You might remember last year Cadillac axed the Turbo version of the SRX due to poor sales. Now they ae trying out a new powertrain to pickup the slacks.

The new engine for the 2012 Cadillac SRX is a 3.6 liter direct-injected FlexFuel capable V-6 unit rated at 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque. In addition to more horsepower and torque, the new engine has a wider rpm range for its maximum torque, which gives the driver more power across a wider range of speeds and driving conditions.

As for the fuel economy, the new engine is yet to be rated by EPA, but the current 3.0 liter unit does 18 city/25 highway mpg. So you can roughly guess the performance of the new one. Cadillac says with this new engine the SRX will become a direct rival for the 275 horsepower Lexus RX350. Well, the Caddy is a damn sight better looking and offers more power as well.

Other enhancements on the 2012 SRX include standard Bluetooth phone connectivity on all models, a heated steering wheel on the luxury, performance and premium trim levels and door lock switches on the driver and passenger door panels. The new model will continue to have door lock switches on the center console. Also for 2012, SRX will offer a new machined-face finish on the 20-inch wheels, which are standard on performance and premium trim levels.

The SRX also offers some unique features over its rivals including items like a moveable cargo fence and large under-floor storage space in the rear, a liftgate that can be programmed to stop at different heights and an UltraView sunroof that covers 70 percent of the vehicle roof. It is also available in an all-wheel-drive version that incorporates an electronic limited slip rear differential.

Pricing for the the 2012 Cadillac SRX will be announced closer to the start of production.