Not sure if this is the right forum for this but here goes.
I decided to take one for a drive and really give it a thourough critique.
LIKES:
*Rear doors swing 180 degrees revealing a massive opening which was great.
*40/60 side cargo doors available on both sides.
*All wheel drive option is excellent especially since vans are traditionally lousy in the winter.
*Engine selection offers more than adequate power.
*Smooth ride with interior noise kept to a minimum.
DISLIKES:
*The front seats are too close to the doors. With the increased cubic footage in these vans I was amazed at how crammed I felt by the doors. The passenger side was worse and if you are 6'3" or taller riding shotgun is terrible. The side pillars on both sides were right against my shoulder. The space between the two front seats is enormous, all GM would have to do is move each seat 1" towards the center and it would make a world of difference.
*Side doors on both sides are great but only open 90 degrees and you cannot disconnect them swing fully open.
*The looks, before this new front end I didn't mind the appearance but this new "snouty" looking front end is just too much for me to overlook. But appearance is subjective.
Summary:
These vans are made on a very solid box frame and the power plants are impressive. The ride is very smooth and the cubic footage is fantastic. If you are under 6'3" and 225 lbs then you may feel comfortable in this van. If you are bigger than that then you will most likely be disappointed, especially on the passenger side.
The appearance on these vans is an acquired taste but they can be sweet. Check the links below for two cool versions of the new GM vans at the SEMA show. Personally, I am anxious to see the 2004 Ford van, and eventually the next full size van offered by Dodge.
Keep on Vannin! Greg
http://www.velocityjrnl.com/jrnl/2002/vmd9172ov.html http://www.velocityjrnl.com/jrnl/2002/vmd9169ov.html