2002 Chevrolet Prizm: Road Test
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2002 Chevrolet Prizm ▼
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- MSRP: $14,330 -$16,395
- Invoice: $13,642 -$15,116
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Our road test for the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm help you decide if a 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Manual-transmission models feel frisky; acceleration is less satisfying with automatic, which saps lots of engine power and hunts between gears.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 6.7 |
Test Prizms averaged around 25 mpg with automatic transmission, around 28 with manual.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Prizm's ride is nicely controlled, and while small bumps are felt, the suspension isn't harsh.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.9 |
Steering is direct and sharp, better with LSi's larger tires. Stopping power is good, but brake pedal feels rather mushy, especially with optional ABS.
QUIETNESS
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Road noise is noticed, but no more so than in most rivals; engine ruckus is on low side for a subcompact.
CONTROLS
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
A radio mounted too low detracts from otherwise good dashboard design. Hard plastic dominates cabin, but Prizms we drove were free of squeaks and rattles.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Front-seaters get supportive buckets and plenty of space. Large door mirrors contribute to excellent outward vision.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 3.2 |
Head room is adequate, but the already-tight leg and toe room shrink drastically with the front seats moved more than halfway back.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 3.3 |
Trunk space is average for class; opening is large and access is bumper-height. The LSi's split folding rear seatbacks thoughtfully incorporate a center pass through.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
Performance is conservative and rear-seat space is tight, even for a subcompact. But fuel economy is good, and overall, the solid and reliable Prizm makes fine use of its Toyota genes. Corolla always outsold Prizm, and now more than ever, Chevy dealers are likely to be discounting their lame-duck small sedan.
Total Score
| Base, man. | LSi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 43 | 43 | 44.2 |
Total Score: 43
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