Interior
reviewed by
Anyone who has ever spent time in a Buick (or, for that matter, any
other conventional American sedan) will feel right at home in the Century.
Full-width seats front and rear hold six full-size adults on soft cushions
covered in smooth, attractive cloth. All six will find head and legroom
to be more than adequate, as well as easy access through four large, well-shaped
doors.
Fancy trim is kept to a minimum, with only small wood-effect panels
in the doors--holding power-window switches--contrasting with the interior's
monochromatic appearance.
The single-color interior scheme is perhaps the cabin's only somewhat
controversial feature. Having steering wheels, dashboard, door panels,
seats and carpet finished off in what is as close as possible to the exact
same hue does not sit as well with some people as use of some contrasting
shades might. But that, obviously is a matter of individual tastes.
All control buttons and switches are large, well-marked and properly
sited for easy use. Instruments are clear, too, though there are only three.
Buick assumes the Century's intended customers are unlikely to care for
much more information than speed, fuel level and engine water temperature
anyway, and if they really need to know about a problem in one of the car's
systems, there are warning lights and chimes to do the job.
Because the cars are well equipped, only a few options are offered to
Century customers. A power glass sunroof is one; another is a rear-mounted
child safety seat. Beyond those items, steering wheel-mounted radio controls
and a few minor upgrades, Buick seems content to let the standard list
of features keep buyers happy. As they likely will.
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