The minivan market is one of the industry's most varied, and a big part of that variety comes from the front-drive minivans from General Motors. Mechanically identical as well as visually similar, the
Pontiac Trans Sport,
Oldsmobile Silhouette and
Chevrolet Lumina look like nothing else on the road. These cars are notorious for the very pronounced rake of their noses and windshields.
Introduced in 1990, these minivans were the subjects of early criticism due to their Dustbuster look and mediocre performance. But with some restyling and a new powertrain, those sore points are things of the past, and the GM threesome has developed a strong loyalty among their owners.
The Lumina is available as the base Lumina or upscale Lumina LS, you can get the Silhouette in Series I or Series II trim levels, and the Trans Sport is available only in the uplevel SE trim, which we evaluated.
One huge point in the Trans Sport's favor is its construction. The basic structure is a welded steel cage, giving it impressive rollover protection.
The Trans Sport's bodywork is made up of composite panels - polymer materials that are dent-resistant and virtually ding-proof and will never rust. No other minivan on the market offers such a high level of protection against minor body damage and corrosion.
The base engine is a 120-hp 3.1-liter V6 mated to a 3-speed automatic transmission, a choice we do not recommend.
Far better in every way is the optional 3.8-liter V6 and 4-speed automatic. With 170 hp, it's vastly superior in every driving situation, and it delivers about the same mileage as the smaller engine. Case in point: The 3.8-liter is EPA-rated at 1 mpg less in the city but 2 mpg more on the highway.
Traction control, a big bonus on slippery surfaces, is optionally available with the 3.8-liter powerplant.
The Trans Sport has a pretty full list of safety features. In addition to the virtues of its steel cage construction, a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS), a driver's airbag, and lap and shoulder seat belts in all outboard positions are standard equipment. Even this vehicle's shape contributes to safety in a way: It sports huge taillights that rise vertically along the upper half of the hatch where they can be seen from very far away.
One option no other minivan can match is the power sliding side door. Operated by the touch of a button, it allows the driver to open and close the side door from up front. This is great, for example, when picking up the kids from school or coming out of the grocery store with an armload of parcels. Among the door's safeguards: It will stop and reverse itself if it runs into obstructions, much like an elevator door. It also includes an override switch that allows for manual operation.
There was a major restyling to the Pontiac Trans Sport in 1994, so there aren't any major changes for 1995. Some minor ones include a 4-spoke steering wheel with radio controls and a new overhead console with a temperature gauge, compass and sunglasses holder.
