or downshifts within a selected range. It also has coast clutches to provide engine braking in all gears.


Performance Algorithm Liftfoot (PAL) prevents upshifts while maintaining engine braking for continuous spirited driving. A Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors driver behaviour to determine whether to enable this feature. If the system detects a drop in vehicle speed prior to entering a turn, up to two downshifts can occur to provide the driver with maximum vehicle performance.


The transmission controller modifies the automatic gear selection during closed throttle high lateral acceleration manoeuvres, downshifting with nearly synchronous engine speed control for quick power up when the throttle is reopened. This feature is enabled instantly the TCM recognizes a high lateral g input.


Both transmissions also feature shift stabilization, which minimizes “gear hunting” in hilly or mountainous regions, along with downgrade detection with brake assist and electronically controlled engine braking.


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Chassis, Ride and Handling




The Cadillac SRX has provided a breakthrough in levels of performance and “drivability” to the luxury sport-utility segment. All wheel-drive, independent suspension and outstanding chassis control systems including optional Magnetic Ride Control, are combined with outstanding powertrain combinations to create a true driver’s car, rare in sport-utility vehicles.


The combination of the chassis with its superior ride quality and dynamic stability, a near 50-50 weight distribution, a low centre of gravity, all-wheel drive, an outstanding powertrain combination and a host of the latest vehicle stability technologies contribute to making SRX a rare sport-utility vehicle that is, at its core, fun to drive.


The car’s handling precision is perfectly matched by its Electronic Variable Assist Power Steering, a speed-sensitive system, standard on all SRX models. Steering effort increases in relation to vehicle speed, giving the driver better road feel and vehicle control at higher speeds. At slower speeds, steering effort is reduced for quicker response and better manoeuvrability in more confined situations, such as parking lots, where a further bonus is a relatively tight 12.1 m turning radius.


As with the Cadillac CTS sedan, engineers began with a good starting point; the exceptional torsional rigidity and outstanding dynamics of the Sigma architecture of the SRX. The independent short/long arm (SLA) front suspension features aluminium front upper and lower control arms, reducing unsprung mass to enhance handling and wheel control. Reduced unsprung mass requires less damping and provides better road-holding ability over repeated inputs. Front shock absorbers are monotube dampers, which provide virtually instant damping from road inputs.


The independent multi-link rear suspension with fully isolated rear frame is one of the most advanced in the segment. Aiding the subtle ride is exceptional wheel travel, with 200 mm of travel in the front and nearly 250 mm in the rear. The greater the suspension travel, the more room to dissipate the energy of a bump underneath the wheels, resulting in smoother ride quality.


The multi-link design provides maximum tuning flexibility so the suspension can react to given forces in a predetermined manner. Under high lateral cornering forces, for example, the rear wheels will react with the correct camber and toe to avoid any rapid destabilizing changes. The rear suspension also uses load-levelling shocks. The fully automatic hydraulic level-regulating system adapts automatically to different loads and road conditions.


The SRX is equipped with four-wheel vented disc brakes with standard four-wheel antilock braking system and traction control system. All four brakes feature vented rotors (323 x 32 mm front and 320 x 26 mm rear) with lightweight aluminium calipers to meet performance demands. Front calipers are a dual piston design while rear calipers are single piston.


The system also includes Dynamic Rear Brake Proportioning, which regulates braking pressure to optimize stopping distances and control under all vehicle-loading conditions. For example, the system can determine which wheel is on the outside of the curve as yaw develops and adjusts braking pressure accordingly.


Both V-6 and V-8 models are equipped with speed-rated performance all-season radial tires optimized for ride, handling and dynamic capability. The Elegance model has 17-inch and the Sport Luxury models wear 18-inch tyres.


The Cadillac SRX also offers as an option, the state-of-the-art Magnetic Ride Control system which has been developed to ensure extremely accurate handling in situations involving sudden driving manoeuvres at high speeds. The innovative system utilizes the magnetic properties of iron particles to adapt the damping continuously to the state of the road and the driver's behaviour.


The Magnetic Ride Control system first made its debut in 2001 in the Cadillac Seville STS. It has subsequently been incorporated in the latest generation Corvettes and the Cadillac XLR luxury roadster. The SRX marked it’s first-ever use in an all-wheel drive application.


