On the other hand, the cosmetic changes don't really address Aztek's biggest style problem because that would require a much bigger engineering effort. Aztek's biggest problem has also been the way the two parts of its rear end come together to create a harshly box-like form.
Putting a wing on the back end of the 2002 Aztek does tend to take the edge off the look, but it also creates the sense of someone trying to disguise a physical attribute they're embarrassed by.
I'm also sorry they took much of the cladding off Aztek for 2002 and went with a monotone look, but what can you do?
It doesn't really matter what happens to Aztek's exterior, since this vehicle was always about interior packaging and driving pleasure. That is to say, it's cool and fun to drive.
Those are the attributes that managed to put Aztek on the top of the "entry-level" category of SUV buyers in a J. D. Power survey to determine which vehicles buyers liked best, ahead of the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Sante Fe, Mazda Tribute, Suzuki XL7, and Toyota RAV4, among others.
According to J. D. Power's findings, Aztek owners don't care that much for the exterior styling but they "have high praise" for the its powertrain, sound system and interior comfort features.
Aztek brand manager Jim Vurpillat isn't surprised at that. "We've been saying since we launched Aztek that its owners love this vehicle."
Putting a wing on the back end of the 2002 Aztek does tend to take the edge off the look, but it also creates the sense of someone trying to disguise a physical attribute they're embarrassed by.
I'm also sorry they took much of the cladding off Aztek for 2002 and went with a monotone look, but what can you do?
It doesn't really matter what happens to Aztek's exterior, since this vehicle was always about interior packaging and driving pleasure. That is to say, it's cool and fun to drive.
Those are the attributes that managed to put Aztek on the top of the "entry-level" category of SUV buyers in a J. D. Power survey to determine which vehicles buyers liked best, ahead of the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Sante Fe, Mazda Tribute, Suzuki XL7, and Toyota RAV4, among others.
According to J. D. Power's findings, Aztek owners don't care that much for the exterior styling but they "have high praise" for the its powertrain, sound system and interior comfort features.
Aztek brand manager Jim Vurpillat isn't surprised at that. "We've been saying since we launched Aztek that its owners love this vehicle."