And just when Oldsmobile got it right, they get cut off. Yes, that's right, before I go on with the review, a moment of silence for GM's management's sanity. Just when they dumped a ton of money into getting a car division right, one not to be mocked, one not driven solely by old people, they give Olds the boot because they forgot to advertise the good stuff. Goodbye to what could have been GM's renaissance.
At any rate, Olds' latest and probably last car is the extremely nimble Alero. I purchased mine in August of 2000, and the minute I walked into that showroom, I knew that one had to be mine. I got the GL2, the middle-of-the road model that was perfect for me. Cloth seating, cd player and tape, fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. Automatic transmission was the only available option until 2001, when the 5 speed became available. After a test drive in the sleek, euro-styled car with a few really really nice turns, I knew I wanted this car. The dealer experience was a good one, the saleswoman was knowledgeable about everything except for the minor details, and the service department handles everything well. Truthfully, the only problem I've had with my car was the heating/AC control module died randomly, but they fixed it on the spot.

The car itself has stunning good looks, handles like a sports car, and even the 4 cylinder is not only good on gas, but has quite a bit of punch. The ride is dead quiet-- they did a great job of keeping the engine's revs the only sound that enters my ears when I'm inside. The tan color I picked is surreally beautiful and unlike any other poser pansy Honda Civic everyone else on every college campus drives. The only problem with that is, they can buy parts and accessories ad nauseum for their cars, while I can barely upgrade my air filter and headlights.

The stereo deserves its own paragraph. I got the medium-grade stereo, not the most powerful, but it's full featured, including AM, FM, CD, and tape. The head unit is great, it has the analog dial I love so much to crank up (or down when the phone rings) and the built-in clock is a must. It's great for normal people, families, the elderly... but for a college student, I outgrew the wattage in about a week. I tried to replace the speakers (they distort very, very easily) once but I realized it's very, very difficult to take apart this proprietary car. Even a professional installer told me I could only choose from a few different speaker replacements, and that if I had the 2001 Alero, he wouldn't be able to replace the head unit?!

I paid $18,000 even for my car, including tax. I think it was a great deal for the money, I have 21,000 miles on it after 1.5 years and have nothing but good to say about the car's reliability. The only complaint I have (which, I really can't complain for the price range of the car) is that while the switchgear is ok, some parts such as the switch to move the front seat forward for rear seat entry, are very plastic and very frail. After a careless friend or two or three stepped on it on their way into the back seat, I've had to replace it three times already. Luckily they gave me new ones under warranty.

One regret with this car, although the coupe is svelte, my next one may have 4 doors. Nobody wants to ride in the backseat, because as one friend puts it, it feels like you're being born all over again. Also, front seats aren't the best, but then again, it's not a Saab. Even though my car gives me a lot for the money, I still have to remember it's not meant to be high-end.

All in all, if Olds were around next time I want a car, I'd definitely pick up an Alero, my next one just might have leather, chrome wheels, and a 5-speed to spice it up even more. Alero is a great alternative to those ubiquitous Civics. It has so much potential to be an attractive tuner car. In my e-pinion, Alero is synonymous for practicality with style. (For a classy touch, add Xenon headlamps for under $20, it's like hair gel for your car ;)

I also recommend alero.org as a great site for Alero enthusiasts who have done wonders with the limited aftermarket recognition of this "way-better-than-those-darn-ugly-ribbed-and-winged-pontiac" car.
Amount Paid (US$): 18,000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2000
Model and Options: GL2, Automatic, 4cylinder