love it

STRENGTHS:
Supercharged 240hp V6 has been a pleasant performer. I have yet to experience any drivetrain problems. I am at 37K miles on a vehicle built in April of 1999. The car takes corners pretty good(a bit of body roll and it's expected because it's a big car). I feel the interior is roomy and comfortable for one to four, and no more. Insurance rates are pretty low since I am in the most expensive age bracket. The car is pretty tough. I rear-ended a Jeep Grand Cherokee, and totaled the Jeep while causing moderate damage ($2750) to my front. I drove away and he didn't. That made me a believer in this car. It may have some cheap materials, and a few problems with the generic GM parts, but this car will take care of you, and look good at the same time. My car was a rental, but the seats and carpet don't look or feel worn at all. It is a car that has given me, an ungrateful driver, much to appreciate. Size is perfect. It's not too big like an 1981 Ford LTD, but it's not small like the BMW 3 series, it's just right (for me and the other three adults, including the BMW 318i owner).

WEAKNESSES:
There is a quirky noise when the HVAC switches from hot to cold. I think it's the vacuum door that switches the two. It keeps making a sound like someone who is puckering their lips and exhaling at the same time. Dealer said it's normal. Oh well, playing the radio drowns the sound. The body lines on my car aren't exact. They are fair. I looked at the 2001's and they showed the same problem. Put your finger under the driver's side headlamp and repeat on the passenger side headlamp. You will notice that the gap between the lamps and the fender is not equal on both sides. I would not buy this car new, it's too overpriced for the average workmanship you get. Used, this car is a wonderful deal.

SUMMARY:
This is not the best car in the world. To me, it is the best car for MPG, safety, power, and total cost. STS has lower MPG, insurance is higher, and STS has similar faults with it's generic GM parts. I would buy another Ultra. I have looked around for a better car, and I can't find the balance the Ultra has to offer. I did not initally like this car, but bought it for purely common sense reasons. Now, after 8 months, I cannot think of paying my own money for another, I am too cheap. I hope that Buick doesn't cheapen future Ultra's with the same workmanship as mine. Mine had walnut woodgrain detailing inside. 2000 and 2001's I saw in the dealer showroom did not. I have to thank my salesman as well. He took care of me when I bought the car, and continues to take care of me when I go in for service. I have only a few complaints. The rest are glowing positives.