New York — With a sophisticated exterior design, a brand new Vortec
4200, four-valve I6 engine, and a completely new chassis, Oldsmobile
unveiled its latest example of refined, confident performance — the
2002 Bravada.
"With the introduction of the new Bravada, we have a sport
utility vehicle with superior power and heightened levels of luxury,
comfort and driver control," said Karen Francis, general manager of
Oldsmobile. "This new SUV builds on our product portfolio and
delivers the sophisticated balance of power and comfort that is a
hallmark of the new Oldsmobile." Part of the new family of GM
midsize sport utility vehicles, the new Oldsmobile Bravada is
distinctive in both exterior and interior design. It features a new air
bladder suspension that offers superior levels of driving comfort and
distinguishes it from the competition.
With an overall length of 190 inches and width of 72 inches, the new
four-door Bravada is 10 inches longer and nearly five inches wider than
the current model.
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR
Exterior design cues are contemporary, including sculpted shoulders,
jeweled headlamps, six spoke, 17-inch aluminum wheels and color matched
lower trim, grille and door handles - features found on all new
Oldsmobile models.
Specific front and rear fenders, hood, grille and rear doors are
utilized on the new Bravada. More than 70 percent of the exterior panels
are limited to the Bravada model. On the inside, interior measurements
have increased in nearly every area including front and rear legroom,
shoulder and hip room and rear storage. With the rear seats in the down
position, the rear compartment has more than 83 cubic feet of storage
space. Front bucket seats and rear seating areas are perforated leather
and all door panels are trimmed in soft touch materials. Front seats are
available with both memory and heat functions. Distinctive wood trim is
applied to the doors, instrument panel and center console. Dual-stage
airbags help protect the driver and front passenger and side airbags,
located in the front seats, are standard equipment. A new dual-zone
automatic heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) system is standard
and includes rear seat fan controls for greater comfort. For listening
pleasure, rear seat passengers also have rear seat audio controls. For
increased safety of the center rear seat passenger, a new three-point
safety belt has been added.
VORTEC 4200 I6 ENGINE Drivers will find the 2002 Bravada much
smoother and quicker under acceleration with the new, four-valve, 4.2L
I6 Vortec engine. The all-aluminum engine provides more horsepower and
more torque than the V6 powerplant it replaces with no penalty in fuel
economy. The all-aluminum construction also contributes to overall
weight savings.
"The new, four-valve, 4.2L I6 engine provides many of the same
advantages, including smoothness and power, found in premium luxury and
performance sedans," Francis said. "Our all-wheel-drive
SmartTrak system is standard on Bravada and we’ve also added the
availability of 2wd to the 2002 model."
CHASSIS The chassis is completely new and features a redesigned
frame that delivers new levels of noise isolation to both the frame and
body with eight structural cross members. The 2002 Bravada also includes
a new five-link suspension system in the rear of the vehicle. The
five-link suspension eliminates the heavy rear leaf springs normally
used in truck chassis design. Bravada also is equipped with a new
standard rear electronically controlled air suspension system. Two air
bladders constructed of heavy rubber are utilized instead of metal coil
springs. Road inputs are constantly monitored and the air bladders
automatically inflate and deflate for improved ride and handling. The
steering system on the Bravada includes a hydraulically assisted rack
and pinion unit that allows for a tighter turning radius and more
precise steering response. A variable assist pump is designed to provide
maximum assist at low speed maneuvers, including parking, and lower
assistance at higher speeds when a firmer feel is desired. Steering
ratio is 20.4:1. A 24mm solid rear stabilizer further contributes to
improved vehicle handling. A completely new braking system is included
with the 2002 Bravada. The four-wheel disc brakes include an increased
diameter and thicker rotors. Also, all four rotors are vented for better
heat dissipation and brake life. Front calipers are dual-piston for
better caliper-to-disc contact. On 2wd models, a four-wheel anti-lock
brake system with traction control is standard. The traction control
system utilizes a powertrain management system that retards the spark
and fuel delivery to alternate cylinders to reduce torque. The system
can be turned off in deep snow or mud where some wheel slip is desired.
