Pontiac touts the part minivan, part SUV Aztek as the first SRV (sport recreation vehicle). With bold, love-it-or-hate-it styling, the Aztek is aimed at 20- and 30-something professionals who venture outdoors on the weekends. Aztek shares basic components with the Montana minivan, although exclusive to the Aztek is an all-new Versatrak all-wheel-drive system. Front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions are offered, with the only engine offered being a 185-hp 3.4-liter V-6. An automatic leveling system is optional for those who might regularly carry heavy loads or tow. The uplevel Aztek GT adds dual-zone climate control, traction control, an overhead console, and upgraded seats. All models have standard side-impact airbags. Aztek also has a unique cargo tray to manage gear in the back, and an optional tent system is offered for car campers.
Bonneville
Following a complete redesign for the 2000 model year, Pontiac's flagship mid -size sedan continues into 2001 with only minimal changes. GM's next-generation OnStar navigation and communication system and side-impact airbags are now standard, and heated seats are now an option on all models. Bonneville SE and SLE feature a 3.8-liter pushrod V-6 that makes 205 hp, while the performance SSEi model comes with a supercharged version of the engine that makes 240 hp. The SSEi also adds a lower axle ratio, heavy-duty transmission, and power seats. Bonnevilles are good highway cars, with a smooth ride and ample space for adults in the rear seat.
2001 Pontiac Firebird |
Firebird
Pontiac's traditional American muscle car continues for another year, although it may face the end of the road next year. With rear-wheel drive, available beefy V-8 engines, a cramped interior, and a stiff ride geared for handling rather than comfort, Firebird models are definitely not to everyone's liking, but good choices for those who want a relatively inexpensive, high-power sports coupe. Standard coupe and convertible models come with a 3.8-liter V-8 making 200 hp, matched to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. A 5.7-liter V-8 engine that makes 310 hp this year is standard on the Trans Am and optional on the Formula. Trans Ams have as optional a WS6 Ram Air package that adds air scoops, dual exhaust, a power-steering cooler, and a maximum performance suspension. We recommend the V-8 and six-speed manual for the best muscle-car experience.
Grand Am
Oriented toward younger buyers, the Grand Am compact sedan and coupe models boast unique styling that relies on trim and body cladding. Standard SE models have a 150-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, while a 170-hp, 3.4-liter V-6 is optional. Upscale GT and GT1 models get a higher-output, 175-hp version of the V-6, along with a performance-tuned suspension, bigger wheels and tires, and traction control. Grand Am is Pontiac's best-selling vehicle, although refinement is below that of much of the competition. Grand Prix
The Grand Prix is Pontiac's mainstream, mid-size sedan, known by now through an aggressive ad campaign as the car with the WideTrack design. Grand Prix shares its basic design with the Buick Regal. The base SE model has a new front-end treatment for 2001, and a "smart package" that features a rear spoiler and painted wheels is available on the SE. The GT and GTP models have a Special Edition model that adds a rear spoiler and hood vents. OnStar is now standard on the top-line GTP model and optional on the midlevel GT. Standard SE models are powered by a 175-hp 3.1-liter V-6 engine, while a 200-hp, 3.8-liter V-6 is optional on the SE and standard on the GT. GTP offers a 240-hp supercharged version of the 3.8.
Montana
The recreation-oriented Montana minivan shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Venture and Oldsmobile Silhouette minivans. Two seating configurations are available, either with four captain's chairs and a third-row bench, or modular buckets in the second and third row. The MontanaVision entertainment model now features a larger viewing screen and improved headphone jacks. The van gets a new front grille and fascia for 2001 and an optional rear parking aid system. All Montanas have a 3.4-liter V-6 engine that makes 185 hp.
Sunfire
Pontiac's sporty, economy-minded Sunfire shares its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Cavalier, although the Sunfire sports a more curvaceous body and a bolder appearance than its Chevrolet counterpart. Standard SE coupes and sedans have a 115-hp, 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, while GT coupes have a 150-hp, 2.4-liter DOHC four. All models have a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with a three- or four-speed automatic optional on SE models. Sunfire's design is dated, and it shows with a cramped interior and noncompetitive levels of noise and vibration.
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