But do all these refinements and stylish new duds improve the Sunfire enough to keep it selling well in the Canadian market? It's true that upstarts from Hyundai and Kia have taken a sizable chunk out of the Generals entry models in the past few years but 2003 might prove to be even more of a challenge. Mitsubishi is finally in Canada with its $15,997 Japanese engineered and built Lancer while domestic competitor Dodge is now back in the local entry level car game with its new SX 2.0 - really a restyled and repackaged Neon. That said its base model includes AM/FM/CD audio and fog lamps standard plus comes equipped with a 3-year bumper-to-bumper and 7-year powertrain warranty, while starting at only $14,995.
How will the Sunfire fare? Only time will tell. But GM should feel relatively secure in knowing that the new kids on the block will be doing double duty getting the word out to their 25 to 34 year old audience while Pontiac has years of good will built in this market.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP):$15,485 - $24,610
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: Front engine, FWD
- Engine: 140 hp, 150 lb-ft, 2.2-L, 16-valve DOHC I-4
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,193 - 1,257 kg (2,629 - 2,771 lb)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Capacity (seats up):351 L (12.4 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy):6.7 / 10.0 L/100 km (28 / 42 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km):36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors:Chevrolet Cavalier, Chrysler Neon, Dodge SX2.0, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra/Tiburon, Kia Spectra, Mazda Protegé, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn SL/SC, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf/Jetta
- Web Site:www.gmcanada.com
