Pontiac Aztec I (GMT250) gallery (2001–2005)
The first and only generation of the Pontiac Aztek mid-size crossover was produced from 2001 to 2005 at GM's Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico.
The vehicle was built on GM's front-wheel-drive U-body platform shared with the company's minivans and was marketed as a sport recreational vehicle for active lifestyles. The powertrain lineup consisted exclusively of a 3.4-liter V6 naturally aspirated gasoline engine producing 185 horsepower, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Buyers could choose between front-wheel-drive configurations and versions equipped with the Versatrak all-wheel-drive system featuring an independent rear suspension. The model stood out for its bold and controversial exterior styling with heavy plastic cladding, as well as unique interior features such as a removable center console cooler and an optional camping tent package. Throughout its production run, the car received minor updates: in 2002, the gray cladding was replaced by body-colored panels, clear turn signals were added, and equipment options expanded, including the Rally Edition. The primary sales market was North America, but due to its polarizing design, sales fell well short of expectations, leading to the discontinuation of production in late 2004.
