Trim levels: 3.5 (Aurora VI) 4.0

MSRP: $30,130 $34,305

Notes: No Auroras were sold in the 2000 model year, but Oldsmobile introduced a new second-generation model as an early 2001. The new sedan was built on a revised version of the G-body chassis that its predecessor had pioneered. While the platform was shared among the premium divisions of General Motors, each car (the Buick LeSabre and Park Avenue, the Cadillac Seville and DeVille, and Pontiac's Bonneville) had its own unique style and drivetrain, a far cry from the J-car era at GM. The new Aurora was offered for the first time with a V6, taken from the Intrigue, while the 4.0L V8 developed from Cadillac's Northstar engine continued to be available. These engines were the smoothest and most modern powerplants in GM's inventory. Front-drive was retained, with traction control and a tire-pressure monitor standard. A stability control system was included with the 4.0. The new Aurora was slightly smaller than its predecessor, as Oldsmobile sought to turn the car into an international contender against the likes of Volvo's S80. The midsize sedan offered an upscale interior with automatic climate control, power front seats, OnStar service, and leather and wood trim. Quality control was far better than most of its GM contemporaries. It also featured both front and rear foglamps, a rarity in an American car. Overall, the Aurora was a superbly executed sedan, but it wasn't enough to save troubled Oldsmobile: Aurora was the division's last new car design.

Series: 2001-2003

PERFORMANCE