Acceleration

Bravada AWD	Class Average
6	4.7

GM boasts new inline-6 has V8 power and 6-cyl fuel economy. New engine is strong, with good passing performance, but doesn't feel as potent as power ratings might imply.

Fuel Economy

Bravada AWD	Class Average
4	3.8

No opportunity to measure Bravada yet, but test 4WD TrailBlazer averaged 16.2 mpg in roughly 60 percent highway driving.

Ride Quality

Bravada AWD	Class Average
6	4

Firm and slightly stiffer riding than TrailBlazer/Envoy, but absorbent enough for good comfort. Standard air suspension stays more composed than Chevy/GMC coil-spring setup, which can feel floaty at highway speeds.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Bravada AWD	Class Average
4	3.5

Best road manners of GM's midsize SUVs. Handling good, considering truck-type build. Steering adequately precise, not vague as TrailBlazer/Envoy. Body lean better-controlled, too. Brakes suffer mushy pedal feel, but have good stopping power

Quietness

Bravada AWD	Class Average
4	4

Some tire noise at highway speeds, but not as intrusive as in TrailBlazer/Envoy. Bravada does have their considerable wind noise. New engine runs smoothly.

Controls

Bravada AWD	Class Average
7	6

Clear, handy. Switchgear has smooth, quality feel, except loose, flimsy headlamp knob. Materials decent, but don't seem as rich as those in Envoy, which is supposed to slot below Bravada in GM family.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Bravada AWD	Class Average
7	6.2

Good head and leg room, even for taller folks. Seats are fairly comfortable and supportive. Headrests and thick pillars can block driver's aft sightlines.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Bravada AWD	Class Average
6	5.1

Ample head and knee room for 6-footers. Plenty of foot clearance beneath front seats. Seat is comfortable and fairly supportive. Wide enough to squeeze in three adults.

Cargo Room

Bravada AWD	Class Average
8	7.7

Generous. The 60/40 split/fold seat easy to operate, has clever automatic folding headrests. Cabin has good array of pockets and compartments for small items.

Value within Class

Bravada AWD	Class Average
4	4.5

Bravada's decent road manners make it better-suited to typical street duty than the TrailBlazer, though we rate the Envoy as the best value in this GM trio. Rivals such as the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 300 offer much more refinement than Bravada for only a little more money. And Bravada's resale and lease-residual value is harmed by the phaseout of Oldsmobile.

Total Score

Bravada AWD	Class Average
56	49.5

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		37
Average Score		49
High Score		65