So the exterior and interior are nice looking, that's already been said, and the interior comes with more than a handful of

The driving dynamics of the Pursuit - along with the rest of the package - raise its class level significantly. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

standard features, so where to go from here? Well, the driving dynamics of the Pursuit - along with the rest of the package - raise its class level significantly. As mentioned, the new sedan is based on GM's Delta architecture which means that the rigid lower-dominant body structure is engineered as a single unit for mass efficiency and stiffness. "The underbody uses high-strength steel as welded members in strategic locations for maximum strength, structural integrity, mass optimization and crashworthiness," says GM. The Delta architecture offers a rigid foundation that allows the car to operate in harmony with its independent front suspension. The Pursuit takes tight turns fiercely, yet graciously. The 16-inch wheels really grip the

The SE is powered by a 2.2L, 16-valve, DOHC, I-4 Ecotec engine that produces 145 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 155 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

road for optimal performance in slippery or dry situations. Bottom line, it handles very well. In order to push the Pursuit into the turns fast enough to confirm that it is a solid-handling car, there has to be a sturdy engine powering it. And that's what the SE sedan has: a 2.2L, 16-valve, DOHC, I-4 Ecotec engine that produces 145 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 155 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. It's a base engine that competes for the top spot in the compact car segment. While I wasn't in the position to control all 145 horses manually, the optional four-speed automatic transmission was smooth and responsive. Hopefully I'll get my hands on a 5-speed manual, and be able to report on that in the near future.