Fitted to the six-spoke, cast aluminum 17" x 8" wheels are
Michelin P255/60R17 Cross Terrain tires. Designed to provide the highest
levels of comfort and handling, the tires are the widest available as
standard equipment in this class of sport utility vehicles.
"The 2002 Bravada is completely redesigned from the ground up
and is an Oldsmobile in character, design, sophistication and
power," said Francis.
"The exclusive design is expressive and individual. The 4.2
liter Vortec four- valve I6 gives us a world class engine that provides
power, smoothness and fuel efficiency. The chassis delivers ride
qualities normally found only in high end luxury sedans," Francis
added. "The SUV market is asking for the best of both worlds in
term of comfort and vehicle dynamics. We feel the new 2002 Bravada
delivers all of these qualities and more."
DESIGN OF THE 2002 BRAVADA
New York …When the 2002 Bravada appears on the road there will be
no question that it is the latest extension of the new generation of
Oldsmobiles.
"The original Bravada enabled Oldsmobile to gain entry into the
sport utility market quickly and efficiently," explained Phil Zak,
Oldsmobile’s design manager. "The original vehicle has been very
successful at providing our customers more on-road refinement and
handling than the competition but we still wanted more. With the new
2002 Bravada, we’ve been able to design a vehicle from the ground up,
paying particular attention to the wants and needs of customers who
demand more luxury and driving refinement in a sport utility vehicle.
This vehicle is designed more for on-pavement driving than
off-road."
With an emphasis on exceeding the expectations of current sport
utility buyers, the new Bravada was designed to provide drivers with
car-like handling and performance, while continuing to offer maximum
cargo features and power in a stylish, distinctive package.
Dimensionally, the new vehicle is ten inches longer, five inches
wider and five inches taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase is
increased six inches from 107 inches to 113 inches. The larger
dimensions provide increased interior room for both front and rear
passengers. Cargo volume also has increased from 74 cubic feet to more
than 83 cubic feet.
On the exterior, more Oldsmobile design cues have been incorporated
into the new Bravada than in the past.
The family resemblance begins with the thin horizontal headlamps and
dual air intake apertures in the lower front fascia that greet the
driver.
On the side, the wheel flares and wheel shoulders provide a strong
orientation to the Oldsmobile specific, 17-inch six-spoke wheels - the
largest and widest of the new mid-size sport utilities from General
Motors. Side cladding is kept to a minimum and panels are body color
keeping the new Bravada in harmony with other vehicles in the Oldsmobile
line-up. Dark-tinted side glass is standard.
At the rear, crisp, clear taillights were developed to be consistent
with the Oldsmobile brand creating a brilliant, jewel-like appearance.
"When a person sees the new Bravada in the showroom, the family
resemblance to the entire Oldsmobile line-up will be readily apparent
from any angle," Zak said. "More than seventy percent of the
exterior sheetmetal on the new Bravada is specific to Oldsmobile."
Only the windshield, front doors, roof and rear liftgate are shared
with the other new mid-size sport utilities coming from General Motors
in the near future.
Comfort, convenience and luxury were high priorities throughout the
interior design of the 2002 Bravada. "Bravada continues to be very
well equipped for the owner who wants more than a spartan, truck
interior," said Zak. "And we’ve made a special effort to
ensure that everything the driver sees or touches is softer and more
luxurious."
Bravada luxury can be found in the perforated leather seating areas
for the front and rear passengers. Interior trim panels are painted with
low gloss, soft-touch paint and include soft upper door panels. The
interior control panel cluster, console top and upper door panels
include a tasteful use of wood trim.
Like the exterior, shared components are kept to a minimum inside
with only the headliner, close out panels, rear panel trim and carpet,
common among the next generation mid-size sport utility vehicles. All
other items inside the vehicle are specific to maintain strong
Oldsmobile brand character.
"Our goal is to stay consistent with the Oldsmobile brand,"
Zak explained. "If there’s a 2002 Bravada on one side of the
garage and an Aurora next to it, the driver will feel the same
orientation in the cockpit of either vehicle. Drivers shouldn’t have
to sacrifice luxury when they move from a car to a sport utility."
