kaedwards, I have also done a lot of research and have learned a lot about vehicles in this class (full disclosure: I have a 2013 SRX Premium on order). I discount Consumer Reports' opinion a lot because they historically have what I consider an irrational love of Japanese-made vehicles over similar American vehicles. My guess is that in this class the Lexus RX350 had the best overall ratings. Other vehicles I've looked at were the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Audi Q5. On style and comfort alone, I would have chosen the Jeep, but it was just too big for my needs. I didn't like the interior of the Audi. I also considered the Range Rover Evoque, and didn't like that interior either, and have concerns with quality as time goes on.
Do you know how many people were sampled in the CR survey? What was the biggest reason for their dissatisfaction? Do you have a web link to the CR article so others can read it? A lot of times people are angry at themselves for investing a lot of money in something they really didn't want and made an emotional decision because of a sales pitch. They just complain about the vehicle because they won't actually blame themselves.
Read the forums here...there are complaints about CUE and other aspects of the 2013 SRX, and among those complaints I remember only 1 or 2 who have said they won't buy another SRX or Cadillac. There are many compliments and good reviews. Read about previous model years that have underpowered engines or don't have the safety features or technology that the 2013 does. Ask those who did or didn't plan to buy a 2013 after having an earlier model...why did they make their decision? Did others pick a 2013 SRX because they were dissatisfied with something else?
Any car, be it a Ford, Hyundai, Cadillac, or Bugatti...it is going to have flaws. Pick the vehicle you like based on the things you like best, and deal with what you like least. I'm a technology professional and really love the CUE, and even though I haven't used it in everyday, it has impressed me tremendously. It's first generation technology and will have its share of flaws. Some say that Cadillac may have hurried it too quickly to market, but the issues are mostly usability issues with music players and navigation (yes, others too). There are fortunately no safety issues. One thing is that Cadillac is making a laudable effort to fix issues only 6 months into the first model year, plus giving them $50 and a tank of gas for their inconvenience. They didn't have to do that.
Lastly, good luck with whatever you decide to get, and I hope you're happy with it.
