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 and compare well with most rivals. The AWD's extra weight is felt more from a stop than during passing/merging.

Fuel Economy

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
4	4	4.2

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

Ride Quality

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
5	5	5.8

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

Steering/Handling/Braking

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
3	4	4.7

Terraza is more softly sprung than its GM stablemates, feels less agile. Marked body lean in turns, though no tippiness. Steering somewhat vague at highway speeds. Braking controlled and progressive. Available AWD a boon in slippery conditions.

Quietness

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
7	7	5.7

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 difficult time hearing front passengers.

Controls

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
7	7	6

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	6.7

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	6.8

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
10	10	9.9

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	6.3

A comfortable ride, available all-wheel drive, and standard DVD entertainment are Terraza's prime assets. But the rear seating rows and cargo area lack the design advances found in minivans from Chrysler, Honda, Toyota, and now even Hyundai and Kia. Buick's minivan is competent, but there is no compelling reason to choose it over our Best Buy and Recommended minivan choices.

Total Score

FWD CXL	AWD CXL	Class Average
56	57	60.3

Scores for all Minivans

Low Score		56
Average Score		60
High Score		71