The system uses magnetic-rheological (MR) fluid technology. MR fluid is a suspension of iron particles in a synthetic fluid. When the system is activated, the particles are magnetized and aligned, changing the flow resistance of the fluid. An on-board computer controls changes in damping forces, via magnetic coils contained in the shock absorbers, allowing the damping of each wheel to be varied 1,000 times a second – a performance unmatched by any other system. This level of response provides increased wheel contact on even the roughest road, delivering a more even ride by virtually eliminating heave, pitch and roll. It also delivers excellent roll damping control during hard cornering and evasive manoeuvres.





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Equipment




A genuine all-rounder, Cadillac’s first-ever luxury crossover SRX is a bridge between Cadillac’s premium-entry and full-size sedans and powerful luxury SUVs, attracting a stream of younger buyers to the brand. Its high level of standard and optional equipment reflects that.


Usually, the SRX is a five-seater with a spacious cargo area. The rear seats can be asymmetrically split and folded down, increasing the cargo volume to over 1,960 litres. A third row of seats can also be ordered, enabling up to seven people to enjoy the luxurious interior. In order that the cargo bed can still be used, the third row can be power-folded into the floor at the touch of a button.


For 2007, the SRX in-vehicle electronics and entertainment have received major enhancement. The renowned Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround ™ digital audio system is available as an option for the first time on SRX. The previous Bose system that had been optional now becomes standard. Also, SRX now offers a “theatre” package consisting of Bose ™ 5.1 Cabin Surround ™ , DVD navigation and rear seat DVD entertainment. The audio system now also features an auxiliary port for connecting MP3 devices such as an IPod.


The Cadillac SRX is also offering the thrill of open-air driving, with the glass sunroof. Not only can SRX drivers and front seat passengers enjoy a convertible-like experience by opening the optional UltraView roof, the experience can be shared with second and even third-row passengers too.


Cantilevering up and back to open, the UltraView powered glass roof provides over 450 cm2 of open air over the front and second-row passengers. Vehicles with a third row seat are available with the UltraView Plus, which includes a vented glass panel over the rear row for a total of 650 square centimetres of sky.


The UltraView system also features an integrated wind deflector to ensure occupant comfort when travelling with the roof open at speed, while integrated power shades can reduce sun glare and heat when required. These feature a fully automated one-button operation, or can be operated independently for front and rear sunroofs.


A key priority in SRX development was on providing usable and convenient storage space. The standard roof rack extends the vehicle's storage capability. Additional areas for storage include covered front door bins, front door map pockets, front seatback pockets, front center console with two compartments, a bin behind the front console, glove box with shelf, covered cup holders in the front seat center console and second seat fold-down console with cup holders. SRX also has rear coat hooks accessible from the rear passenger doors or liftgate.


A further example of the innovative approach to practical solutions on the Cadillac SRX is its optional Rear Cargo Management system, available as an alternative to the third row seat. The system offers three cargo compartments and includes removable storage bins, all designed to blend visually with the flat rear load floor.


They are perfect for stowing anything from a car care or emergency kit to sports equipment, DVDs or CDs for a long drive. For still more cargo packing, large side storage bins along the rear cargo area are also standard - and a cargo net is available to always ensure a tidy appearance and the safety of items in the luggage area.


For added security, an optional integrated cargo area cover hides items stored on the luggage area floor. The colour of the cover is fully integrated with the interior design and unlike many more visually obtrusive seat back-mounted systems, the Cadillac cargo area cover virtually disappears into the side wall of the rear compartment when it is not in use.


SRX has a total of six airbags offered as standard equipment. The airbags are designed to work in conjunction with the seat belt system to help protect occupants while minimizing the risk of injury to out-of-position occupants.


The SRX is equipped with a dual stage driver’s front airbag and front passenger airbag, driver’s and front passenger side seat-mounted airbags for thorax protection and two roof rail side curtain airbags for head protection in the first and second rows. All are controlled by an airbag system central control unit - the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM).


When the SDM detects an impact, it determines whether the crash is severe enough to trigger a deployment and whether the primary amount of inflation is sufficient, or if both primary and secondary stage inflation is required. The primary stage alone will deploy in most frontal impacts requiring the supplemental protection of an airbag, while the secondary stage will also deploy in very severe frontal collisions.


The SDM also detects side impacts and determines whether the rail-curtain airbags should deploy. These airbags act like a protective curtain, unfolding from the roof rail between the A and C pillars. When the bag deploys, it is angled towards the window to help maximize protection.


