The 3.4-liter V6 that is standard on GLS delivers good mid-range torque. That means you've got good power for making passes on two-lane roads. This V6 is clean enough to qualify for California's stringent Low Emissions Vehicle rating thanks to a revised intake manifold, new fuel injectors and higher fuel line pressure. The engine also gets a new camshaft and cam drive, plus new pistons pins and rings, as GM continues to extract more performance from a basic engine design that is 20 years old.
The four-speed automatic transmission works well with the engine and offers smooth, positive shifts. This is the same transmission as in the Oldsmobile Silhouette minivan, but it has been recalibrated for quicker downshifting, a welcome improvement.
We haven't tried out the 2000 Alero's new manual five-speed transmission, but it is built by Getrag, a German manufacturer renowned for its excellent manual gearboxes; a new plant in Italy produces the transaxle. This setup should make the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine an attractive alternative to the more expensive V6.
All Aleros come standard with anti-lock brakes and electronic traction control. ABS allows the driver to maintain steering control of the car during emergency braking maneuvers. Traction control reduces wheelspin under hard acceleration.
Aluminum brake calipers are 20 percent lighter than cast-iron designs, which contributes to better handling and a more controlled ride (by reducing unsprung weight). The traction control system uses ABS wheel-speed sensors that detect when the front wheels are spinning; torque is then 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 other traction control systems that use both power reduction and brake application to maintain control. A switch allows the driver to turn the system off if necessary, such as if the car is stuck in a snow bank. Next Page