2003 Oldsmobile Aurora: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Oldsmobile's flagship loses its V6 version for 2003, which the company says will be Aurora's final model year. Aurora shares its platform with the Pontiac Bonneville and Buick LeSabre. A V8 engine with automatic transmission is now the only powertrain. Standard are front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and antiskid system. Also standard are automatic load-leveling suspension, tire-inflation monitor, and General Motors' OnStar assistance system. Optional is a "navigational radio" system that stores maps on CDs and gives directions via a dashboard-mounted screen or by audio instructions. Olds says production of the Aurora will cease in May 2003, and that the final 500 vehicles will wear Collector Edition trim with special wheels, paint, and badging.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has its benchmark in the Lexus ES 300. It blends comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 manages to offer a little more luxury than others in the class.

We Recommend the Acura TL, Audi A4, and new Infiniti G35. All offer comfort, speed, and nimble handling at attractive prices. The sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series is Recommended 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.