A torque-rich 3.9-litre, 240-hp V6 that was optional last year now replaces the old 3.5-litre, 201-hp unit as Uplander's standard engine. This should help the GM van close the gap on various 240ish-hp rivals, though the transmission is still only a 4-speed. Other aspects of the Uplander's dynamics are already quite competitive, though the Versatrak all-wheel drive model is gone. Go figure. Uplander's Achilles Heel is the inability of the third-row seat to "disappear" into the floor, though it and the second-row seats can be removed. Unlike most modern minivans, Uplander is still available in more-affordable short-wheelbase versions. A segment exclusive is a 40-Gb Phatnoise multi-function hard-drive that installs in the available modular overhead rail system.

Affordable, and now has competitive horsepower

Silly SUV-wannabe styling, no hideaway seats, no AWD