Inexpensive Performance

A lot of things have changed, but a lot has stayed the same. The 2.2 EcoTec is a surprisingly powerful and zippy engine. It loves to rev, though the automatic transmission shifts very softly and tends to wander while driving. Interior changes from the 90's models are few. Flip-up console top is huge and is hard to raise with one hand. Gauges are clear and well lit. Interior noise is reduced though road noise is still ever present. Styling has improved and has more of a performance look than the older teardrop style "ford probe-ish". Suspension is tighter and cornering is improved. Car is too new to really get into any reliability issues, none so far. Stock radio is bad as usual, paper cone delcos and a strange new radio that is hooked into the onboard computer system for an unknown reason. Antenna connector non-standard. 4-Door model roomy, but 2-door version makes it very hard for passengers to get into backseat.