New Olds Alero Compact Makes Debut

Fri., Feb. 12, 1999

General Motors’ oldest division is one of its most dynamic, with new models and smart updates coming online all the time.

This year, there’s an all new compact called Alero. Based on the same platform as Chevy’s Malibu and the Pontiac Grand Am, it’s a handsome ride with a rigid structure that spells excellent ride and handling characteristics.

Base engine is a 150-hp, 2.4-liter four, while a 170-hp 3.4-liter V 6 powers the uplevel GLS. Later in the year, a five-speed stick designed by Getrag will become available for the four-cylinder models.

The mid-size Intrigue picks up a new engine option this year it gets the 3.5-liter V-6 that’s scaled down from the 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 from the Cadillac lineup.

The uplevel GLS model picks up a leather-and-wood interior as standard gear.

Elsewhere in the family, the Silhouette minivan gets a new Premiere edition, the highlight of which is a video player with a screen that folds down from the ceiling. This kid-mobile is loaded with video-game inputs and separate stereo outlets and, fortunately, master controls for the works up front.

Expect the big goodbye mid-year for the Olds 88 and its sporty offspring, the LSS. Both will go to make room for a small Aurora to be dubbed Aurora VI.

What does that mean for the original? It will be dubbed Aurora VIII.

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