Acceleration

FWD	AWD	Class Average
5	4	4.8

Like its minivan parent, the front-drive Aztek has smooth acceleration and good midrange response, though no surplus of either. AWD version adds about 260 lb, feels somewhat slower in most conditions.

Fuel Economy

FWD	AWD	Class Average
5	5	3.8

Test front-driver averaged 18.7 mpg versus 19.4 for our AWD over more highway miles. Aztek uses regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

FWD	AWD	Class Average
5	4	4.5

Generally absorbent and well-controlled. Minivan roots yield better bump absorption than in most midsize SUVs. Some side-to-side body motion on uneven pavement. Heavier AWD model not quite as comfortable.

Steering/Handling/Braking

FWD	AWD	Class Average
4	4	3.7

More minivan than typical SUV. Unstressed in routine driving. Good cornering grip, but fast turns induce pronounced body lean. Front-drive model too easily buffeted by strong crosswinds. Stopping ability more than adequate with available ABS, but 2WD test model had mushy brake-pedal feel. Have not tested Aztek sans ABS.

Quietness

FWD	AWD	Class Average
5	5	4.4

Relatively low noise levels from all sources. Few SUVs are this quiet.

Controls

FWD	AWD	Class Average
4	4	6.2

Dashboard afflicted with unnecessary bulges, coves, and odd shapes, but location and design of gauges and controls is sensible enough. Cabin materials mostly budget-grade, a big letdown.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

FWD	AWD	Class Average
7	7	6.4

Comfortable seats and positioning, though taller drivers may wish for more rearward travel. Thick roof pillars impede over-the-shoulder vision, and driver can't easily see front body corners. No rear wiper available, and the sloped hatchback glass is fast clouded by wintertime salt and slush. Minivan-low step-in eases entry/exit.

Room/Comfort (rear)

FWD	AWD	Class Average
7	7	5.6

Enough space for 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

FWD	AWD	Class Average
8	8	7.8

Cavernous and versatile. Optional console doubles as a cooler, doors have map pockets with twin bottle holders, rear bench easily removes in two sections, and the available rear storage tray is clever and useful. Aztek carries 4x8 plywood sheets with the tailgate lowered, but the gate doesn't lie completely flat and the large glass liftgate is heavy.

Value within Class

FWD	AWD	Class Average
4	4	5.1

Aztek is more comfortable than most truck-based SUVs and offers lots of nifty features for active types. But it can't venture far off-road. And it lacks the look and feel of quality, plus 2WD buyers must pay extra for the important safety tandem of ABS and front side airbags. At least continuing slow sales mean ready discounts on Aztek.

Total Score

FWD	AWD	Class Average
54	52	52.3

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		39
Average Score		52
High Score		66