2007 Chevrolet Uplander Review discusses a promising vehicle from GM.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

2007 Chevrolet Uplander Review

The Uplander is a minivan, or rather, a "crossover sport van" that debuted for 2005. It replaced the Astro and the Venture. It's based on the same platform as the Saturn Relay, Buick Terraza, and Pontiac Montana SV6.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Uplander delivers a minivan-that doesn't totally look like a minivan-at a decent price. However, in terms of safety, space, and features, it's far behind the leading competition. While it's cheaper than most of its competitors, you'd probably be better off spending the extra money.

What's New For 2007:

All-wheel drive has been dropped. The 3.5-L V6 has been replaced by a flex-fuel 3.9-L V6. Stability control is now standard on most models.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems include failing EGR valves, failing OnStar units, defective chips, engine misfires and noise, inaccurate fuel gauges, and stiff horns. It's been recalled four times so far for weak seat latches, stuck emergency brakes, and misprinted or missing labels. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Uplander earned 5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4.5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Good" for frontal impacts, "Acceptable" in side impacts, and "Poor" for rear impacts. Anti-lock brakes come standard. Stability control comes standard on all but the base LS. Side airbags are standard on the LT, but optional on the LS. The 2LT and 3LT have second-row side airbag protection. However, the third row is not covered.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Sleek design
+ Good price
+ E85 compatible engine

Cons
- Poor reliability
- Limited interior space
- AWD no longer available

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Hyundai Entourage costs about $4,000 more, but offers a longer warranty and much more interior space. The Nissan Quest also costs $4,000 more and doesn't have as much payload capacity, but has more passenger room. The Ford Freestar has about 40 less hp, but has much more interior space.

What Others Are Saying:

"With the driver's seat comfortably set for my 6' 1" frame, my oldest teenage daughter was unable to sit behind me, forcing us to re-arrange her seating position to the middle seat behind my wife. In my opinion, this is a significant oversight on the part of Chevrolet and one I hope they fix when the next new design arrives later in the decade." - Road and Travel

"General Motors appears to be shaking itself awake from its decade-and-a-half long slumber and starting to come out with the kind of automobiles those of us who don't earn our living in the oil patch or on a cattle ranch might consider buying." - About.com

"In terms of design, refinement and packaging, competitive minivans (yes, minivans) from Honda, Toyota and Chrysler are literally decades ahead of the Uplander. And proud of it." - The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2007 Chevrolet Uplander at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Thursday, September 27, 2007 - Email to a friend

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