LANSING, Mich. - Like the Oldsmobile Aurora, the all-new 1998 Intrigue represents another dramatic departure from traditional domestic car thinking. Providing a balance of sport and high-level refinement desired by import-minded consumers, Intrigue is an expressive and rewarding to drive, five-passenger midsize sedan.

Intrigue makes a strong brand character statement in a market segment where it matters most. The sedan combines elements of the award winning production Aurora and Antares - Autoweek's "Concept Car of the Show" last year.

Sculptured shoulder forms over the wheels and body side contours whisper Aurora while crystal clear head and taillamps and interior space efficiencies bring Antares to mind.

Balance By Design

"Our target customers tell us they are looking for refined, balanced, distinctive, and sporty vehicles," said Bill Scott, Oldsmobile chief designer.

"On the interior that means all quality materials have the same grains, texture and low gloss finish. There is a consistency of soft forms and attention to detail.

It also means intuitive functionality like the cruise control placement on the steering wheel; the slight tilt of the handle on the floor mounted shifter; and storage pockets on all the doors."

"On the outside, expressive body panels complement the uncluttered exterior while `liquid glass' head and taillamp designs add a touch of shimmering jewelry to a well proportioned vehicle."

Oldsmobile Intrigue buyers should be more than satisfied in a vehicle that offers:

Sporty/Sophisticated Design

The subtle sculpture of its body panels - widest at the wheels and tapering in at the doors, gives Intrigue a commanding stance yet understated appearance. The car's contoured surfaces appear muscular like the toned body of a lean swimmer. Driver-oriented gauges, controls and the leather-wrapped steering wheel and console shifter build a sense of confidence behind the wheel.

Upscale Features

Oldsmobile's tradition of high-level equipment is no different here. A partial list includes magnetic speed-variable assist steering; four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes; dual airbags; PASSLock anti-theft deterrent; leather seating; power locks and windows; remote trunk and fuel door release; and automatic climate controls for driver and passenger complete with an air filtration system.

In addition, Intrigue's clean design - without excess cladding, moldings and insignias - sends a message of simple elegance.

Nimble Handling And Spirited Performance

The emphasis here is on rewarding-to-drive. Intrigue features Oldsmobile's capable 3800 Series II V6, 195 horsepower engine that emphasizes acceleration, smoothness and quietness. The standard up-level suspension system delivers excellent handling characteristics.

Functionality For The Family

Intrigue designers didn't forget the family in this roomy sport sedan. There is more than enough head, shoulder and hip room and the low cowl height affords good visibility. Accommodations include: front and rear cup holders and reading lights; auxiliary electrical outlets; map pockets in every door and comfortable, supportive seats all around.

In addition to dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, door side guard beams and crumple zones, safety features include: adjustable front-seat shoulder belt anchors; child safety rear door locks; daytime running lamps and a clearly visible hazard warning flasher mounted on the instrument panel.

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