1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker: Road Test

The initial 80-horsepower engine has sufficient power for decent acceleration and passing on the 2-door model. With automatic, you have to push the pedal to the floor often to keep up with traffic. That's true even with the 95-horsepower engine. In addition, four-doors are so sluggish with automatic that passing maneuvers have to be planned with care. Gas mileage is fine. We've averaged 24 mpg in a 4-wheel-drive convertible and 28.6 mpg with 2-wheel drive. Tall and narrow, a Tracker must be driven with care through turns due to a high center of gravity. Even if it's not quite as precarious as it may seem while cornering, the abundant body lean quickly grows frightening. The ride is undeniably choppy, and noise levels are high. Two-wheel-drive Trackers are softer suspended for easier going on rough pavement, but even they get choppy. A Tracker's interior is roomy for two in front, but the back seat is best for children. The driver's seat lacks much rearward travel, and suffers minimal space past one's left shoulder. Cargo space behind the rear seat is minuscule, but at least you can fold the seat forward if a load of parcels has to be transported. Controls operate smoothly; gauges are simple. Four-door wagons offer lots of head room, adequate rear leg space, and ample cargo area.

Value for the Money
More modern and refined than the paramilitary Jeep Wrangler, Trackers are appealing in many ways. Still, Trackers and Suzuki Sidekicks are just too rough and noisy for service as daily drivers.