Zak said he is particularly pleased with the overall execution of
Oldsmobile’s brand character into the final product. "We’ve
given each of our cars a certain stance and posture that is becoming
more familiar and very appealing to non-traditional Oldsmobile
customers," he said. "It was a challenge to take the brand
character that we’ve incorporated into our cars and transform it into
a truck. However, we feel we’ve achieved our goal. The new Bravada
looks distinctively Oldsmobile and feels well-suited for any road
condition."
2002 OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA FEATURES ALL-NEW,
ADVANCED VORTEC I6 ENGINE
New York …After an absence of nearly 20 years from General Motors
North American vehicles, a new state-of-the-art inline six cylinder
engine will be standard equipment in the 2002 Bravada, the first of the
automaker’s new line of midsize sport utility vehicles.
Dubbed the Vortec 4200, the new I6 displaces 4.2 liters, features
dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Preliminary
figures indicate that the engine will provide more than 250 bhp and more
than 250 lb-ft of torque. Final figures will be released this summer.
"When we began evaluating engine possibilities for the new
mid-size sport-utilities, we determined that the inline-six
configuration was the best solution because of its inherent balance and
smooth operation," said Ron Kociba, GM Powertrain chief engineer
for the I6 engine. "The Vortec 4200 will provide Bravada customers
with excellent fuel efficiency and emissions benefits, along with equal
or better performance than a V8 in similar applications."
Additional engine features include a high compression ratio,
electronic throttle control, exhaust cam phasing and coil-on-plug
ignition. Multec II fuel injectors, an advanced Powertrain Control
Module (PCM), direct mount accessories and easy-maintenance features
also are found on the new Vortec 4200.
The cast aluminum block and aluminum cylinder head of the Vortec
engine is made using a "lost foam" process, which GM pioneered
in 1987. The lost foam technique allows more exact dimensional control
while reducing the machining efforts in oil galleries, coolant and other
internal passages.
The overhead camshafts feature roller finger followers. The valve
system uses stationary hydraulic lash adjusters, reducing friction and
eliminating the need for periodic valvetrain maintenance.
Utilizing advanced combustion technology, the engine has a 10:1
compression ratio, which helps provide excellent fuel economy. The
Vortec 4200 delivers the horsepower and combustion efficiency advantages
of a high compression engine, yet operates on regular unleaded gasoline.
The Vortec 4200 is the first GM engine in North America to feature
exhaust cam phasing, more commonly known as variable valve timing. Cam
phasing changes exhaust valve timing within a range of 25 camshaft
degrees as the engine operating conditions change.
Variable valve timing provides optimal exhaust valve timing for a
more linear torque curve. The result is improved performance, enhanced
driveability and fuel efficiency.
Another key feature of the Vortec engine is coil-on-plug ignition,
which is more typically found in car engines. Coil-on-plug provides the
highest energy spark and most precise timing available, eliminating high
voltage wires for improved durability.
Electronic throttle control is featured in premium or
high-performance car engines such as the Chevrolet Corvette LS1 V8, but
rare in truck engines. This system, which provides greater reliability
and improved throttle response, has no mechanical link between the
accelerator pedal and throttle. Signals are sent through redundant
potentiometers at the pedal that measure pedal angle and send a
corresponding signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM
directs an electric motor to open the throttle at the appropriate rate.
Cruise control and traction control functions also are integrated into
the system.
The Multec II fuel injectors deliver fuel more precisely and
consistently than previous injectors, increasing efficiency and reducing
emissions. The injectors are lighter and feature a stainless steel
director plate.
An advanced engine-mounted PCM manages all engine and transmission
functions and communicates through a digital data bus. A separate
Vehicle Control Module manages anti-lock brakes and other chassis
functions. The PCM is significantly smaller than previous PCMs and is
housed in an aluminum box mounted on the intake manifold.
The Vortec 4200 engine is designed for direct mount accessories. With
the exception of a single bracket for the power steering pump, all
engine accessories are bolted directly to the block which reduces
assembly complexity, accessory vibration, and improves overall engine
smoothness.
