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I don't know about you, but the above quote from the autonews.com story about Ford's upcoming new vehicle couldn't sound any more like the Aztek unless they mentioned the name Aztek in it.
"Ford intends to doom their vehicle to sales failure by giving it the burden of hideous, disjointed styling festooned with every gill, scoop, ridge and gimmick a 13-year old could dream up.
They plan to overprice it, then, force it on rental companies. Its redesign will be announced about 6 months into its production to assure that anyone interested will wait for the new one. They hope to sell 30% of their goal"
If the story said all of that, then the vehicle would be "Aztek-Like"
I am sure next year when a few Aztek owners look to trade in their 2001 Aztek's, they will be lucky to get 50% of what they paid...!!
What buyers DON'T like about SUVs/Trucks is the ride (lack of car-like handling & comfort), the poor gas milage, the noise levels in the cabin and the utilitarian interiors.
SO, carmakers were really stumped because the perfect vehicle already exists: the minivan. So, when questioned why they didn't just buy a minivan, folks claimed "the stigma", "I'm single... I don't have kids", "I don't like the looks", "I'm not a soccer Mom". So, enter vehicles like the highly successful Lexus RX300, the BMW X5, The subaru Forester, the Ford Escape and the Honda CR-V. These vehicles are all "SUV-Looking" but are built with passenger-car platforms so they ride more like a car. Of course NONE of these vehicles has a LOT of cargo capacity so enter the Aztek... built off a minivan so you get the car ride, SUV "look" (I know, they kinda missed that one...) and minivan cargo capacity.
Ford is going to try the same thing but I'm thinking the styling will be far more palatable and they do have a "gap" in the lineup now because the escape is 5-passenger only, but the new Explorer offers that 3rd seat, but is still a truck. That coupled with the fact that the Windstar is getting a little "long in the tooth" and this new vehicle is the perfect fit. NOW... this gives GM 2 years before the Ford hits the street... if they were SMART, they would go back to the drawing board with the Aztek and do a more extensive restyle and "re-introduce" the Aztek (new name of couse....) at the same time Ford introduces theirs. I mean, I think we can all agree that if the Aztek looked like the Rondevous it would be a runaway hit. Hell, why don't they just plop a Pontiac grille on the thing for now and sell a Pontiac version... It would look like a clone but they'd probably sell every one they build.
What I've mocked is that GM has bungled every aspect of the execution of the idea. Horrific styling, stupid ads, No AWD for 6 months, Bad colors, wrong pricing and dependable but ancient mechanicals.
Honestly, besides the basic concept, it there one thing GM has done right?
Just got my GT 2 weeks ago, Steel Blue, power seats, 6 CD Changer, OnStar, HUD. I've actually
made use of most of the functional features of the car (including the removable door pouches).
>Just some Q's from a potential buyer...
> Does a loaded model EVER exist in a dealer's lot with the towing package in it or are they always
>special order?
When we were shopping, the dealer was able to pull up sheets with what was in the Midwest
area based on our criteria... several had the towing option, fully loaded.
>What separate controls do passengers have in the back seat re the stereo and air?
Back seat passengers (my GT) have an input selection and volume controls on the roof console,
and can listen to a separate source from the main speakers by using the head phones (included).
As for air, I THINK the only thing they can do is adjust the rear nozzles.
Overall, very enjoyable.. The only major problem I've had is the windshield.. According to my
dealer, a layer in the windshield laminate is used as the ground plane for the OnStar GPS antenna.
On mine, the interface connection is not properly connected, result, new windshield needed.
Robyn
With dual-zone climate control, I assume that the rear vents accept the driver's setting for temperature. Now Tri-zone climate control (like on Caddy's DeVille)...that's cool. Of course, the S-Class has air-conditioned seats and all.
Mark
Thanks for that info. I thought they still offered that.
As far as the air-conditioned tent, that's a pretty keen idea, although they probably wouldn't make a seperate unit. Theoretically, you could just use the Aztek's A/C to cool the entire vehicle, but the tent probably isn't that airtight.
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
So, that's why they put that tent in the back. It all makes sense now... ;->
Is the OnStar system the same as "Online information system" mentioned in the 1SC option? Is it possible to hook up a GPS to an Aztek so equipped? Does any of this "online information" get projected on the windshield in the HUD?
Seems like last year they said you couldn't get a sunroof AND a rear controlled stereo...now it looks like the CF5 sunroof is available with rear audio controls. Am I missing something?
Thanks again,
Louis, a possible new Aztek owner
So my suggestion to people interested but worried about resale - do what I did - lease it. The lease rates, here in Canada, are very low, and at the end of the day if the vehicle flops and resale is poor, I simply hand the keys back to GM and it's their problem.
