Achieva is Oldsmobile's front-wheel-drive, five-passenger, entry- level offering. For 1995, Achieva is available in a two-door or four-door S versions. Two different equipment packages are available on each model: Series I or the more comprehensive Series II. Introduced in 1992 as a 1993 model, the compact Achieva chalked up 51,063 unit sales in its first year. The 1994 calendar year saw 57,735 units sold and so far in 1995, 20,687 Achievas were purchased through May. Achieva is part of General Motors' long-term marketing strategy for its Oldsmobile division, which de-emphasizes large, six-passenger vehicles and focuses on well-equipped, five-passenger sedans. Oldsmobile is aiming at import buyers who for years were disenchanted with American-made luxury vehicles. Oldsmobile celebrates its 100-year anniversary in 1997. Retail price for a two-door, Series I coupe starts at $13,500. Our test model, a bright red, two-door Series II coupe with upgraded aluminum wheels and handy remote locking package listed for $16,211, including a $495 destination charge. Series I standard equipment includes air conditioning, anti-lock brakes; which greatly improve maneuverability in a panic-braking situation; driver-side air bag, maintenance-free battery, power door locks, power steering, tilt steering wheel and remote trunk and fuel doors. Series II equipment includes items in Series I and adds a new dashboard gauge cluster, upgraded cassette stereo, improved cruise control, four-speed automatic transmission and power windows. Inside, Achieva's wraparound interior provides drivers with a cockpit-like feel. All controls are within easy reach. The dashboard gauge cluster, found in Series II Achievas, features four large, circular windows with speedometer, tachometer, voltage, engine temperature, gasoline level and oil pressure information. Dials control temperature setting and fan speed. The air conditioner cools the interior off efficiently even during hot, muggy summer days. Achieva has plenty of nooks and crannies to store items for travel. Between the front bucket seats is a large, deep storage bin. Another long, deep pocket is located in front of the floor-mounted transmission. An overhead ceiling holder, between the two map lights is ideal for storing garage door openers or sunglasses. A square-shaped box behind the automatic transmission has a built-in change holder. A removable pre-shaped flexible plastic cup holder also fits into this square pocket. Headlights and cruise control are operated from the left-hand turn signal stalk. Multi-speed windshield wipers operate from a right-hand side stalk. Trunk and fuel-door release levers are located on the floor next to the driver's seat. Automatic door locks and power window controls are found on the door. Front-seat passengers have good head and leg room. Our cloth seats were comfortable and supportive. Back-seat riders will find headroom tight. When the front bucket seats are positioned all the way back, leg room for backseat travelers is at a premium. Our test model included the standard 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, dual-camshaft, 150 horsepower, quad-four engine; which has better fuel economy than previous offerings according to Oldsmobile. The quad-four engine has decent pickup and is quieter than last year's standard engine. Achieva also offers an optional 3.1-liter V-6 engine. Oldsmobile's simplified buying process eliminates dickering between customers and salespeople. The price listed on the window sticker is non-negotiable. Oldsmobile estimates gas mileage at 21 mpg city, and 31 mpg highway. Our test drive car, with 5,600 odometer miles, registered 27 mpg combined city and highway driving. The fuel tank holds 15.2 gallons of regular, unleaded fuel. General Motors assembles Achieva in Lansing, Mich. |