The 3.4-liter V6 that came on our GLS is a lineal descendant of the 2.8-liter V6 introduced in 1980. It was later increased to 3.1 liters and then 3.4 liters of displacement. Along the way, it was blessed with hundreds of mechanical and system improvements. It may not be a fire-breather, but it produces more power than most of its competitors.
We also spent some time with the standard 2.4-liter engine. With its relatively flat torque curve, this engine delivers plenty of power around town and offers good acceleration for tackling freeway on-ramps. The four-speed automatic offers smooth, positive shifts and seems a good match for the engine.
The four-speed automatic is the same transmission found in the Oldsmobile Silhouette minivan, but has been recalibrated for quicker downshifting-a welcome improvement.
All Aleros come standard with anti-lock brakes and electronic traction control. Aluminum brake calipers are 20-percent lighter than cast-iron designs; decreasing this unsprung weight reduces oscillations of the wheel over bumps for better handling and a more controlled ride. The traction control system uses ABS wheel-speed sensors that detect when the front wheels are spinning; torque is reduced by upshifting the transmission, retarding ignition timing and, if necessary, cutting fuel to the injectors. Oldsmobile says this system has proven to be more effective than traction control systems that use both power reduction and brake application to maintain control. A switch allows the driver to turn the system off when needed. Next Page