It's not just the exterior that is nice to look at, it's what's inside too. But before I praise the interior layout and quality,

The fusion of classic and modern Pontiac characteristics makes for quite a nice looking, and great driving car. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

the Electric Blue Metallic exterior colour which my test Pursuit sported was quite popular with the masses. I received many compliments on its paint job and how 'bold' it looked. I must admit, blue isn't my favourite colour, but it worked in favour of the Pursuit. The interior: what a treat to work with. Unlike the rather boring cabins of some of its competitors like the Honda Civic or Ford Focus, the Pursuit's cabin is nicely polished with brushed nickel-coloured accents and white-face sport gauges. It is cleanly finished and clearly labeled. Buttons and gauges are easily identifiable and the lines around the dash are tight. The Pursuit SE's interior also offers a standard digital information centre which enables the driver to monitor fuel economy, speed and engine oil lifespan with the push of the "i" button, a feature not found on any of its competitors as standard.

Can it get any better than a nicely styled exterior with a tightly knit interior? Yes. It has heated seats! Okay, that's

Unlike the rather boring cabins of some of its competitors, the Pursuit's interior is nicely polished with brushed nickel-coloured accents and white-face sport gauges. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

not the only reason. My test Pursuit came with the optional leather-appointed seats with dual-stage heated front cushions. This, unfortunately, is an optional feature for an extra $1,200, but it is well worth it. A leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and gear selector is, however, standard with the SE package. Also standard is air conditioning, power door locks, windows and trunk, keyless entry remote, cruise control, a 3.5-inch stainless steel exhaust with a chrome tip, a set of P205/55R16 touring tires with 16-inch aluminum wheels, and front disc and rear drum brakes with four-wheel ABS, just to name a few things.