2002 Oldsmobile Alero GLS Coupe review from North America

Nothing since I've owned it, reliable according to VIN Repair History check I had requested and GM Optimum Inspection.

I love the car. I'm a Pontiac guy and at the time the Grand Prix was too expensive for what I wanted, I'll get one when I get my next car. While the Grand Am's a nice car, the interior isn't as nicely finished as the Alero's (even though they're similar vehicles) and the Alero's styling is a bit more luxurious, almost European where the Grand Am's plastic clad. If I didn't get the Alero, I would get a Grand Am GT Coupe, but the Alero was definitely a choice I didn't regret. The performance from the 170 HP 3.4L V6 is awesome, it has no problems keeping up with traffic and torque steer is minimal. The 4-Speed Auto shifts smoothly and rapidly and handling is predictable and steering is quick and responsive albeit it's on the light side although it does firm up at higher speeds, but makes parking a breeze. The Grand Am is a bit more firm in the turns as is the steering, but the Alero is more for comfort and is also a lot quieter inside than the Grand Am, especially at 100 km/h when the cabin is virtually silent. The interior is roomy and comfortable and the rear seat is surprisingly roomy for a coupe and trunk space is excellent. The 8-Speaker Monsoon stereo is crisp and clear and the stereo with Radio Data System and Retained Accessory Power is excellent. That is something that GM or Delco is good at, stereos. The sunroof doesn't intrude on headroom like a lot of systems which impressed me and the firm brake pedal with standard ABS and Traction Control give peace of mind. I wish the leather seats were heated, at least for the driver, but I can live without it. Fuel Economy by the way is excellent, even with a V6 and a small tank. It's cheap to fill and insure, has lots of power, passenger and cargo room and offers a lot of value per dollar. I would recommend it and reliability wise, Alero's are generally good. If you want a fun midsize sedan that offers a great balance of what you crave, the Alero is the car for you. If you're worried about GM's quality, there's no need, their reliability has generally always been there, but their new products are well built and well executed. J. D Power's random surveys prove that GM's come a long way and while N-Bodies like the Alero and Grand Am aren't always GM's most reliable vehicles, an inspection and history check can determine if it was reliable like mine and was looked after. According to the J. D Power survey as well, the Alero did slightly better in long term dependability over the Grand Am which can put ease of mind to weary buyers over American vehicles.