A penumatic automatic load-leveling system is offered as a $100 option. A pump adds
air pressure to the rear shock absorbers according to load information furnished by an
integrated sensor. A nifty feature of this system is that it can also be used to
inflate tires or vacation gear like inner tubes and air mattresses.
Another feature exclusive to the GM vans is plastic body panels on vertical exterior
surfaces, similar to the panels used on Saturn cars. The plus is extra resistance to
parking lot dents and scratches. If this is a feature that appeals to you, 1996 is
your last chance to get it. The '97 vans will have conventional sheet steel bodies.
Exterior and interior styling of the current vans follows divisional positioning. The
Trans Sport has the sportiest appearance, the Chevy is more basic and the Silhouette
the most luxurious.
Clearing the decks for the arrival of the next generation, Pontiac has pared the 1996 Trans Sport model range to just one, the Trans Sport SE. The base price is $19,394, which includes basic comfort/convenience features like air conditioning and an AM/FM radio.
Our test van had the power sliding side door option ($350), a very convenient addition we hope other minivans will adopt. It's been popular for Pontiac; some 85% of the Trans Sports sold last year were equipped with the power door feature. Next Page