New Cars For 2002 - features, design changes and specifications of 2002 model year vehicles

Ebony, Nov, 2001

Automakers add loads of high-tech features for the coming year

FROM DVD-based navigation systems to six-disc, in-dash CD stereos, the cars coming off the assembly line for 2002 carry more high-tech features than a science-fiction movie. And carmakers are hoping that the sleek redesigns, heightened performance and added equipment will pull their cars ahead of the pack.

Chrysler, Ford and General Motors continue to make strides in car manufacturing with a number of state-of-the-art standard features, including GPS tracking systems and the OnStar safety and security network system.

Foreign and domestic car manufacturers offer various financing offers, lease programs and extended warranties that will give customers the chance to ride away in the car of their dreams.

The Chrysler Sebring continues to be a benchmark of quality with its 2002 model, which sports a 150-horsepower, 2.7-liter V-6 engine, unibody construction, an improved safety cage for protection and an AM/FM CD stereo. The 2002 Sebring is available in convertible, coupe and sedan models.

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The Lincoln LS is contemporary American luxury personified, sporting a 220-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 engine, theater-style seating, an in-dash, six-disc CD stereo, an electronic message center and windshield wipers that activate automatically when they detect moisture.

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The Cadillac CTS is a sporty new entry in the passenger-car market for the 100-year-old company. The CTS comes with a 220-horsepower, 3.2-liter V-6 engine that can take the CTS from 0 to 60 in fewer than 7 seconds.

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The Dodge Caravan continues to be a pioneer in its field with its 2002 model, complete with power up-and-down lift gate, removable power center console, three-zone temperature control and four-wheel disc brakes. The caravan also carries a lot of power with its 215-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine.

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The Ford Taurus is an outstanding family vehicle with its 3.0-liter, 155 horsepower V-6 engine, security approach headlamps, optional side air bags, and an anti-theft system. The Taurus comes in two body styles--a four-door sedan and a wagon.

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The Volkswagen Jetta continues to prove that a compact car can be both powerful and elegant. The Jetta comes equipped with a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine, eight-speaker stereo system, front-wheel drive and driver, passenger and side-impact air bags. Also new in 2002 is the new Jetta wagon model for added interior room.

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The Saturn L-Series is a mid-size car with a number of premium features. The L-Series comes with an anti-lock braking system with full-range traction control, automated daytime running lamps and child seat anchors to go with the 2.2-liter, four-cylinder engine. Additional upgrades include a six-disc CD changer and a limited edition DVD entertainment system. The L-series comes in both sedan and wagon body styles.

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The Chevrolet Impala offers large-car room in a mid-size frame, with room for six passengers and 18.6 cubic feet of trunk space. The Impala also comes with a 180-horsepower V-6 engine, driver's side-impact air bags, remote keyless entry, traction control and a tire-inflation monitoring system.

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The Chevrolet Malibu has some new features for 2002, including 15-inch alloy wheels, a 100-watt, two-channel subwoofer system, and a standard AM/FM CD stereo. The standard 3.1-liter, 170-horsepower V-6 engine makes the Malibu a family car that's also fun to drive.

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The Pontiac Grand Am continues to inject high-quality performance into the compact coupe and sedan market. The Grand Am comes complete with a 2.2-liter twin-cam engine that delivers 140 horsepower and outstanding fuel economy, getting almost 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

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The Pontiac Sunfire offers sports-car performance at the right price. The Sunfire is equipped with a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder engine, four-wheel antilock brakes, day-time running lamps and an eight-speaker, 200-watt stereo system (standard on the SE and GT coupe models only.)

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The Ford Thunderbird is back with a vengeance. With a newly redesigned body that includes influences from its classic 1954 model, Ford has re-invented the "roadster," Not just looks, the 2002 Thunderbird comes with a 3.9-liter, 252-horsepower V-8 engine.

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The Ford Escape continues to prove itself as a quality compact sport-utility vehicle after an impressive debut last year. Designed for both comfort and performance, the Escape comes with a 127-horsepower, V-6 engine, unibody design, AM/FM CD and 33 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear.

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The Buick Rendezvous comes complete with a 3.4-liter V-6 engine, fully independent rear suspension front and side air bags, and four-wheel antilock brakes. Its sleek design and roomy interior makes the Rendezvous the ultimate weekend recreation vehicle.