Getting firsthand information from an actual car owner is one sure way to get an idea of car performance once it leaves the lot. Autobytel features real consumer reviews that give the unbiased experience of a car.
Pros: Good looks, price, 5yr/100,000 warranty, MPG, & LOTS of features for the $$$
Cons: Needs improvement in acceleration, comfort, and 1-2 MPG more
Advice: It may turn-out to be a 'classic' - the demise of Pontiac leads to only a single year for this car!
22 yrs ago, I purchased my first 'micro-car' - '87 Chevy Sprint (2 dr hatchback) for about $7,000 brand new; carbuerated 1.0 liter - 3 cyl (49 hp), 5-speed, NOTHING power - not even the steering! It did have A/C, 2 dash-radio speakers (no radio), 12-in tires, cloth/vinyl seats, 12/12,000 warranty; that's it. I loved THAT CAR! Three weeks ago, for about the same price (adjusted for inflation) - $13,250 with tax! (4-dr hatchback) 1.6 liter / 4-cyl, VVT w/ MPFI (106 hp), Auto Trans, PS, PW, PL, AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3, 6 spkrs, tach, digital odometer w/ 2 trip-ometers, cruise control, intermittent wipers, steering wheel radio controls, tilt wheel, fog lamps, DRL's, rear window and outside mirror defogger, four airbags, remote & keyless entry w/ alarm, tire pressure monitor, rear spoiler, 3 cupholders, ONSTAR, 14-inch tires, high-quality full cloth seats w/ armrest & adj. lumbar for driver, all seats have adjustable head-restraints, 5yr/100,000 warranty: It rides well for its class, the sound system is above average, gets decent mileage, and has so many features not found in the competition and not available at any price 22 yrs ago. Yeserday, Aug 9, 2009, I drove to DFW from San Antonio. I double checked my math, I got 37 mpg @ 70 mph with A/C; I REALLY love THIS CAR! It's a bargain, looks good and fun-to-drive!