While Oldsmobile is positioned towards the luxury side of the GM divisions, the Alero is still performance oriented. Standard tires are P215/60/R15s while P225/50/R16 all-season radials surrounding 16-inch alloy wheels are available on the GL and standard on the GLS. These add to the Alero's 4-wheel independent suspension systems handling dynamics as does the cars rack-and-pinion steering. Incidentally the variable-assist option is no longer available. Speaking of items nixed from the options list, the tire inflation monitor system and passenger door keylock on cars with remote keyless entry are also gone. While power assisted the rear brakes are drums on GX and GL models while those on the front are discs. ABS is optional while the GLS gets standard anti-lock brakes and four-wheel discs.
As I mentioned previously, 2003 will be the last year you will be able to buy a new Oldsmobile. The Alero, with its good looks, long list of standard features and reasonably priced option packages already represents good value, but the recent barrage of domestic brand purchasing incentives sweeten the pot still further. While it's difficult to speculate on the little Oldsmobile's future resale value its better than average reliability and solid GM warranty should help it fair reasonably well.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP):$22,020 - $30,100
- Body Type:4-door sedan, 2-door coupe
- Layout: Front engine, FWD
- Base Engine:140 hp, 150 lb-ft torque, 2.2-L, I-4
- Opt Engine:170 hp, 195 lb-ft torque, 3.4-L, V6
- Transmission:5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear):disc/drum (opt rear discs, ABS)
- Cargo Capacity:413 L (14.6 cu ft)
- Curb Weight (min-max):1,310 kg (2,888 lb) - 1,400 kg (3,087 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy):10.1 / 6.8 L/100 Km
- Warranty (mo/km):36/60,000 comprehensive
- Direct Competitors:Chrysler Neon, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra/Tiburon, Kia Spectra, Mazda Protegé, Pontiac Sunfire, Saturn Ion, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf/Jetta
- Web Site:www.gmcanada.com
