The new SSEi has many redeeming qualities yet there are a few areas of concern. At $41,995 base, and $44,480 as tested, the SSEi isn't inexpensive by any standards. With this in mind the fit and finish of the interior is not up to the standard set by most in this class. The rearview mirror was loose to adjust and tended to wiggle while driving. The driver's door rattled, and the entire panel seemed as though it was coming loose when closing. As well, the air vent for defogging the driver's door window kept popping out from its hole - rather annoying. When a person dishes out this kind of money for a car, it should measure up to a certain standard of refinement. To be fair, it may have been this particular example that had these specific problems. Still, if this particular car had been the one you slapped down your hard-earned cash for, you might be visiting the dealer more often than expected?
So where does the SSEi really shine? Pontiac has included many thoughtful touches not expected but much appreciated. The passenger-side mirror points down when reversing, similar in execution to top-line BMWs. The automatic transmissions shifter handle fits the hand like few others. The driver information panel (amid the gauges) details specific problems in actual sentences such as, "Parking brake is engaged". The stereo remains on even after you remove the key from the ignition - only turning itself off when the door is opened. How about an automatic trunk that actually opens all the way when pressed? This might seem like a small, frivolous point, but life is made up of small, frivolous points. This is a feature that can be truly appreciated when your hands are full.
Pontiac also includes a handy roadside emergency package in the trunk. Packed inside you'll find an ice scraper for the windows, and a road flare as well as other convenient items. Together with GM's OnStar, that uses Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking technology and wireless communication to link the driver and vehicle with the OnStar Center, where advisors are available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, to offer real-time assistance, you can feel safe, secure and confident when zipping around the block or embarking on a long trip.
So where does the SSEi really shine? Pontiac has included many thoughtful touches not expected but much appreciated. The passenger-side mirror points down when reversing, similar in execution to top-line BMWs. The automatic transmissions shifter handle fits the hand like few others. The driver information panel (amid the gauges) details specific problems in actual sentences such as, "Parking brake is engaged". The stereo remains on even after you remove the key from the ignition - only turning itself off when the door is opened. How about an automatic trunk that actually opens all the way when pressed? This might seem like a small, frivolous point, but life is made up of small, frivolous points. This is a feature that can be truly appreciated when your hands are full.
Pontiac also includes a handy roadside emergency package in the trunk. Packed inside you'll find an ice scraper for the windows, and a road flare as well as other convenient items. Together with GM's OnStar, that uses Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking technology and wireless communication to link the driver and vehicle with the OnStar Center, where advisors are available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, to offer real-time assistance, you can feel safe, secure and confident when zipping around the block or embarking on a long trip.