2003 Pontiac Sunfire Coupe

Susan Frissell

This sharp little car is an appealing offering for the young–and first time car buyer. It’s been around for some time now, but gets an update here and there, just enough to keep it in the running in the crowded sub-compact category. Starting out at just under $15,000 the Sunfire Coupe we test-drove climbed up to the $20,000 mark, fast, with $4700 worth of options.

Painted in Silver Metallic with graphite color cloth interior, the Sunfire is a peppy, easy-to-drive two-door car. One can haul three passengers, although room in the backseat is limited. The 2.2-liter cylinder engine powering our Sunfire seems engine enough for get-up-and-go entering the highway or keeping up with traffic. We like the 24/33 miles-per-gallon rating, which in today’s economy should be a selling point.

Pontiac first introduced the 2003 Sunfire Coupe at the 2002 Chicago Auto Show. Dropping the sedan for 2003, Sunfire is now available in a single model with three distinct groups: 1SA, 1SB, 1SC. Also added for ’03 are three new colors, available OnStar communication system, three different tire sizes, three-point center rear seat belt, available side airbags and four all-new wheels and wheel covers.

Sunfire’s front end has been redesigned for the 2003 model year, and the rear styling revised. Still distinguishable, Pontiac has made enough exterior changes on the Sunfire to indicate an up-to-date model. Sunfire’s cateye headlamps and new integrated turn signals are a nice touch. A five-passenger coupe, Sunfire’s front seating fits a small driver well. The seats are plush and sit high making it an easy car to handle. All controls are within easy reach and give off a sporty feel.

The rear seating is a 60/40 split arrangement with a trunk pass-through allowing for hauling bikes, skis and even 2X4’s. This is a must for coupes and sedans today with competition from the wagons, minivans and SUVs. People are so used to having the space to carry their stuff. Believe it or not, there are some buyers left who are still not interested in driving a large vehicle, prefer a two-door coupe, but also would like to have extra room.

Our test Sunfire Coupe came equipped with one of three available Preferred Equipment Packages: 1SC which includes the 4-speed automatic transmission, performance suspension, larger 16-inch tires and 16-inch wheels, dual outlet exhaust, tilt steering wheel, console cup holder, left and righthand vanity mirrors, easy entry seat, front and rear floor mats, 4-wheel antilock brakes, controlled cycle wipers, security package, cruise, convenience package, sport interior package, XM Satellite ratio-100 channels with coast-to-coast digital sound ($3,050)

Other options included were a Sun and Sound package (sunroof, power glass, AM/FM stereo with compact disc, $675); Protection Package (side impact airbags/driver and passenger, OnStar communication system, $780); Power Package (power mirrors/windows, $380) and Monsoon premium audio system with 8 speakers, 200 watts, $195. Total savings on the packages was $555.

A lot of goodies added. It seems as though when opting for a GM car, all the extras are just that: extras. Standard equipment is not as plentiful as when going with an import competitor. One begins to wonder why you’re moving into a subcompact with a $20,000 price tag.

The Sunfire's ride is smooth and quiet. Handling and maneuverability isn't as effortless as we'd like. We found that using two hands when turning or parking was a must. And any extra room inside was at a premium, as expected in a coupe. Leg and headroom is sacrificed.

Copyright 2003. Susan Frissell. Women With Wheels. All Rights Reserved.