2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Oldsmobile's version of the redesigned General Motors midsize sport-utility vehicles shared a new body-on-frame platform with the 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy. Each had its own styling, inside and out, and rode a wheelbase 6 inches longer than before. Bodies were longer, wider, and taller by 5 inches. All shared a new inline six-cylinder engine, which developed 80 horsepower more than their previous V6. A four-speed automatic was the sole transmission. For the first time, Bravada was available with two-wheel drive, which included traction control. The four-wheel-drive version used Oldsmobile's SmartTrac all-wheel-drive system, which did not include low-range gearing. Antilock four-wheel disc brakes and 17-inch alloy wheels were standard. GM's new SUV design lacked an independent rear suspension, though Bravadas could have an air-spring rear suspension in place of coil springs. Standard front side airbags included head protection for the driver. Seating for five was standard. Unlike TrailBlazer and Envoy, Bravada did not offer an extended seven-passenger model. Bravada was slated to go out of production during 2004, before a full life cycle, as part of the phaseout of the Oldsmobile brand. Rivals included the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.