Acceleration

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
3	3	4.2

GM quotes 10.5 sec 0-60 mph for front-drive models, 11.2 for AWD versions. However, they feel livelier than those numbers suggest though they do not match the best in class. The AWD's extra weight is felt more from a stop than during passing/merging, where power is adequate in most instances.

Fuel Economy

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
4	4	4

Test FWD CXL averaged 18.2-19.1 mpg. Test AWD CXL averaged 19.4 in mostly highway driving.

Ride Quality

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
5	5	5.5

Most bumps easily absorbed, highway ride comfortable. AWD has no noticeable effect on ride quality. Despite standard rear-load-leveling suspension, Terraza wallows over even minor bumps and crests.

Steering/Handling/Braking

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
3	4	4.4

Steering vague at highway speeds. Marked body lean in turns. Braking controlled and progressive. AWD a boon in slippery conditions.

Quietness

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
7	7	5.4

Side mirrors generate wind noise at highway speed. Engine well-muffled. Tire noise just a rumor up front, but prominent in back where kids might have a hard time hearing front passengers.

Controls

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
7	7	6.1

Gauges unobstructed. All controls legible and easily accessible. Dashboard materials and controls have an upscale flair. Dashboard trays and drawers, as well as headphone compartments set into front seatbacks, made of budget-grade plastic. Standard rear DVD player a plus for families.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
6	6	6.3

Low step-in makes climbing aboard a simple matter. Generous head and leg room. Fine outward visibility, helped by large mirrors.

Room/Comfort (rear)

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
6	6	6.7

Good 2nd- and 3rd-row head and leg room. Narrow space between 2nd-row buckets makes access to 3rd row more difficult than in some competitors. Third-row seats set too close to floor for best adult comfort; fine for kids, though.

Cargo Room

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
9	9	9.4

Second-row buckets don't fold into floor, but are light enough for easy removal. Third-row seat doesn't disappear into floor either, but folds level with a cargo-area convenience tray that stands about 4 inches above the floor. The available rear cargo organizer is handy for groceries and other items, but GM's minivans don't have as much storage space behind the 3rd-row seat as those rivals that have a well.

Value within Class

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
5	5	5.8

Available AWD and standard rear DVD entertainment are Terraza's competitive advantages. The lack of curtain side airbags, however, is a big minus for safety-conscious buyers, and the rear seating rows and cargo area aren't as convenient or as roomy as the minivans from Chrysler, Honda, or Toyota. While Buick's first minivan is a competent entry, there is no compelling reason to chose it over our Recommended and Best Buy choices.

Total Score

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
55	56	57.8

Scores for all Minivans

Low Score		45
Average Score		57
High Score		70