1992-1996 Eagle Summit Wagon: Road Test

Compact size, great visibility, and good maneuverability at low speeds make the Summit Wagon a good urban vehicle. On the downside, you get lots of body lean in quick turns because of the vehicle's tall body and narrow track. Grip is poor with the base model's skinny tires, but improves with the LX wagon's wider rubber, and with the AWD version. Even if tight corners produce marked body roll and tire squealing, the Summit Wagon's ride is pliant--good over all surfaces. Braking feels strong and balanced, even without antilocking. Acceleration is adequate--but no more--with the base engine and manual shift, but that engine lacks sufficient torque to keep the automatic transmission from frequent gear-hunting. It feels particularly underpowered with automatic when the wagon is loaded with passengers and cargo. The stronger 2.4-liter engine is a better all-around choice, with more torque for better throttle response and pulling power. The standard 5-speed manual gearbox shifts smoothly, and has a light clutch. The wagon's automatic transmission downshifts quickly to maintain speed on hills or to pass, but its gear changes are rather harsh. Noise levels are high, which makes highway driving more tiring. Wind noise and road rumble are problems. Base models, in particular, are not well insulated against engine and wind sounds. Entry and exit are eased by the wagon's low step-in height. The minivan-style sliding right-rear passenger door opens and closes via a unique inner-rail mechanism, which eliminates the bodyside channel that's necessary with traditional sliding doors. Passenger room is plentiful. Cargo space behind the backseat is tight, but the rear bench folds flat and tumbles forward to create a flat load floor ahead of the tailgate. Seating positions are comfortably chairlike for great visibility out of an expansive greenhouse. However, the driver's seat might be too high for some shorter drivers. Gauges and controls are simple and logically laid out.

Value for the Money
This versatile "mini-minivan" is worth a look if you need more practical utility than a small station wagon can provide, but don't want a regular compact van.