As we noted, the revised 2.3-liter engine coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission is the standard powertrain for all Grand Am models. It replaces the 2.3-liter OHC engine on the SE models, which has been dropped from the GM engine inventory and won't be missed. The revised Quad 4 delivers 150 hp at 6000 rpm and 145 lb.-ft. at 4800 rpm. Gas mileage is rated at 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. For 1995, the Quad 4 features a balance shaft system designed to make the engine smoother in mid- to high-speed driving ranges. Despite this improvement, we nevertheless found the engine a little noisy for our liking. The 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission is available on all models. A 3-speed automatic is optional on SE models. Although the Quad 4 delivers peppy performance with a 5-speed manual transmission, it's not so lively with an automatic. But if you prefer an automatic, we recommend the extra low-speed punch of the more potent 3.1-liter 3100 V6. Our test model was equipped with the new power variable-effort steering, which is available only on the GT. The system is designed to provide steering effort to match driving conditions - firmer for highway cruising and softer for parking assists. To be frank, we didn't notice much difference. We thought the steering was too heavy and it varied little. For 1995, Pontiac has made improvements to the Grand Am's suspension to smooth out ride quality. Still, we found the GT's suspension harsh, although its handling responses were crisp. Unless your priority is for sporty behavior, the softer ride of the SE models would probably be preferable.
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