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

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		36
Average Score		47
High Score		64