2005 Chevrolet Uplander | Review | Buying Guide
The Uplander is a brand-new vehicle offered up by Chevrolet this year, one of many added to their growing arsenal. A crossover vehicle roughly aligned in the mid-size van segment, the new Uplander hopes to combine 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 into one formidable package.
One thing Chevy has already done to boost the Uplander’s appeal is to offer a diverse lineup. Able to carry seven people in comfort plus plenty of cargo, the Uplander’s lineup includes front-wheel-drive passenger models in base, LS and LT trims as well as an all-wheel-drive passenger van.
Other attractive features include a strong V6 engine, plenty of cargo-carrying flexibility and a durable frame that should be able to withstand years of use.
Under the Hood
The V6 under the new Uplander’s hood is a 3.5-liter model. It can generate 200 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 220 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. Coupled to this is GM’s proven Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled automatic overdrive transaxle.
When properly equipped, the Uplander can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Though front-wheel drive is standard, the Versatrak all-wheel-drive system is available on LT models, adding a good deal of sure-footedness. The on-demand system is an advanced approach to all-wheel drive. If one or both front wheels lose grip, the Versatrak system goes into action automatically, with no buttons to push or levers to throw.
Instead of the all-wheel drive Versatrak, customers can opt for the StabiliTrak system. It assists the vehicle in maintaining the driver’s intended path by applying a brake force at any corner of the vehicle independent of the driver’s use of the brake pedal.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Interior versatility is one of the staples of the new crossover vehicle. Both the second and third-row seats are foldable and removable. The second-row bucket seats can be folded up against the front seats for increased cargo space, and the third-row fold-flat bench seat has a 50/50 split for added passenger/cargo flexibility.
The Uplander is a perfect fit for parents with restless kids. Available XM Satellite Radio keeps the music flowing for hours, while a standard DVD player with flip-down screen and integrated controls makes longer drives more than just bearable.
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