| It is definitely distinct in appearance, but so too is its composition and purpose. Pontiac calls it the world's 1st SRV, or sport-recreation vehicle, a multi-purpose machine designed to support active lifestyles with plenty of space for hauling bicycles, kayaks, snowboards, skis and other recreational gear. Designers drew inspiration from a number of sources, ranging from the multi-function Swiss Army Knife to the tone and feel of high-tech sports equipment like mountain bikes and scuba gear. The result is an interior that flips and folds and contorts as a highly individualized package with comfy space for five passengers and lots of personal stuff for sport and play.
Core mechanical components come from Pontiac's front-wheel-drive Montana, so Aztek drives and rides with the easy-to-maneuver agility of a minivan, but the tall stance and load-carrying capacity makes it act like a sport-utility wagon.
And that wild exterior package: Some say it is ugly. Pontiac calls it an aggressive statement pitched to a youthful, active audience.
Model Lineup
A 3.4-liter V6 engine provides 185 horsepower to the front wheels by way of an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transaxle. In January 2001, the Aztek is going to be offered with all-wheel drive; the AWD version uses GM's new Versatrak system, which has met favorable reviews.
Two models are available, Aztek and Aztek GT. The base Aztek at $21,445 packs an extensive list of standard equipment including frontal and side-impact airbags and anti-lock brakes. Air conditioning, power windows, power door locks and power mirrors are also regular. A GT package, beginning at $24,445, brings dual-zone heating and air conditioning, cruise control, traction control, remote keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, a removable console cooler along with a rooftop rack for mounting recreational equipment. |
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