Also, the Sunfire's suspension tuning has been revised and now includes re-valved shock absorbers and new sway bars. Larger rear brake drums should allow shorter stopping distances - ABS is optional on both SL and SLX models. Still any comment on improvements to the upgraded suspension and braking, both of which have never been particularly good, will have to wait until a future road test report.
For the time being I can make mention of its features. The base SL comes with few luxury items at all, counting an electric remote trunk release, 4-speaker AM/FM stereo and cloth seats highest on the list, the obvious reason its price starts at a paltry $15,485. A $3,300 package including the 4-speed automatic transmission (normally an $1,180 stand alone option), air-conditioning and an AM/FM/CD audio system is available in selected areas (ask a local dealer), as is a $1,545 package that omits the A/C but offers the auto tranny and premium sound, or the air-conditioning Value Option Package that adds A/C, floor mats and tilt steering to the SL for $2,120 (also specific to locality).
For power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power mirrors and carpeted floor mats you'll need to check SLX on the order form, and up the ante to $18,655. Items standard with the SLX and also optional on the SL include air-conditioning, tilt steering, and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with speed-compensated volume control, Radio Data System (RDS) and TheftLock. The SLX's options list is longer and includes an attractive rear decklid spoiler, P205/55R16 tires only available with alloys, variable delay intermittent wipers, side-impact airbags, OnStar communication and a touring package that adds a leather wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and parking brake handle, deluxe front bucket seats with driver adjustable lumbar support, deluxe headliner with dual reading lamps and overhead storage. Anti-lock brakes, cruise control and P195/65R15 all-season tires on 15-inch steel or alloy rims are also available on the SL. Fully loaded the Sunfire SLX tips the scales at $24,610.