Longer, Lower and Roomier The old Concorde was very roomy and above average in most respects, but it suffered from spotty quality. The longer, lower, even roomier 1998 model promises to have better quality. It's a bit lighter than its predecessor, but is structurally stronger and has two new aluminum V6 engines that are both more efficient and provide better fuel economy than last year's cast iron engines.

The dramatically styled front-drive Concorde is no longer a thinly disguised Dodge Intrepid. Both cars still share major mechanical parts and retain Chrysler's "cab-forward" design, but there's no denying that they're two very different cars.

The new Concorde is nearly half a foot longer than the 1998 Intrepid, with a sleek front "bumperless" design and a Ferrari-style grille—even its own front fenders, hood, roof, quarter panels and trunk lid. The leather interior is also new, although it should look richer for such a top-dog car.

High-Tech Engineering The Concorde's aerodynamic body generates no more wind resistance than top sports cars, and its aluminum hood is the first high-volume aluminum body panel ever used on a Chrysler vehicle. We're definitely talking high-tech engineering here.

The Concorde LX costs $21,305 and has a high-revving 2.7-liter dual-overhead-camshaft 24-valve V6 that produces 200 horsepower. The $24,740 LXi has a 3.2-liter 225-horsepower single-overhead-camshaft V6. It generates more torque and also has four valves per cylinder.

Lively Acceleration Both engines are first-rate and provide lively performance. However, the Concorde is faster off the line with the 3.2, which is quieter and doesn't work as hard as the smaller V6—especially if the car is loaded with people. Both motors are hooked to a smooth 4-speed automatic transmission that finally works as well as the automatics from General Motors. Chrysler offered the best automatic in the late 1950s, so it's about time it came up with another good one.

The hood doesn't need an old-fashioned prop and the engine compartment design makes it a snap to easily replenish window washer, power steering, engine and transmission fluids.

Economical Operation The overdrive transmission helps provide sparkling estimated fuel economy figures for a big sedan: 21 mpg in the city and 30 on highways with the 2.7-liter V6 and 19 and 29 with the 3.2-liter V6. Helping the fuel economy is the fact that the 3,430-pound Concorde isn't overly heavy for a big sedan, thanks to Chrysler's weight-reduction efforts that chopped off nearly 100 pounds from last year's model.

Well Equipped The LX is well equipped, with items such as air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM cassette, remote keyless entry and power driver's seat, windows, locks and mirrors.

If given the chance, opt for the LXi—really an option package that goes with the 3.2 V6—and you get additional items such as automatic temperature control, upgraded sound system, traction control, larger 16-inch wheels with wider tires and anti-lock brakes.

Key stand-alone options for the Concorde include $600 anti-lock brakes, $175 traction control, $795 power sunroof and $200 larger 16-inch wheels.

Excellent Roadability The Concorde is so well designed that it feels like a nimble, smaller car and is easy to safely drive fast. Its power steering is quick but overly vague near the on-center steering wheel position—a curious flaw for such a well-designed car. But the revised all-independent suspension provides a smooth and well-controlled ride along with sharp handling. The brake pedal feels a bit spongy, but stopping distances are acceptable.

Limo-Style Room The Concorde easily swallows five tall adults, and those in the rear will find near limousine-like legroom. It's easy to get in and out thanks to wide, tall doors. And front seats are especially supportive and comfortable. But rear windows don't roll all the way down for convenient use at drive-ins. And there's still too much road noise for a luxury auto.

The large trunk is long, but its rather high, narrow opening doesn't lend itself to easy loading and unloading. At least the lid pops up and out of the way, and the spare tire concealed under the floor is easily reached.

New Dashboard The new dashboard has easily read gauges and puts controls within quick reach. The large climate controls are especially easy to work. Front cupholders are sturdy, but the often-used turn signal stalk looks and feels flimsy. That isn't a part that Chrysler's cost-cutters should have been allowed to touch. Conversely, other controls feel substantial and inside door handles are easily gripped.

Visibility is generally good, and powerful washers quickly clean the windshield. But even a tall driver can't see the front or rear of the rakishly designed car, so parking and backing up should be done cautiously. And watch out while opening those rear doors, because their upper ends are shaped like blades and can easily damage nearby vehicles.

Most customers of Chrysler Corp. are buying its trucks and thus not giving the Concorde the rousing reception it deserves. Their loss.