2005 Pontiac Sunfire: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A sport package is added to the options list before Pontiac's smallest car ceases production in June 2005. Sunfire comes as a 2-dr coupe sharing an underskin design with Chevrolet's Cavalier sedans. Cavalier is replaced in model year '05 by Chevy's new Cobalt coupes and sedans, but Pontiac says Sunfires won't be replaced with retrimmed Cobalts. Sunfires use a 140-hp 4-cyl engine. A special-value model called 1SV comes with manual transmission and CD player, and cannot be ordered with any options. The costlier base coupe is available with option packages labeled 1SB and 1SC. They include automatic transmission, but allow manual transmission as a credit option. The 1SC package includes ABS and traction control, which are optional with 1SB. It also includes alloy instead of steel wheels, plus a firmer suspension. Front side airbags and OnStar assistance are available as part of the Protection Package option. Satellite radio is also available. Added midyear was a Sport Appearance Package option. It includes 16-inch chrome wheels vs. standard 15s, firmer suspension, sport interior trim, and chrome-tipped dual exhausts. A sunroof bundled with CD/MP3 player is available and is required with the Protection Package.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise the smallest passengers cars. These vehicles range from tiny economy models to slightly larger popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons.

Our Best Buys include the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, and Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix twins. Our Recommended picks include the Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, and Toyota Corolla.