2004 Oldsmobile Bravada: Road Test
Archived Review
2004 Oldsmobile Bravada ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $33,920 -$35,870
- Invoice: $30,698 -$32,462
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Oldsmobile Bravada
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada help you decide if a 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.8 |
GM boasts that its inline-6 has V8 power and 6-cyl fuel economy. The engine is strong, with good passing performance, but doesn't feel as potent as power ratings might imply.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.8 |
No opportunity to measure, but test 4WD TrailBlazer averaged 16.2 mpg in roughly 60 percent highway driving. By comparison, a test 4WD V6 Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.5 |
We have not driven an AWD Bravada with the coil-spring rear suspension, but that setup in the TrailBlazer and Envoy can feel floaty at highway speeds. By contrast, the rear air suspension is firmer, but absorbent enough for good comfort.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.7 |
With air suspension, Bravada has the best road manners of GM's midsize SUVs. Handling is good considering the truck-type build. Steering adequately precise, not as vague as TrailBlazer/Envoy. Body lean prominent, but better controlled, too. Brakes have more than ample stopping power.
QUIETNESS
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.4 |
Some tire noise at highway speeds, but not as intrusive as in TrailBlazer/Envoy. Bravada does have their considerable wind noise. Engine smooth and refined.
CONTROLS
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
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 w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.4 |
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. Available power-adjustable pedals may be helpful, especially to shorter drivers.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.6 |
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 w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.8 |
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 w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 5.1 |
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 family. Rivals such as the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 330 offer much more refinement than Bravada for only a little more money. And Bravada's resale and lease-residual values are further harmed by the phaseout of Oldsmobile.
Total Score
| Bravada AWD w/load-leveling susp. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 55 | 52.3 |
Total Score: 55
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
