2000 Oldsmobile Bravada: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Oldsmobile's cloned sport-utility vehicle receives minor engine revisions and two new options for 2000 as it prepares for a redesign as an early 2002 model. Bravada is basically a luxury version of the 4-door Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy with the same V6 engine, automatic transmission, and standard antilock brakes. It also comes with their optional AutoTrac 4-wheel drive, which Olds dubs SmartTrak. This system drives the rear wheels until slip is detected, then automatically engages the front axle to maintain traction, though SmartTrak lacks locked-in 2WD and 4-low settings like AutoTrac.

This year, Bravada offers an optional "cargo management system" whose vertical dividers can be arranged in various ways to keep smaller items in place. Also, the V6 is retuned for lower emissions and quieter operation, though outputs are unchanged, and GM's cell-phone-based OnStar assistance system is finally available after being announced but delayed last year. Returning from mid-'99 is a Platinum Edition package with pewter-colored body cladding, plus memory driver's seat, power passenger seat, self-dimming door mirrors and a 5000-pound tow package that are all options for regular Bravadas. GM's Jimmy/Blazer/Bravada trio is being redesigned for release as '02 models starting in early 2001. The new versions will be slightly larger and will offer an inline-6-cylinder engine.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys include the Ford Explorer, the Lexus RX 300, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Explorer and M-Class are more traditional SUVs with full off-road capability and V6 and V8 engines. RX 300 is a car-based SUV that lacks a low range in 4WD mode, but is the most carlike to drive.

Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the slightly more expensive Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.

If you are on a Budget take a look at the old standby Jeep Cherokee. It is cruder than the rest but offers go-anywhere ability, utility, and a low price.