Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV (Unique styling and configuration)
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a versatile vehicle with a distinctive design, often emphasizing utility and cargo space.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee (Liberty).
Styling:
Radical, polarizing 'New Edge' design language; distinctive plastic body cladding; unique silhouette.
Utility:
Modular cargo system (Versatility Package often included a configurable cargo area with a small refrigerator/cooler and a slide-out tailgate/work surface).
Powertrain Options:
3.4L V6 engine available across most trims; FWD and AWD configurations.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, emissions controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems, transmission operation.
Chassis:
Brake system (ABS operation), steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Lighting systems (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrumentation and gauges, warning indicators, audio system, climate control system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), battery and charging system basics.
Body:
Doors, windows, mirrors, seats, seat belts, airbags, cargo area, roof rack system (if equipped), jack and tool kit location.
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, parking, using cruise control, operating climate controls, using the audio system, operating lighting, using power accessories.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning and care, refueling instructions, tire changing procedure, jump-starting procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Interpretation of dashboard warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting for common issues (e.g., battery, flat tire).
Depth:
Designed for the vehicle owner. Covers operation, basic maintenance, and safety features. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typical of a service manual.
Engine Code:
LA1 (GM 3400 SFI V6)
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3387 cc)
Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 60-degree V6
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.57 in (89 mm x 90.5 mm)
Horsepower:
185 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
210 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Minimum)
ECM:
GM Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios not detailed in owner's manual but typical for GM 4T65-E family.
Drive Type:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system available.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) integrated with ABS and engine management for FWD and AWD models.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent, often Dexron VI is backward compatible)
Length:
184.7 inches (4691 mm)
Width:
71.2 inches (1808 mm)
Height:
65.7 inches (1669 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.4 inches (2703 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.0 inches (178 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 23.7 cubic feet (671 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 63.9 cubic feet (1809 L)
Curb Weight FWD:
Approx. 3600-3700 lbs (1633-1678 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
Approx. 3800-3900 lbs (1724-1769 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4700-4900 lbs (2132-2223 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not rated or poor for 2002 models (due to design and testing protocols of the era).
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific test and year, but generally varied).
IIHS Ratings:
Generally rated as Marginal or Poor in frontal offset tests.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) standard on AWD models, optional or standard on some FWD trims.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger; available side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front outboard occupants; LATCH child seat anchors.
Rollover Protection:
Designed with a focus on SUV stability, though specific rollover ratings vary by model year and testing body.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional premium sound system. Cassette player was also available.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems, with standard air conditioning.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system for highway driving comfort.
Rear Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Onstar:
OnStar communication system available as an option on certain trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12347744 (Green, Conventional) or Dex-Cool (Orange, Extended Life) if specified for newer fills. Consult manual for original fill.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM P/N 1050017 or Dexron III automatic transmission fluid.
Headliner Sagging:
Common issue due to adhesive failure in the headliner fabric.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets can lead to coolant leaks and engine misfires on the 3400 V6.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators is a relatively common complaint.
ABS Sensor Failures:
ABS wheel speed sensor failures can trigger ABS and traction control warning lights.
Body Cladding Issues:
Plastic body cladding can fade, warp, or detach over time due to UV exposure and material fatigue.
Manufacturer:
Pontiac, a division of General Motors (GM).
Pontiac Legacy:
Known for performance-oriented vehicles and bold styling (e.g., Firebird, GTO, Trans Am).
Design Philosophy:
Conceptualized as a versatile crossover with unique styling, aiming to blend SUV practicality with minivan-like interior space and car-like driving dynamics.
Platform:
GMT263 platform, shared with the Buick Rendezvous and Chevrolet Venture/Trans Sport/Montana.
Production Years:
2001-2005
Manufacturing Location:
General Motors (GM) Cami Assembly Plant, Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada.
Sales Performance:
Polarizing styling led to lower-than-expected sales and a mixed critical reception, despite its practical features.
