1996 Oldsmobile LSS

By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor

General Motors has a world class V6 in the 3800 series II. My test Oldsmobile LSS had that engine, mated to the supercharger option; giving the LSS 240 horsepower. The LSS is based on the normally sedate Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight; in LSS guise it becomes a much more sporty sedan.

While the exterior of the car is conservative, it still will be noticed at speed. Frankly, the LSS is a really good car, but by no means does the rest of the car match the world class engine. I don't know why Oldsmobile doesn't sell more of these, for everyday use the LSS is comfortable, even for five adults and generally user friendly.

The problem areas for the LSS are: suspension, steering, and interior design. The suspension can't handle the weight and the power of the car; the LSS doesn't handle like a fine sport touring sedan that it aspires to be. The steering is better than before, but is still a bit numb and slow to react. The interior design desperately needs updating to the 1990's. The ergonomics are terrible; if duplicate radio and ventilation controls weren't on the steering wheel I'd be complaining about the long reach to the dash. Another interior design flaw is, the useless pillar in the drivers' window; not only is it ugly but in the way.

The LSS is due, for replacement, at the end of the 1997 model year. The new Intrigue, has been introduced at auto shows and is very stylish, much like the Aurora, but unfortunately it will not have the supercharged V6. The powertrain alone makes the LSS worth serious consideration as a family car purchase.

Oldsmobile, like the rest of the industry, has focused a lot of attention on safety features. The LSS has driver and front passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, daytime-running-lights and traction control.

As most press fleet cars are my LSS was loaded with luxurious features. Some of those include: power locks, mirrors, and windows, leather seats, remote keyless entry, and the integrated compass in the rear-view mirror.

Other nice touches include the rear armrest with storage bin, trunk cargo net and the dual-zone climate control system.

The gas mileage figures were decent on the LSS; even with my lead foot I achieved 24 mpg. EPA ratings are 18 city, 27 highway. The LSS had only two options those being: chrome wheels and the much loved supercharged engine. The total price with those options and destination came to $28,222. I like the LSS and think it is a good car; it is truly unfortunate that the next generation, Intrigue won't have the supercharged V6.