Easy maintenance is another key benefit of the Vortec 4200. The oil
filter is easily accessible from underneath the Bravada. The filter is
mounted pointing straight down, reducing the potential for oil spills
during removal. The 100,000-mile platinum-tipped spark plugs also are
easy to remove because they are located in the center of the cam cover.
One fastener holds the ignition-coil cassette. When the cassette is
removed, the plugs are easily accessible with conventional tools.
Combined with the combustion chamber design, coil on plug ignition
system and exhaust cam phasing, a highly efficient, fast-warm-up
catalytic converter is located near the exhaust manifold. This decreases
the time it takes for the converter to reach emission "light
off" temperature, thereby reducing emissions on start-up.
All these systems help the Vortec 4200 meet National Low Emission
Vehicle (NLEV) standards without the addition of an Air Injection
Reaction or Exhaust Gas Recirculation system.
NEW BRAVADA CHASSIS DELIVERS
SPORT SEDAN HANDLING
New York…A new frame structure, new five-link air suspension
system, hydraulic power-assist rack and pinion steering system, and
four-wheel vented disc brakes, combine to deliver levels of ride and
handling in the new Bravada beyond those normally associated with sport
utilities.
Featuring body-on-frame construction, the 2002 Bravada has a stiffer
design chassis and frame structure and on a 113-inch wheelbase.
Overall, the new four-door Bravada is 10 inches longer, five inches
wider and five inches taller in height than the previous model.
FRAME STRUCTURE
The one frame design, compared to the current eight-frame platform
configuration, reduces overall build complexity allowing for higher
standards in noise isolation and reductions in vibration on both the
chassis frame and body structure.
The new frame design also features the first use of hydroformed side
rails in an SUV at both the front and rear of the chassis.
First used in the current Corvette C5, the hydroforming process
permits lighter weight structural components that increase structural
rigidity and frame strength with less welding and fewer pieces.
The new frame system now includes eight structural cross members - up
from six - to help vehicle stiffness for improved ride, comfort and
handling. It also reduces levels of noise and vibration typically found
in many trucks.
Contributing to the reduced noise and vibration is the first use of
"hydro-mounts" for maximum engine vibration isolation from the
frame. The donut-shaped mounts are filled with hydraulic fluid and
replace the traditional, solid rubber bushings. Combined with the
inherently smooth characteristics of the new Vortec 4.2L I6, drivers can
expect world class levels of smoothness and quietness throughout the
operating range of the Bravada, from idle to freeway cruising.
SUSPENSION SYSTEM
The 2002 Bravada is the first vehicle in its class to be equipped
with a five-link suspension system. This rear suspension includes a new
Electronically Controlled Air Suspension (ECAS) system as standard
equipment.
Front suspension for the Bravada incorporates a coil-over-shock
modular design and double-A arm configuration for superior damping and
stability.
For improved performance, the front suspension system has been
designed to allow the halfshafts on four-wheel drive models to pass
around or through linkage arms or mounting braces.
The double-A arm configuration used in the front suspension includes
forged steel lower control arms for durable performance on all surfaces.
Hydraulic lower control arm bushings help prevent noise travel through
the linkages. A front tubular stabilizer bar measuring 46mm improves
steering dynamics.
The rear suspension system features a first-in-segment use of a
multi-link suspension that completely eliminates the use of heavy, stiff
leaf springs normally used on truck designs.
This five-link design includes upper and lower linkages that attach
to the frame and axle from two points on each side, while a transverse
linkage, or track-bar runs the length of the axle for improved lateral
stability. The rear suspension includes a solid 24mm stabilizer bar.
Coupled with the new rear five-link suspension, the Bravada also
includes a new electronically controlled air suspension system that
utilizes two air bladders constructed of heavy duty rubber, rather than
coil springs.
The two air bladders, measuring 280mm in height and 150mm in
diameter, are directly mounted onto the rear axle. Load inputs are
continually monitored to inflate and deflate the bladders providing
superior load leveling. The system, under rough road conditions,
maintains the designed trim height of the vehicle.
