At next week’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit, General Motors Corp. will unveil its new Cadillac next-generation SRX luxury crossover – the mid-size 2010 SRX – with combined characteristics of a car and an SUV.

With a six-cylinder engine to power the brand, the new crossover replaces the SRX model, launched originally in 2004. Offering more-efficient engine choices, the new SRX is being launched in competition to rival vehicles such as Lexus RX from Toyota, Acura MDX from Honda, and X3 and X5 from BMW AG.

Some of the ‘standards’ of the new crossover would be - a six-speed automatic transmission, a 260-hp 3.0-liter direct-injected V6, and eighteen-inch wheels. A few ‘optionals’ include - a 300 hp, 2.8-liter turbo V6, an all-wheel drive with an electronic limited-slip differential, and 20-inch wheels.

The new SRX will come with a curving roofline, and a still aggressive-looking yet more rounded ‘nose.’ Though its fuel-economy testing is not complete, GM says it will get around 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

According to a press release, the 2010 Cadillac SRX is a “distinctive alternative” for the present day’s luxury crossover consumer.

In the opinion of Cadillac/Premium Channel’s, North America vice president, Mark McNabb, “The all-new SRX is a fresh and compelling crossover aimed squarely at the priorities of luxury buyers. With new technologies for increased efficiency and safety, the redesigned 2010 SRX Crossover focuses on both the emotional and pragmatic sides of the luxury consumer.”