1998 Catera

In its sophomore year, the Catera received several upgrades.

• The entry-luxury sedan continued to be powered by the 3-liter dual overhead cam V-6 mated to the 4L30-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
• New standard features included an upgrade to the Bosch ABS/ASP 5.3 anti-lock brake and traction control system.
  • The previous system controlled engine output to keep the engine from overpowering the tires on slippery roads.
  • The enhanced system added brake control to the two rear wheels.
  • If one wheel slipped, the system applied the brake to that wheel, transferring drive torque to the wheel that had more traction.
• Other new features included three additional exterior colors: Sky, Cocoa, and Platinum, as well as the radio that now featured Theftlock as a security measure.
• Power outlets were modified to better accommodate cell phones and other accessories. and the outlets retained power with the key off.
• Also new in the event of an accident that activated front airbags the interior lights came on and the doors unlocked automatically 15 seconds after deployment.
• In addition, a new airbag warning label was applied to the passenger visor.
• Catera now offered OnStar in-vehicle communications system as optional equipment.
• Also new on the option list was a Bose entertainment system that included an in-dash, single slot CD player, radio data system (RDS), weather band, and Theftlock theft deterrent system.
• The PDS function received Digital data in the form of traffic reports or emergency broadcasts that could be monitored any time, even breaking into a CD or cassette in play.