2006 Chevrolet Uplander in Southfield, MI - $2,490

Chevrolet adds a new dimension to the mid-van segment with the introduction of the 2005 Uplander, a crossover sport van (CSV) for those who want it all: the bold styling of an SUV, the passenger room and interior versatility of a van and the smooth ride and fuel efficiency of a sedan.

Built at the automaker's assembly plant in Doraville, Ga., the Uplander is available in base, LS and LT trim and front-wheel drive or Versatrak all-wheel drive configurations. The Uplander is powered by a 3.5L V-6 joined to an electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmission.

On the road, the Uplander is nimble and responsive -- smooth and powerful at speed. A robust unibody design, featuring a ladder-frame underbody construction, serves as a foundation for the suspension hardware. The four-wheel independent suspension features MacPherson struts, coil springs, L-shaped stamped lower control arms and aluminum knuckles in front; double-wishbone cast aluminum short- and long-arm control arms and cast aluminum cradle at the rear.

Inside the cabin, a low step in height facilitates entry and exit. A new upscale interior is classy and refined, with the audio controls now located in the steering wheel. Seven-passenger seating is standard, with individual captain's chairs in both the first and second rows. The second and third-row seats are both foldable and removable for additional cargo room, while the third-row seat has a 50/50 split.

Other notable features include a front overhead console and standard overhead rail system, with snap-in accessory and storage modules for a less cluttered interior. The overhead lighting system is neatly integrated and is designed to accommodate the standard rear climate and audio controls or the rear-seat entertainment DVD system/ into a single unit.

The rear cargo area features an innovative compartment system that contains four storage compartments appropriately sized to hold items such as milk and orange juice containers, 12-packs of soda and grocery bags. The forward edge of the dividers is cut out to create a long, left-to-right compartment, capable of storing longer objects.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 121.1; overall length: 204.0; width: 85.7; height: 72.0 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3500 3.5L V-6 (LX9) -- 200 hp at 5,200 rpm and 220 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically-controlled four-speed automatic w/overdrive.

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/24 hwy., using regular unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 136.5 cu. ft.

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, automatic power locking doors, daytime running lights, OnStar communications system, automatic headlamp control, batter saver and PassKey III theft deterrent system. LS adds remote keyless entry system and front seat mounted side-impact airbags. LT AWD adds tire inflator kit.

Optional safety features include remote control engine start.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Chevrolet Uplander CSV starts from $23,635 for the base model up to $31,385 for the LT AWD. Destination charges add $715.

As tested

2005 Chevrolet Uplander LT CSV

Exterior color: Summit White

Interior color: Cashmere

Tire make/model: Continental TouringContact AS

Tire size: P225/60R17

Base price $28,670

Destination charge $ 715

Premium seating package $ 1,350

Convenience package $ 545

Sport suspension package $ 455

Remote vehicle start $ 175

Trailering provision package $ 175

Security package $ 170

Total as tested $32,255

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