The steering rack is also optimized for quiet operation and improved feel, while no compromise tires make a big difference

Pontiac chose to bias the Pursuit towards ride and handling quality over fuel economy. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

in the car's overall balance, ride and handling. Actually, Pontiac chose to bias the Pursuit towards ride and handling quality over fuel economy, giving up two tenths at the gas pump in order to give the car improved driving dynamics. According to Parks each tire and wheel has been given its own calibration, tuned to optimize the car's overall feel while out on the road. Not only does the Pursuit raise its game with regards to ride and handling, but I think a great deal of credit needs to go to GM's engineers who additionally managed to isolate all the grumbles and groans that normally seep out a cars' chassis, engine bay and other components into the cabin. Rather, the Pursuit an especially quiet car.

In achieving this a variety of steps were taken, including the addition of a

Pontiac engineers put in plenty of hours to ensure the Pursuit is an especially quiet car. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

special polymer coating on pistons, which reduces friction and therefore noise, plus attachments between engine and transmission, adding strength to stiffen the powertrain which drops bending noise. Also, the inclusion of a structural oil pan makes the engine area more rigid, which reduces noise, and cam chain and tensioner improvements also did their part to bring the decibel level down. Sound deadening includes the use of Quiet Steel in the plenum and front of dash. Quiet Steel is basically two layers of laminated sheetmetal stuck together with Visco elastic material. Parks made a point of saying, "No one has Quiet Steel in this segment!"