glare. Plus, the main visor is equipped with an extender, offering even more sun
blockage when the main visor is in the side-window position. Kudos, Olds designers.
The driver's information system, located in the middle of the sweeping dashboard,
is also quite civilized. Upon pushing a tiny button, a small door hovers open--in the
manner of a miniature garage door--revealing the 12-button, computerized digital info
system. This baby not only keeps track of oil life, fluid levels, engine temp, airbag
function, battery charge level, etc., it also notes time, date, average speed, miles
to destination, duration of trip, fuel economy, and the number of miles remaining
until the gas tank is empty.
Another nice interior touch is the hanger hook that snaps down above the rear
passenger-side door. The grab handles above the passenger doors are recessed, and can
be flipped down when needed.
The climate control system is operated by two very large knobs, with illuminated
dials for easy adjustment. The floor vents took longer to produce sufficiently warm
air than we would have liked--but then, this was Detroit in February.
To head off potential spousal bickering over interior temperature, the front-seat
passenger has been afforded with his or her own climate control system, which sets the
temperature on that side of the cabin--even if it's different from the driver's side.
The stereo system delivered some impressive sonics, although this driver is a
stickler for separate bass- and treble-control knobs: On the Aurora, one tiny spindle
operates both--requiring incessant pulling and pushing of the knob to figure out which
position controls which mode.
Above the rearview mirror is a homing transmitter that allows the consolidation of
three separate hand-held transmitters into one device--such as garage door opener,
exterior light switch, etc.
For a vehicle that offers luxo-sport performance, the Aurora is just roomy enough.
Five adults can sit comfortably in the Aurora, as long as the middle person in the
back seat is petite. Otherwise, there's sufficient hip, head and legroom for four
fully grown homo sapiens. Next Page