This way I get the fun of driving a "different" vehicle with none of the risk.
Here in Canada the first year is free but after that you pay $199 a year for the basic service (safety only) and $399 a year for the premium package (directions, hotel and restaurant reservations etc).
Hope this info helps.
Perhaps if we ignore him he will go away. It's the only hope.
LOVE that Saturn VUE though!!
There is absolutely NO source out there listing resale on the 2001 Pontiac Aztek at the moment. What we CAN do is look at other similar vehicles and see what kind of hit THEY took and hope the Aztek does the same or better: A 2000 Pontiac Montana, standard configuration (no options) retailed for $24,980 (with destination). Trade-in value for that vehicle (1 year old with 15,000 miles) according to KBB.com is $15,085 (Lost 40% of its value in 1 year). That means it is worth 60% of it's value after one year.
Another good source is www.kiplinger.com
They list the following values for 2001 minivans:
Honda Odyssey (2yrs=65%, 4yrs=50%)
Toyota Sienna (2yrs=62%, 4yrs=48%)
Dodge Caravan (2yrs=55%, 4yrs=41%)
Pontiac Montana (2yrs=55%, 4yrs=40%)
Ford Windstar (2yrs=52%, 4yrs=38%)
You might want to take notice that the Pontiac's value is almost identical to the wildly popular (market leader) Dodge Caravan, and BETTER than the next biggest seller, the Ford Windstar. Again, these are not the numbers for the Aztek... I'm posting them to show that Pontiac resale is not "bottom of the barrel" as some would like to think. Also, just because a vehicle isn't sold in great numbers does not doom it to have poor resale. (They sell 10x the number of Caravans vs. Hondas). Also, "bad looks" also doesn't doom a car... the Toyota Echo (which I feel is UGLY... more so than the Aztek) has VERY good resale, even when Toyota admits it has not met sales expectations.
I try to drive my cars for 10+ years so I don't factor in depreciation too highly. If you trade every few years, it's smart to run the leasing numbers on any rig. Smarter still to buy used I suppose. All those numbers are pretty scary when you think about it.
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Speed (user configurable for MPH/KPH)
Turn signal direction
Radio Station
CD Number and Track
Low Fuel
Check Guages (when in park)
I'd imagine that Low Oil or Low Coolant messages would also show
up there (but thankfully haven't seen!
The Driver Information Center (DIC) consists of a 2-line character matrix display in the
Speedometer face, and a square graphics matrix (1 1/2 x 1 1/2) display in the tach
face. The square panel is either yellow or red, based on urgency and displays such
messages as 'Rear Hatch Ajar', 'Door Ajar', and 'Low Fuel'.
The 2-line display is selectable as to what to disply (or turn it off) by use of a Mode and Set
switch to the right of the instrument cluster.
This is where your outside temp and compass heading are always displayed.
You can switch between:
Average Fuel Economy (since last average speed reset)
Instant Fuel Economy
Average Speed (since last reset)
Fuel Used (approximate - since last reset)
Fuel Range Remaining (based on fuel guage)
Oil Life remaining %
One other I can't remember (coolant life?)
This is also where you can personalize your settings for auto-locking,
timed light display, and remote lock/unlock prefs.
VERY cool stuff you would have had to have the dealer do for you before.
Robyn
I personally like to be able to get an owner's perspective on chronic
maintenance issues or usage tips, exclusive of what shoppers
or pundits have to say.
Not that I'm saying abandon this forum.
Just a bit more focus than a general discussion forum.
They are talking about perhaps eventually enabling web-page
hosting.
What say you all?
Robyn
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I think that it would be great to add an Aztek Club to the Pontiac Owner's Club folder. So far, us Bonnevillers are the only ones there.
Maybe later, the Grand Prix discussion could be added too since it seems pretty active. It would be nice to have all Pontiac brands represented there.
Well, good evening to all and a Pontiac Smile to boot! ;-)
Azteks being stolen in Montreal..... (along with every other vehicle)!!
I thought the CLUBB could help. Any ideas as to the effectiveness??
If you must "secure" your vehicle with some gadgets, why not try LoJack. I hear that if your vehicle ever gets stolen the cops can locate it within a reasonable time frame; OR your money back :-)
Seriously though, you gotta invest in quality and go with a top-notch security gadget... there are many good ones out there today.
On a more serious note, I don't understand why it would be a theft target. The market for spare parts from it would have to be small, and its resale value probably will not be good.
As to whether the Club will work, I would expect so. I recall walking near Wayne State U in Detroit and seeing these devices on about 50% of the cars parked roadside. A serious thief will cut your steering wheel and be gone in a matter of 1 minute or so, but said thief would almost certainly go after the vehicle lacking a 'hassle' device. So slap it on and have peace of mind.
