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2001 OLDSMOBILE AURORA

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Alex Law

It seems unlikely now, in the face of the great Alero, Intrigue and Silhouette models that have come along in recent years, but at one time the Aurora luxury sedan was the only thing that stood between Oldsmobile and oblivion. For a few years as a concept model and then for a couple of years as a production car, Aurora showed buyers where the marque was headed and helped them forget their fathers' Oldsmobiles. Now that it's definitely on the path to being a credible alternative to vehicles from Japanese and European manufacturers, Olds had to bring out a new Aurora that continues that trend.

So we get the 2001 model year Aurora due out in about a year with a juiced-up version of its 4-litre V-8, a slick 3.5-litre DOHC V-6 designed for the Intrigue, and a shorter body to suit tight urban realities. According to brand manager John Gatt, the new car is a thematic upgrade on the previous car: "We've improved on everything that defines the Aurora's heritage -- exhilarating power and performance, precise ride and handling, and an overall presence that is incredibly distinctive." The new car does indeed have the look of the existing car, which is still an extremely striking vehicle, but the new car is quite obviously shorter and that gives it a less prepossessing appearance. Designer Dennis Burke admits replacing the first car was "an intimidating challenge." He says he tried to keep its "visual impact" which is based on "its tight, muscular form." One thing he did change was the side windows, which are now framed. The height of the cowl drops an inch, Burke says, for increased visibility while "strengthening the car's aggressive stance. But aside from the overall dramatic presence, the design team hones in on the smaller elements that truly create the driving experience."

Despite the fact that the car is considerably shorter (to give drivers "a greater sense of control"), the front and rear interior spaces have actually been increased. And by reconfiguring the trunk opening, useable storage space in the back has been improved; Olds promises two sets of golf clubs and more. Burke says, "The car is deceivingly spacious, given its sleek lines. We maximized efficiency in space, so passengers still had all the room, comfort and luxury they need."

Inside, the 2000 Aurora has been given Olds' version of the ever-popular "driver-oriented instrument panel and console." Burke says the controls are set in genuine burl walnut trim, are "easy to reach, and are smoothed out and angled to feel good to the touch." Brand manager Gatt makes the point that the second engine will give Aurora buyers the choice luxury car buyers like and assistant brand manager Cheri Bennett gives as an example the idea that not everyone is looking for V-8 power.

The big news for the second-generation Aurora would have to be the 3.5 V-6, which did such a great job of making the highly entertaining Intrigue even better when it became available last year. In the new Aurora, the 3.5-litre delivers 215 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 pound-feet of torque at 4400 rpm, with much of the torque available at low speeds thanks to the engine's long stroke design and the latest combustion technology. The 4-litre V-8 is one of the best things about the original Aurora, but Olds nevertheless felt the need to massage it for the second iteration of the car. Specifically, the DOHC engine was given a new cylinder head and ignition system for improved combustion efficiency and lower emissions, a new low- friction valvetrain for better fuel economy, and a new induction system for overall improved sound quality." Gatt talks about this meaning greater "pleasability" in the driving experience and the hard numbers -- 250 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 260 pound- feet of torque at 4400 rpm -- would suggest this is true.

Gatt and Bennett believe the two-engine Aurora will make it an ever more competitive entry against such models as the BMW 5-Series, the Lexus ES 300 and the Acura TL because it will be "similarly equipped." Gatt says, "Out target buyers demand a high level of luxury and sophistication that reflect their discriminating taste. They want world-class performance and refinement in the cars they drive. They're looking for a car that stirs their soul, not just turns their neighbours heads." In Gatt's view at least, that car would be the 2001 Aurora.

Alex Law
Alex Law
Automotive expert