2002 Buick LeSabre: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The top-line version of America's best-selling full-size car gets standard instead of optional leather seats for 2002. LeSabre is offered in Custom and Limited models. Both use a 3.8-liter V6 and automatic transmission. Antilock 4-wheel-disc brakes and front side airbags are standard. Traction control and General Motors' OnStar assistance system are standard on Limited, optional on Custom. GM's Stabilitrak antiskid system is available on Limited. The optional Gran Touring Package includes firmer suspension and 16-inch wheels vs. 15s. The standard front bench seat allows 6-passenger seating; bucket seats are optional. Leather upholstery is standard on Limited, optional on Custom. Power memory front seats are also newly standard on Limited. LeSabre shares its structure with Cadillac Seville, Pontiac Bonneville, and Oldsmobile Aurora.

COMPETITION

This segment has been hard hit by the popularity of sport-utility vehicles. Just a few years back there were more than 12 cars in the segment and now there are just seven. Heading up the field as Best Buys are the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid twins. They have real room for six, exceptional road manners, and plenty of power.

Toyota's Avalon and Buick's LeSabre are two Recommended choices. Both have room for five and offer a comfortable ride (with modest handling capabilities). If you are looking for towing ability, the Ford Crown Victoria with its rear-drive layout and body-on-frame chassis is an option. Ford has updated it nicely over the years and it comes at a reasonable price.