Driving Impressions
reviewed by
Although the standard 3.3-liter engine would probably be sufficient
for most drivers, the optional 3.5-liter powerplant puts out an additional
53 hp--a total of 214--for those who like a little more tiger in their
tank. The extra power definitely makes the Intrepid more fun to drive--this
is a sporty sedan, after all--and provides added muscle for must-pass scenarios.
The 3.5-liter V6 is especially robust when matched with the AutoStick.
After dropping the shift lever into AutoStick, you're able to shift up
and down by flicking the shift lever to the left to upshift and to the
right to downshift.
It takes a bit of getting used to--especially since there's no clutch
pedal to synchronize with the shift lever. But once we overcame the novelty
and newness of sans-clutch shifting, we were impressed by how much more
attuned we felt to the car's power. Of course, a five-speed manual shift
on the floor would deliver even more spritely performance, but Chrylser
doesn't offer a stick shift in its LH cars.
The 3.5-liter engine ran smoothly and quietly; at 50 mph, the tachometer
held steady at a very civilized 1500 rpm, meaning the engine is doing its
job without straining.
When turning into tight corners, the Intrepid's variable-assist power
steering--working in conjunction with the fully independent Touring suspension--delivered crisp, precise handling with minimal body roll. In sudden-stop situations,
the four-wheel antilock disc brakes brought the Intrepid to a safe, controlled
halt.
One caveat, however: it's beyond us how such an otherwise tightly-engineered
car can allow so much wind noise to intrude--via the front-seat windows--upon
such a joyful driving experience.
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