2002 Oldsmobile Aurora: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Oldsmobile's flagship loses its V6 version toward the end of the 2002 model year as part of GM's phaseout of the Olds brand. Aurora shares its platform with the Pontiac Bonneville and Buick LeSabre. It offers V6 and V8 engines, both with automatic transmission. Standard are front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, automatic load-leveling suspension, tire-inflation monitor, and General Motors' OnStar assistance system. The V8 model includes traction control and Oldsmobile's antiskid Precision Control System; both are optional on the V6. New for '02 is a "navigational radio" system that stores maps on CDs and gives directions via a dashboard mounted screen or by audio instructions. Also new for 2002 are standard chrome exhaust tips. Olds says production of the V6 model stops in June 2002, with V8 production ceasing in May 2003.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has two clear benchmarks; the Acura TL and Lexus ES 300. Both succeed in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 offers a little more luxury and TL, with it's Type-S, a bit more sport.

We Recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.