Pending 'Tek owner smie............$)
I also wanted a sunroof. The audio controls at the far end of the Tek are available with the sunroof. (The "tailgate" controls.) What is NOT available with the sunroof is the separate back seat audio system, so that your kids can listen to their Harry Potter tapes while you listen to your CDs. Good luck!
With Honda...... 5.8%. Final analysis:
Honda CRV was $29,990...... 5.9%
Aztek was $28,120.......1.9
Sorry bud.........But I got much better vehicle for the price. Size/Power/Price.
The xterra was out of sight by comparison...........I did the in depth shopping.
Plus do not be using words like VERACITY.........when they don't exist. Maybe Vera City is a sunny town in Florida but has nothing to do with my "so called claims".
My claims are accurate and real. My I remind you what Zircon means:
Silicate Mineral often used as "fake" gem!!!
You did not do the shopping.....you did not talk to the dealers.......you did not negotiate. So do not be making high handed false claims to support your.......... irrational postulations. (look up those words.....my fine friend)
always wearing....... the
And if your prime purpose was to call me a liar.........well your VERACITY(?sic) was misplaced.
Vera City Florida!!
So, if the real price of the vehicle was 29000 or whatever you claim you paid, why would they post retail stickers of 40,800, plus applicable taxes (15%)? Not only on the puke green, but on the black one which also was on the lot. If you can negotiate a big reduction in price it is only because supply:demand rules apply and nobody else wants to purchase one. Pretty simple. That price does not include the necessary prescription of prozac, which for our American friends, is not covered by provincial health insurance.
Can you imagine anyone buying a minivan in camoflauge for $47000 out the door when they could own an Acura TL, Infiniti i30, Lincoln LS, Honda Odessey, Chrysler Town and Country, Nissan Pathfinder or Maxima or Xterra, Toyota Highlander or Avalon, etc., etc. etc.
Just imagine turning $47000 of hard earned income into 20,000 the minute your exit the dealer's lot.
The actual rebate that was sent to me was $2,000.........My wife took the original call from GM.....She was cooking diner after long day of work.....kids in backround.....she remembered $3,000.......told me 3K which I happily reported.
When i got the check.....it was 2K.
Enjoy..... VERA CITY!!
All PROZAC for our American friends.......Here they are adding it to your drinking water. Combined with flouride.......You will be sedated and have clean cavity free teeth.
All the Best Gonzo!!
AWD AZTEK Black Leather......$33,000. Check out the ad.
What I CLAIMED i paid is what I Paid.......That my friend is the veracity (better dictionary..LOL...Thx)
Must be the rarefied air in Colorado or something.
BTW, our drug plan here does cover all those psychohallucinogenic drugs... unfortunately our system is so overburdened that those who really need them often don't get them.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
Lincoln Continental
Kia (any)
Lada (any).
At least the latter two vehicles have low initial cost, until the Azzzztek. Then again, these vehicles lack the tent.
I will try to get a digital photo of the puke Aztek and its sticker. This could take time, but since this montana-clone minivan is not going anywhere fast, this shouldn't be a problem.
There is no vehicle, no thing, no subject that I dispise enough to do what a few individuals have done here. The disdain being expressed is of the "postal" variety . I'm happy 1,000's of miles separate me.
Happy motoring. The AZTEK remains a solid, reliable vehicle that is unique and different. Sales are even picking up.......COOL!!
wearing the
By the way the vehicle is spelt AZTEK........any other posted name should be deleted as profanity......
The reason for posting here, is that I have never in 20 years of driving seen any auto manufacturer, make a car that MOST people find so polarizing..( I am being nice by just saying POLARIZING)...
P.S. Welcome home US Navy Airman....!!!
See ......yes Gm took a risk and it has not been rewarded. But the vehicle is a solid vehicle and whenever a corporation like GM takes a risk and trys something that is good.
See it has no affect on YOU or your Friends......In fact you dislike GM so much you would think you would quietly gloat over it.
Instead.........Like bullies in a school yard.......you come and mock and dance around the tree rejoicing how bad the vehicle is and how terrible GM is.
You know I've watched from afar about the BMW x.5.....yes it has great crash tests but multiple recalls and a rash of troubles..........However do I dance around the XMAS tree telling those owners that their first year vehicle is $70K of squeaking stalling trouble. No... why would I do that.
Doing that would be childish and silly.......... Why do it with the Aztek.
You own your vehicles.......enjoy them.
If not why bother? Sad that a few under occupied individuals have lowered the discussion level. Anyone who has followed this discussion knows who these "malcontents" are and immediately dismisses anything valuable they might have to say because of their constant barrage of drivel.
AS TO POST 2096: My opinion is the flight crew should have been tried as spies!! Robert Hanssen won't get off with an apology!