Providing the same ride characteristics often found on high-end
luxury cars, the ECAS system is continually tuned for an improved ride
and provides superior damping on all surfaces particularly broken or
spalled concrete. The air-inflated rubber bladders eliminate nearly all
noise travel from the axle into the mounting bracket and frame
contributing to overall vehicle quietness.
As a built-in safeguard and to help prevent vehicle overloading, the
ECAS will automatically shut down when the load exceeds the axle rating.
Additionally, when the vehicle is jacked up for an emergency tire
change, the system retains air.
The air compressor for the air bladder operation is located inside
the vehicle and includes rubber mount bushings that all but eliminate
noise from operation. For other inflating chores, an air coupling and
rubber hose that is long enough to reach all four tires is included.
Additional fittings to inflate balls, bicycle tires, mattresses, etc.
are included.
The Bravada is the first vehicle in its class to be equipped with a
hydraulically assisted rack and pinion steering system that provides a
tighter turning radius and more precise steering response.
The steering system also includes a variable assist feature which
incrementally adjusts the steering feel according to the driver’s
needs - from parking maneuvers to high road speeds. A variable flow pump
helps reduce static effort and tire drag in turning situations
encountered in a garage or parking structure.
With the new system, drivers will experience greater on center feel
from the steering without the harsh feedback often felt on broken or
rough concrete surfaces.
Additionally, the 20.4:1 steering ratio has been optimized for
evasive and quick lane change maneuvers.
BRAKES & TIRES
With its larger size, the new Bravada features a completely new
braking system that includes increased diameter and thicker rotors.
Front rotors measure 12" x 1.14" and rear rotors 12.8" x
0.78". To ensure better heat dissipation and brake life up to
50,000 miles, all four rotors are vented. Front brakes include dual
piston calipers for better caliper-to-disc contact and surer stops.
A four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard and helps
contribute to better balance utilization of the rear brakes. On 2wd
models, electronic traction control, which provides more controlled
acceleration on a variety of slippery surface conditions, is included
with the ABS as standard equipment. The system has an on/off switch for
heavy snow and mud where some wheel slip is desired.
The new Bravada includes standard 17" x 8" aluminum wheels
fitted with all-wheel-drive Michelin P255/60R17 Cross-Terrain tires. The
new tires are among the widest in class and provide the highest level of
comfort and handling in a sport utility vehicle. The distinctive wheels
are available in both a painted and polished aluminum finish and feature
an exclusive six spoke Oldsmobile design. A full sized spare with a cast
aluminum wheel is standard equipment.
The result of the new chassis is refined levels of comfort, safety
and performance. The new Bravada delivers optimum structural feel, new
levels of ride quality and steering responsiveness and superior braking.
When combined, the chassis delivers a ride more often associated with a
sport sedan rather than a sport utility.
2002 OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA - SPECIFICATIONS
POWERTRAIN
Engine: Vortec 4200 I6 (4.2-liter) ñ All-aluminum construction, 4
valves per cylinder, dual overhead cams
Displacement: 256 cu.in.
Transmission: 4L60-E Hydra-matic _automatic transmission
Horsepower: more than 250 bhp (estimated)
Torque: more than 250 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm _(estimated)
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase (in./mm): 113/2870
Overall length (in./mm): 190/4834
Overall width (in./mm): 72/1829
Height @ curb (in./mm): 70/1782
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Head room (in./mm): 40.6/1031
Front shoulder room (in./mm): 57.6/1464
Rear shoulder room (in./mm): 58.4/1483
Cargo Volume: 83.3 cu. ft.
STEERING
Type: Rack and pinion (hydraulically assisted)
Ratio: 20.4:1
Turning Radius: 37.1 ft (curb-to-curb)
SUSPENSION
Front: Double A-Arm
Rear: 5-Link solid axle, with electronically controlled air
suspension
BRAKES
Type: Four wheel vented disc with ABS
Rotor size:
Front (in/.mm): 12 x 1.14 / 305 x 29
Rear (in./mm): 12.8 x 0.78 / 325 x 20
TIRES & WHEELS
Tire: Michelin P255/60R17 Cross Terrain
Wheel: 17" x 8", cast aluminum
