2002 Buick Park Avenue Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Like the street from which it gets its name, the 2002 Buick Park Avenue is upscale and posh, a full-size luxury sedan that's more concerned with personal comfort than highway performance. The Cadillac of Buicks, let's say. And many owners say just that.

There are minimal changes to the roomy 2002 Park Avenue. Walnut wood trim on the interior door panels is now standard, and the front center console is new this year. It folds down when there are only three people on the standard bench seat. Another new feature is steering wheel-mounted audio, cruise, and climate controls, to provide even more convenience and minimize any effort on the driver's part. Available as a base and Ultra, both trims feature the 3800 II V6 engine that hits 205-hp in the base and 240-hp in the supercharged Ultra. A 4-speed auto transmission is standard. The front-wheel drive Park Avenue comes with dual front and side airbags and ABS brakes, and traction and stability control are included with the Ultra, along with rain-sensing wipers. The Ultra is fully outfitted with a trip computer, auto-dimming mirrors, heated leather seats, and OnStar. These are available as options on the base model, which isn't too shabby with its power front seats, cruise control, remote entry, and dual-zone climate control.

Seven inches longer than the LeSabre, the 2002 Park Avenue is spacious inside, with increased rear leg and headroom since its 1997 redesign. The trunk holds up to 19 cubic feet of golf bags or groceries. Options include a sunroof, heads-up display, and a Gran Touring package that improves performance with larger wheels and brakes, and a more rigid suspension. Though there are complaints about the cheap-looking interior materials, most drivers rave about their 2002 Park Avenue. They love the classy luxury, the smooth and quiet handling, the powerful engine, and the emphasis on comfort.