2001 Pontiac Aztek: Road Test
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2001 Pontiac Aztek ▼
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- MSRP: $21,445 -$26,765
- Invoice: $19,622 -$24,490
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Our road test for the 2001 Pontiac Aztek includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Pontiac Aztek from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Pontiac Aztek, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Pontiac Aztek help you decide if a 2001 Pontiac Aztek is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
Like their minivan parent, front-drive Azteks have smooth acceleration and good midrange response, though no surplus of either. We have not yet tested an AWD version.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.7 |
Test 2WD GT averaged 18.7 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.8 |
Generally absorbent and well controlled, with the minivan roots yielding better bump absorption than most midsize SUVs muster. Some side-to-side body motions on uneven pavement, though.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.7 |
Another minivanlike trait. Unstressed in most conditions, with good road grip. Fast turns generate pronounced body lean, and strong crosswinds compromise stability. Mushy-feeling brakes reduce confidence, though routine stopping power seems more than adequate.
QUIETNESS
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.7 |
Relatively low noise levels from engine, wind, road. Few true SUVs are this quiet.
CONTROLS
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.8 |
Gauges and controls are functional despite the dashboard's cartoonish appearance. Thick side roof pillars interfere with visibility over the shoulder, and driver can't easily see front body corners. A rear wiper isn't available and the hatchback glass is quickly coated in a wintertime film of salt and slush. Cabin materials are mostly budget-grade plastics.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.9 |
Comfortable seating, though taller drivers may wish for more rearward travel. Step-in is minivan-low, easing entry/exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 4.4 |
Enough knee, leg, foot space to suit 6-footers. Bench seat is more springy foam than supportive padding. Passengers must twist their feet to get in or out, and large doors are cumbersome in tight spaces.
CARGO ROOM
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.5 |
Cavernous and versatile. Doors have map pockets with twin bottle holders, rear bench easily removes in two sections, and the available sliding rear storage tray is clever and useful. Aztek carries 4x8 plywood sheets with the tailgate lowered, but the large glass liftgate is heavy and that tailgate doesn't open flat.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
As comfortable as any SUV, and packed with features designed for active types. But fit and finish won't please the discerning, list prices aren't commensurate with Aztek's slow sales, and GM has already said it will revise the controversial styling for 2002.
Total Score
| GT, 2WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 54 | 47.3 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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