2004 Pontiac Sunfire Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Since many first-time car buyers are teenagers (or their parents), they don't want a boxy boring compact, but something that looks good, is...
Since many first-time car buyers are teenagers (or their parents), they don't want a boxy boring compact, but something that looks good, is fun to drive, but won't put a hurting on their wallet. This young, up-and-coming consumer is who Pontiac is targeting with their Sunfire coupe, in an attempt to build up brand loyalty. To accomplish this, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire features sporty front-end styling, a sports-tuned suspension, rear spoiler, and a zippy little Ecotec engine.
The 2004 Sunfire comes in only one trim, the SE coupe. A 140-hp, 2.2-liter DOHC I4 engine is under the hood, attached to a standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed auto tran. In 2003, the dual exhausts are dropped for a single chrome exhaust. A new option is a CD/MP3 player. The two-door coupe seats four, with split-folding rear seats to expand the 12 cubic foot trunk. Air conditioning, dual front airbags, foglights, and a radio are standard. If you want side impact bags, ABS brakes, or traction control, those are optional. Other add-ons include a sunroof, OnStar, satellite radio, and leather trim.
The 2004 Sunfire is popular as a tuner car, ripe for engine and style modifications. Drivers like the Ecotec engine power. Although off-the-line pickup is sluggish, high-speed acceleration is responsive and energetic. They also love how affordable this sporty looking and driving car is, and that the fuel economy is in the 30s for highway driving. A cheap plastic interior needs updating, and drivers say the seats are uncomfortable. They report numerous rattles and feel the trunk opening is too small. The 2004 Sunfire also rates poorly in crash tests. Though it gets four stars for frontal impact, side impact earns one and two stars.
What owners say
"Most owners of the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire appreciate its sporty appearance, reliable performance, and good fuel efficiency. They often highlight its quick acceleration and handling, making it a suitable choice for a starter car. However, some drivers express dissatisfaction with the lack of modern features and a cramped backseat. While many praise the car’s overall driving experience, a few also mention minor issues like brake alignment and interior aesthetics."
Incredibily quick for being a little 2.2 L N/A engine. Lots of low end torque and surprisingly spirited even in the high RPM ranges. Yes this is quite a bit nicer than my last one while it was a base model. :)
July 3, 2009I haven't had any problems with my 04 Sunfire, I have been using it mostly for highway travel. It's very aerodynamic and handles well in bad weather. I bought the base model,I cant complain!
May 2, 2007no power locks no power windows no power mirrors no cd player fuel door on the wrong side (inconvenient side)
February 5, 2008What owners say
Incredibily quick for being a little 2.2 L N/A engine. Lots of low end torque and surprisingly spirited even in the high RPM ranges. Yes this is quite a bit nicer than my last one while it was a base model. :)
July 3, 2009I haven't had any problems with my 04 Sunfire, I have been using it mostly for highway travel. It's very aerodynamic and handles well in bad weather. I bought the base model,I cant complain!
May 2, 2007no power locks no power windows no power mirrors no cd player fuel door on the wrong side (inconvenient side)
February 5, 2008My Sunfire was the least expensive certified used car on the GM lot when I bought it. It has been extrememly reliable and the gas mileage is good, too. I had been driving bigger cars and now enjoy going to the gas station less. I have only had to replace the brakes thus far.
February 2, 2008great gas milage (350 / tank), good handling, standard or automatic - quick acceleration, does what you want it to, only routine repairs, easy to make faster, easy to maintain, biiiggg trunk - hauls a lot for a car, no problems, fun to drive
December 22, 2009sporty, economic, a good starter car
March 28, 2008it's good on gas, it will get u on the highway good enough, it can roar up to 170km/h with not to much problem, good braking stops when u ask it to, it was stock 140hp but i brought it up to 150 so it has some more kick to it. yeah not a bad car.
December 30, 2008I love my car its gas efficient but fast and very sporty looking!!! The braking is very good on short distance breaking. I have a lot of miles on my car but it still runs like new and the most i have to do are oil changes.
June 28, 2008Brakes go out of alignment, and the gas mileage in real life is not all it's cracked up to be, but overall is a nice driving car.
May 21, 2007It is not a bad car, but i mean come on it is a sunfire!! I think evryone andthere dog owns one of these... that is my only problem with this car.Overall i would recommend this car as a good starter car that is it!! I really do not like the interior of sunfires or cavaliers, they havent changed at all in like what over 10 years, Come on
August 4, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $15,495 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 28 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $11,460 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 28 | Drivetrain FWD |
