2002 Oldsmobile Bravada: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Oldsmobile's version of the redesigned General Motors midsize SUVs shares a new body-on-frame platform with the 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy. Each has its own styling inside and out and rides a 6-inch longer wheelbase than before, with a body longer, wider, and taller by five inches. Bravada seats five and unlike TrailBlazer and Envoy, does not offer a longer 7-passenger model. Note that GM confirms 2004 as the final model year for the Olds brand, though it has not specified when within the phaseout Bravada will be terminated. Bravada shares with its Chevy and GMC cousins a new inline 6-cyl engine with 80 hp more than the V6 it replaces. A 4-speed automatic is the only transmission. Bravada is available with 2WD and traction control, or with an all-wheel-drive system that does not include low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard. An optional DVD rear entertainment system was a midyear addition. GM's new SUVs do not have independent rear suspension, though Bravada uses rear air suspension in place of coil springs. Front side airbags are standard and include head protection for the driver.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys are the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander. Both offer competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design. They lack serious off-road 4WD systems, however.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the top-selling Ford Explorer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined GMC Envoy. If you don't venture off-road too far take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300 as well.