Pontiac Aztek Concept

Pontiac Aztek Concept

DETROIT - Pontiac wants you to believe that its Aztek concept isn't a car, a minivan, an SUV, or a pickup truck - but rather an all-new form of transportation it calls an LSV, for Lifestyle Support Vehicle. But this little four-seat hatchback is simply GM's way of living up to the Pontiac brand image of building excitement while targeting overactive Gen-Xers who shop the mini-sport-ute market.

For something saddled with such bizarre looks, the Aztek has an ambitious mission. Don Butler, Pontiac's future concept brand manager, explained that Aztek's "on-the-edge styling and unmatched flexibility separate this multifunctional vehicle from current offerings." We'd say its styling alone is enough to separate it from any hope of measurable sales. While Pontiac designers described its exterior shape as "serious fun," we'd say it's more like "sci-fi chunky funky."

At any rate, this crossover hybrid is yet another possible entry into what many automakers are seeing as an emerging market: the compact multipurpose vehicle. These odd-looking creations go beyond today's mini-SUVs, adding more function and versatility to support active lifestyles.

With front-wheel drive, traction control, large four-wheel, antilock disc brakes and truck-like 18-inch tires, Aztek is set up to handle rough roads like a sport-utility. But with its 3.4-liter V6 and multipurpose bodystyle, it can still feel like a sporty Pontiac on the road while offering minivan-like cargo capacity and pickup truck box accessibility.

Inside, a titanium instrument panel with motorcycle-type gauge cluster gives the cockpit a high-tech appearance. A console between the front buckets slides under the dash far enough to allow the driver or front passenger access to the rear captain's chairs, just like in a minivan.

Behind the back seats, Aztek has 35-cubic feet of storage area (compared with 19 cubic feet in the Ford Windstar); with the rear seats removed, there's a generous 105 cubic feet of cargo space. Pull out the rear seats and fold up the back of Aztek's roof, and you've got an open load area like a pickup, with a flat load floor covered by a plastic mat.

Pontiac officials consider the Aztek a possible production model, if the vehicle draws a positive reaction while on the auto show circuit. And Butler seems to think its upright stance, ram-air intakes and prominent, angular beak gives it "an aggressive, in-your-face look" that will appeal to young active types. "It's for people who want to be seen," he said, "who want to be noticed."

They'll get noticed all right, Mr. Butler. But will they be admired? We'd prefer a simpler, more purposeful design that wouldn't have to scream for attention. After all, why dress up the Aztek's beautiful ideas with the automotive equivalent of spiked hair, a nose ring and a tattoo?