Other standard safety features on SRX include Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, seatbelt pretensioners, the LATCH system (an anchor and tether for easy installation of child seats at both outboard positions of SRX's second row), child security door and window locks, anti-theft protection and battery rundown protection.


From early in 2007, SRX-appeal will be further enhanced with a new Sport Package. This adds a fresh exterior look with front and rear sport fascias, 18-inch aluminium wheels, sport grille and dual chrome exhaust tips.



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Technology




The same high-technology structure that makes Cadillac SRX one of the best handling and performing vehicles in its segment also helps make it a safe vehicle. The upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, BFI, Body Frame Integral structure, enabling a more mass efficient and stiffer body shell.


SRX makes extensive use of ultra-high strength steel welded into the body structure. High-strength steel is used on the octagonal motor rails, rocker panels and longitudinal rails of SRX. The instrument panel houses what is actually the vehicle's largest structural member. Behind the dash is a two-piece, cross-vehicle magnesium casting. It runs across the upper front of the dash in the cowl area, is attached below at a junction with the A-pillars and complements the frame's first cross member running parallel to it below the floor.


These structural enhancements contribute to a beaming frequency on the all-new Cadillac SRX of approximately 23 hertz - a stiffness rating that approaches world-class status. This enables solid, sport sedan-like handling, extremely low NVH and outstanding levels of passive safety.


The crush zones of the SRX are reinforced with steel and designed to provide superior occupant protection. The foundation/safety cage, which consists of the floor pan, rocker panels, center tunnel and A- and B-pillars, supports the frontal crush zone and redirects energy away from the occupant compartment.


As well as class-leading passive safety in both its structure and equipment, the Cadillac SRX leads the way in dynamic safety too. The same advanced technologies that give stirring performance and excellent road behaviour, also create a safe vehicle in all driving conditions.


The vehicle's strong, all-weather performance makes it a true driver's car, with the latest technologies helping SRX drivers to stay in confident control. In the all wheel-drive models the SRX AWD system runs a 60/40 torque split, front and rear, automatically diverting more to a specific wheel or wheels in the event of slippage.


SRX is equipped with a standard four-wheel antilock braking system (ABS) and traction control system (TCS). The four-channel ABS system monitors the speed of each wheel individually, allows individual wheel braking for superior control and backup braking should one of the two braking circuits fail. The ABS software, using both steering wheel and yaw sensors, lets the system differentiate between straight-line braking and braking in a turn.


The system also features Panic Brake Assist and Dynamic Rear Brake proportioning. Panic Brake Assist senses emergency braking by detecting the speed or force at which the driver presses the brake pedal and boosts brake power as needed. Dynamic Rear Brake Proportioning regulates braking pressure to optimize stopping distances and control under all conditions.


The full-function Traction Control System, which is integrated with ABS, also is an all-speed, four-channel system. It combines both torque and brake control to regulate wheel spin at all driving speeds for maximum driver control regardless of conditions. When the system senses impending wheel slip during acceleration, it signals the throttle control to reduce drive wheel torque. Under extreme situations, such as going from pavement to ice during acceleration, the system will selectively apply the brakes to maintain control.


Fully integrated chassis control is augmented by the StabiliTrak system. This is a sophisticated four-channel active handling system, giving independent control to all four corners of the vehicle. It links the vehicle's dynamic control systems, including ABS and traction control, to assist in maintaining control under demanding conditions such as wet, snow-covered or icy roads, tight turns, and evasive manoeuvres.


StabiliTrak determines the driver's intentions and optimizes overall vehicle control to keep the dynamic forces within safe limits in any driving situation. The system primarily integrates the ABS and Traction Control Systems to control all four corners of the vehicle in response to yaw and in relation to steering input. The system's algorithm determines the point of activation based on data from an array of sensors: wheel speed, yaw rate, lateral accelerometer, master cylinder pressure, steering wheel angle and vehicle velocity.


Should the driver exceed the performance limits of the road surface, the system applies one, some or all of the brakes to adjust the yaw rate. It can cycle between ABS and Traction Control to control wheel slip from deceleration or acceleration, or perform a combination of actions.


In vehicles fitted with optional Magnetic Ride Control, at the same time the available MR controller will activate to control the weight transfer, or roll gradient, of the vehicle - for example stiffening the right front corner to maintain stability if that brake is applied. The system enhances handling, vehicle stability and directional control as the car approaches its limits and can correct a potential slide or loss of control before the driver is even aware of it.