It takes a bit of getting used to--especially since there's no clutch
pedal to synchronize with the shift lever. But once we overcame the novelty
and newness of sans-clutch shifting, we were impressed by how much more
attuned we felt to the car's power. Of course, a five-speed manual shift
on the floor would deliver even more spritely performance, but Chrylser
doesn't offer a stick shift in its LH cars.
The 3.5-liter engine ran smoothly and quietly; at 50 mph, the tachometer
held steady at a very civilized 1500 rpm, meaning the engine is doing its
job without straining.
When turning into tight corners, the Intrepid's variable-assist power
steering--working in conjunction with the fully independent Touring suspension--delivered crisp, precise handling with minimal body roll. In sudden-stop situations,
the four-wheel antilock disc brakes brought the Intrepid to a safe, controlled
halt.
One caveat, however: it's beyond us how such an otherwise tightly-engineered
car can allow so much wind noise to intrude--via the front-seat windows--upon
such a joyful driving experience. Next Page