2001 Pontiac Aztek review from North America

Rear hatch lifters are weak, i.e., unable to fully extend the back hatch for complete access. Even with a significant upward push, the hatch partially closes. Dealer comment was essentially--"lube them well and you'll have this."

Windshield wiper design is poor for cold climates. The wipers sit below the level of the hood so it's impossible to clear them of snow and ice. Summary, if you stop the car with a warm windshield and then get snow, the wipers freeze to the windshield. Since you cannot reach them to clear them, the wipers tend to rip when you use them. Winter wipers reduce, but don't solve, the problem. The only apparent way to solve it if you park outside in the cold is leave the wipers in the "up" position". This makes it very hard to clear the rest of the windshield. Dealer comment was--"We'll be happy to sell and install new wiper blades."

A/C condenser is a nightmare. First one was warranty repaired in 2003. Warranty repair failed in 2005. Dealer records were "lost" so they "couldn't" confirm that it was their work that went bad--new cost ~$400. A/C condenser installed in 2005 failed in 2006. Dealer comment -- it must have been installed wrong; we can install a new one for ~$600.

Only reason I'd still consider buying a GM car is based on my experience with my Vibe.

Space is nice. Shape is a bit bizarre, but it handles well and accommodates the two teens and their stuff.

It was the only 5-door, hatchback, US company car sold w/in 50 miles of my house in 2001. In retrospect, I should have considered imports or kept my 1988 escort.