'Trance-sport' delivers magic One of GM's most famous SUVs is rife with panache By Alberto Diamante Choosing a vehicle these days is almost impossible. The number of coupes, sport utility vehicles, sedans, jeeps and vans is nearly endless. On top of that, they each come with a constellation of accessories, options, special packages, and add-ons. If you have already decided what van or sport utility vehicle you want to purchase, reading this article will probably not benefit you, since the Trans Sport will definitely have you scratch your head. The number of standard features on this vehicle is staggering, starting from the powertrain: this vehicle comes with a 3.4 litre, V6 engine capable of 180 horsepower. Clearly one of the most impressive engines in the category. The Trans Sport comes in four models, each equipped with the same engine. By now, you've probably already heard of the piece de resistance of this vehicle: the dual sliding side doors. This feature (available on the four-door RWB, or Regular Wheelbase and EWB, or Extended Wheel Base models) comes in tandem with another (optional) feature: remote control. At first glance, this might appear like an excessively ostentatious feature that adds frivolity to an otherwise solid and ergonomically logical vehicle. In reality, it might help those who suffer from some physical disabilities or who need special assistance when riding a car. Standard safety features on all models include: driver and passenger, frontal and side air bags, 4-wheel ABS brakes, child security sliding side door locks and rear seat child shoulder safety belts with comfort guides. Optional on all models are: remote keyless entry system, alarm theft-deterrent system and electronic traction control. All cars come with a Delco Freedom II battery with run-down protection as well as front-wheel drive and engine block heater. For added durability, the exhaust system is made with aluminized stainless steel. Four-speed electronically controlled transmission with overdrive and power rack-and-pinion steering are also standard on all models. Other standard features include: air conditioning, air filtration system with pollen filter, electric rear-window defogger, automatic power door locks, and AM/FM stereo system (the cassette player is standard on the 4-door models only). The Trans Sport also comes with a plethora of nifty optionals, like the rear air conditioning, which affords greater climate control for rear passengers, who can thus control their own environment. Also, the Rear-Seat Audio gives them an equal amount of control over rear speaker volume. Also, the seating arrangements can be varied at will: you can have a two-passenger second row bench with a three-passenger third row bench; or three second row modular bucket seats (the same as driver and passenger) and two third row modular bucket seats. The latter is the top of the line configuration, but several options in between these two are also available. The available overhead console incorporates an on-board computer with digital display giving you all the necessary information for your trip, along with outside temperature display. Not only that, but storage space for sunglasses and other small items is also available. A nifty air pump (included with the automatic rear level suspension package) allows you to inflate rafts, bicycle tires and balls at will. With optional packages you can also obtain a cargo convenience net to help you store luggage better to prevent it from flying around on braking, electronic cruise control, overhead console, roof-mounted luggage carrier and tinted glass.