GM Canada Announces Prices on New 2005 Vans

There are few market segments as price conscious as the minivan class, and GM was well aware of this when pricing out its new

The new Chevrolet Uplander, the General's entry-level minivan, will sell for a suggested retail price of $25,405. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

lineup. For 2005, the new Chevrolet Uplander, the General's entry-level minivan will sell for a base manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) of $25,405 in Canada-only regular wheelbase trim. The extended-wheelbase Uplander the U.S. will get will start at $28,020. Next on the desirability list is Pontiac's Montana SV6, again starting out with a Canadian-only regular wheelbase model at $26,620. The extended wheelbase version will start at $28,945. What about the new Saturn and Buick vans? Both will only be available as extended wheelbase models at $27,995 for the Relay and $33,745 for the Terraza.

"Midsize vans are important to Canadians as they represent the value and utility we require in our vehicles," commented Peter Bannon, Director of Vehicle Marketing for GM Canada. "With the launch of these new vans, GM has recognized Canadian needs by offering regular wheelbase versions, that are unique to Canada, and we've added more standard equipment with more aggressive prices than previous models."

All of GM's vans will incorporate a long list of standard equipment, including a 200 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, seven occupancy,

All of General Motors' new vans, no matter which badge is on the front, will come well equipped with standard features. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

an overhead rail storage system, CD/MP3 player, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, remote keyless entry, dual-stage frontal airbags, and the automaker's OnStar security and safety system with a 1-year subscription to the Safe and Sound plan.

Available options include a remote vehicle starter, not particularly good for the environment but nevertheless appreciated in colder climates, StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system (front-wheel drive models only), a DVD entertainment system, seat-mounted side impact airbags, a 110-volt rear outlet, and more. Also, all models will be available in front- or all-wheel-drive, the latter only available on extended wheelbase models.