My V8 doesn't seem to be burning oil at all, after 55k miles. Shortly after buying my SRX, I came across this article about oil consumption through this site (thanks!).
http://www.caddyinfo.com/northstaroil.htm
It says Northstars don't like to be babied. I don't know if its all factual, but seems plausible to me. I bought the SRX for the engine and the suspension, and I because i like to drive. I take good care of my cars, but I dont baby any of my motors!
Keep in mind that no one has ever designed a high revving, quad cam V8 to get groceries. They are designed to be driven. Maybe the cure for (or protection against) excessive oil consumption is a few good runs on some open roads. That's my plan, for now.
If it starts to go south, I may just downsize to a CTS-V or a BMW 335 and buy an old Escalade for hauling.