2002 Buick Century: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Bucket seats are newly available for 2002 on Buick's lowest-priced car. Century shares its basic platform with the Regal, which targets a younger audience. A 3.1-liter V6 is Century's sole engine. Automatic transmission, traction control, a tire-pressure monitor, and ABS are standard. Custom and up-trim Limited models are offered, both with a standard front bench seat for 6-passenger capacity. Bucket seats are part of the 5-Passenger Appearance Package. Exclusive to Limited are standard leather upholstery and a side airbag for the driver. General Motors' OnStar assistance system is standard on Limited, optional on Custom.

COMPETITION

Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both come in coupe and sedan forms, offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced.

Recommended models include the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, plain-Jane Ford Taurus, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. The restyled and larger Nissan Altima is new to the Recommended list this year. We are impressed with interior room and road manners, but disappointed by the budget-level interior materials and assembly.