1997-2005 Buick Century: Road Test

Smooth and reasonably quiet, the V6 engine provides adequate acceleration, but it growls when asked to deliver sufficient action for passing. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and promptly. Wind and road noise are low at highway speeds. A test Century averaged 28 mpg in mostly highway driving, and 18.5 mpg in urban conditions. Only one suspension is used, and it's too soft for many drivers. Most bumps are absorbed well, but the body continues to bounce long after the initial impact. This limp suspension also allows too much body lean in turns, and makes the Century feel queasy over rough pavement surfaces. Retuning for '99 made the suspension deliver better control in turns, but body lean remains pronounced. Century has a spacious interior that provides adult-size room, front and rear. Four occupants would be happier than five or six, however. Tall, wide doors ease entry and exit. As for luggage, the roomy trunk has a wide, flat floor, but you have to reach over a wide bumper-level shelf for loading and unloading. Instruments are easy to read, but limited to a speedometer and fuel and coolant gauges. Most controls are clearly marked, easy for the driver to reach. Climate controls, however, are mounted low enough so they might interfere with a center passenger's knees. In addition, standard cloth seats are so softly padded that they might not suit everyone.

Value for the Money
Though Century performs admirably, it won't satisfy an enthusiastic driver. Still, it's quiet, comfortable, and economical for a 6-passenger automobile. Modern and well thought out, it retains the no-surprises theme that made the prior Century popular with older buyers.