Surprise: Pontiac Aztek enters the 2002 model year
FOR RELEASE: October 4, 2001Pontiac Aztek Gets New Look, New Price And J.D. Power And Associates APEAL Award
DETROIT - Pontiac Aztek enters the 2002 model year with, among other features, a new look, more standard features - and lower Manufacturer's Retail Prices (MSRP) for both models.
Continuing to be in a class by itself, Aztek sports a fresh new look with a monotone exterior, a new rear spoiler and larger wheels and tires. Pricing will start at $19,995 MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) for the front-wheel drive model and $22,995 for the Versatrak all-wheel drive model (destination of $550 not included).
"We have given Aztek a fresh new look for 2002 while keeping up with the competitive marketplace and giving consumers a better value and more for their money," said Jim Vurpillat, Pontiac Aztek Brand Manager.
Also, as announced on Monday, October 1, Aztek owners helped to rank the sport recreation vehicle "most appealing" entry SUV, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2001 Automotive Performance, Execution And Layout (APEAL) Study.
Based on responses from more than 110,000 new-vehicle owners, the 2001 APEAL study uncovers what excites consumers about their new vehicle's features and design in eight specific areas. Aztek scored highest or second highest in almost every APEAL study category. Owners of the Pontiac Aztek have high praise for the SUV's powertrain, sound system and interior comfort features - three important APEAL categories - pushing the model's customer appeal ahead of the pack in the entry SUV market.
"Pontiac owners are passionate about their vehicles. It is wonderful to see the level of excitement and satisfaction they get from their Azteks," said Vurpillat. "Aztek was designed to be a life-style support vehicle, and being named the most appealing entry SUV really validates our belief in the personality and the capabilities of this vehicle."
Aztek owners are a unique group, made up of individuals from various age groups and lifestyles. And despite the diversity of their interests and activities, Aztek owners share the common bond of enthusiasm for their vehicles.
Tom and Diane Dunn, Aztek owners from Atlanta who flew all the way to Newark, N.J., and rented an Aztek so that they could participate in the Northeast Aztek Owners Rally this past summer, use their Aztek to host tailgate parties at Atlanta Falcons football games. "It's the best for tailgating! We tow a trailer that transforms into a picnic table and chairs, and once we get the barbecue going we open up the back and crank up the stereo."