Then again, for $22K something has got to give, and in most accomplishments that the Pursuit is chasing, it is closing the

In most accomplishments that the Pursuit is chasing, it is closing the distance on the competition. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press)

distance on the competition. It is definitely bolted together firmly, except for one wide gap between the hood and grille which is more visually disappointing than ill fitting, and it has just enough attitude in its stock appearance to justify a few DIY upgrades to bring it serious cred. As it stands, it could easily compete in the junior rocket market with the likes of the Corolla XRS, the GTI 1.8T, Lancer Ralliart, Sentra SE-R Spec V, but there is still room to grow.

Of course, with the word on the web to expect a Solstice GXP, turbocharged, intercooled and good for 240 horsepower, or the already available Cobalt SS Supercharged in the 200+ hp club, it would only take a stroke of the accounting department's mighty pen of approval to make a truly 'hot' Pursuit for Canadian Pontiac lovers - one that our friends to the south would be jealous of. You know that Pontiac fans will be all over it. Come on, GM, give 'em what they want.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $22,195 - $27,170
• Body Type: 2-door coupe
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 171 hp, 163 lb-ft of torque, 2.4L, 16-valve DOHC supercharged I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc with ABS
• Curb Weight: 1,268 kg (2,795 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 394 L (13.9 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy manual): 9.4 / 6.3 L/100 km
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy auto): 9.3 / 6.6 L/100 km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Dodge SRT-4, Ford Focus ST, Honda Civic Coupe Si, Hyundai Tiburon GT, Mazda3 GT, MINI Cooper S Works, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Saturn ION Red Line, Subaru Impreza / WRX, Toyota Corolla XRS, VW GTI
• Web Site: www.gmcanada.com