By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor
This is the baby of Buick; the compact Buick Skylark Gran Sport Coupe. For 1996, Buick has changed the front styling to be more conservative. It's a good thing too: the previous model was down right ugly.
The interior is well laid out with most controls easy to reach. As a coupe, the backseat is small and difficult to get into. It is best left for children. Our test car was extremely well optioned with leather and a concert sound system which included a CD player. One unique feature on the radio was automatic tone control; when exterior volume goes up, say on the freeway, the stereo automatically adjusts to compensate for the difference.
For the protection of the occupants, many safety features have been built into the Buick Skylark. Dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes and a theft deterrent system are three of many safety features. For the convenience of the driver features like power steering, tilt steering column, cruise control, rear defroster and power door locks with keyless entry have been included.
Our test car featured GM's 3.1L, V6 engine which makes this little car quick. The sport suspension on our car made the Skylark handle well, but it's still no sports car. City mileage is rated at 21 mpg; the highway mileage at 29 mpg. Our test loop achieved a reasonable, but low, 23 mpg (due in part to the sporty engine and our lead foot tendencies). The base price $15,495 with options and destination, the total vehicle price was $19,283.
It is not a bad car; nor is it a great car. It is simply mediocre and mediocre doesn't cut it today. You can spend your almost $20,000 better elsewhere. It seems strange that Buick is even in this market. Buick is known for its large, comfy cars; the compact Skylark just doesn't fit the mold. Buick needs an entry level car, but something larger would fit the image better, like the 1998 Buick Century. Besides, rumor has it that the Skylark will not be redone it and will die after this generation.