However, a few quibbles:
As we indicated earlier, sport-utes need to be versatile--which means some compromises have to be made in order for a sport-ute to function on every surface from smooth, well-traveled highways to rugged, uncharted terrain. And although the majority of buyers will only be rolling down the highway in the SLX, no one really expects the cushiony ride comfort of a Cadillac or the cornering agility of a 300ZX.
Like most sport-utilities today, especially those in the luxury category, the SLX and Trooper favor ride over handling. Although an abrupt 90-degree turn at 25 mph was fairly routine, the body roll was significant. And when negotiating a tight hairpin--especially on the slightly wet surface we encountered--the combination of height and comparitively narrow track led to a feeling of not being firmly planted. However, that's an element of sport-utility driving that takes some getting used to. Underneath all the finery, they are, after all, trucks.
More appealing is the SLX's sturdy 4-speed automatic transmission, which comes equipped with "power mode" and "winter mode" functions, both of which can be engaged with the push of a button. The power mode makes upshifts higher in the rev band, allowing for more rapid acceleration. The winter mode starts the vehicle in third gear to maximize traction and control on snowy or icy surfaces. The standard limited-slip differential helps in this respect, too.
Braking performance, augmented by standard ABS and discs at all four corners, was good, particularly in view of this vehicle's mass. Next Page