2002 Oldsmobile Bravada

What is it?
2002 Oldsmobile Bravada

What's special about it?
When Oldsmobile first launched the Bravada, everyone and their cousin knew it wasn't much more than a rebadged Blazer. Heck, even ex-Olds exec John Rock admitted it. But that clearly isn't the case with the redesigned 2002 Bravada.

Based upon an all-new platform, the new Bravada is 10 inches longer, five inches wider, five inches taller, and rides on a six-inch-longer wheelbase than its predecessor. It takes on styling cues from the current Olds lineup, with thin, horizontal headlamps, dual intake grilles, large wheel-well arches and a minimum of body cladding.

Unlike its former self, which relied heavily upon shared parts from its mid-sized cousins, only the windshield, front doors, roof, rear liftgate, headliner, close out panels, rear panel trim and carpet will cross vehicle lines.

The new Bravada is the first in its class to use a five-link rear suspension with electronically controlled air bladders to enhance suspension performance and provide superior load leveling.

After an absence of nearly 20 years, GM brings an inline six engine back to the marketplace. Dubbed the Vortec 4200, the new I6 displaces 4.2 liters and features dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. Rated at 250-horsepower and 250 foot-pounds of torque, the 10:1 compression engine is said to only require regular unleaded gasoline. Mated to an electronically-controlled four-speed automatic, buyers will have the option of either two-wheel drive or the SmartTrak all-wheel drive.

The new Bravada's interior also grows, with additional front and rear legroom, shoulder and hip room. Olds also turns up the coddle factor a notch with perforated leather seating, front and rear. Wood trim surrounds the dual-zone climate controls and stereo pod and dual-stage airbags help protect the driver and passenger, with help from side airbags hidden in the seats.

Why should you care?
For the first time, Oldsmobile becomes the lead dog with a new GM platform, instead of taking the leftovers and rebadging them. With an inherently smooth inline six-cylinder developing comparable horsepower and torque of a V8, Bravada owners will still be able to pull the family travel trailer while getting decent fuel economy. While Oldsmobile wouldn't comment on the new Bravada's pricing, expect it to come to market in the low to mid $30,000 range. Look for the 2002 Bravada to hit dealer showrooms in early 2001.