Oldsmobile launched a new midsize sedan with an old name for 1997, to replace the aged Cutlass Ciera--which had often been the company's best-selling model. Sharing basic structure and styling with the also-new Chevrolet Malibu, the latest Cutlass came with a higher level of standard equipment. Differences included a standard 3.1-liter V6 engine (an option on Malibu), as well as styling and trim variations. For one more year, Oldsmobile continued to offer a Cutlass Supreme, continuing the confusion about Cutlass models. Two price levels were offered: base and GLS. Standard equipment included air conditioning, antilock brakes, power locks, a split folding rear seat, daytime running lights--plus a system that automatically turned on headlights, taillights, and dashboard lights when darkness fell. Weighing about the same as the previous Ciera, the new Cutlass was 400 pounds lighter than a Cutlass Supreme. Its engine was borrowed form the Supreme. Only a 4-speed automatic transmission was available. Rivals included the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camry.