2002 Pontiac Sunfire Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Written by CarGurus Editorial Team

Published August 8, 2022

$15,180 to $17,720

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Overview

A baby Grand Am, some call the Pontiac Sunfire, a compact economy car with enough sporty lines and flourishes (standard rear spoiler) that...

A baby Grand Am, some call the Pontiac Sunfire, a compact economy car with enough sporty lines and flourishes (standard rear spoiler) that make it more attractive and appealing than the Chevy Cavalier, with which it shares a platform. New this year for the 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is a standard tilt steering wheel on the SE and an electronic trunk release for all models. Other than that, the Sunfire awaits a much needed update.

There are two trim levels -- SE and GT. The SE comes as a sedan or coupe, with a 2.2-liter, 115-hp I4 engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The GT starts out the year with a 2.4-liter, 150-hp DOHC I4, but later in the year gets a new Ecotec 2.2-liter DOHC I4 rated at 140-hp. The new lightweight engine is more refined, quieter, and livelier than the old one. It will be optional for the SE. Air conditioning, a security system, cassette player, ABS brakes, and daytime running lights are standard on all 2002 Sunfires. Moving up to the GT adds a CD player, foglights, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. The Sunfire is Pontiac's entry-level car and is aimed at a younger consumer. To this end, options include a Monsoon sound system, alloy wheels, and a sunroof.

Drivers say the 2002 Sunfire is definitely a good starter car, as it's easy on the wallet both at the dealership and at the gas pump. However, there are numerous problems reported with the front struts and the check engine light. The Sunfire feels roomier than other compacts, and owners like the big trunk that can be expanded with fold-down rear seats. Gas mileage is decent and the GT is energetic and fun to drive. There is reported body roll and a sloppy feel behind the wheel for some drivers, who also complain about the seat comfort. Cupholders are located poorly.

What owners say

AI Summary · 21 reviews

"Owners of the 2002 Pontiac Sunfire generally find it to be a reliable and fun car that gets good gas mileage. Many appreciate its sporty look and decent performance for daily driving, but several drivers mention a lack of power and a few reliability issues over time. While some drivers enjoy its handling and sporty features, others are deterred by its limitations in heating for winter and concerns about interior quality."

3.9

21 reviews

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by Dan A

The Sunfire is cheap to own, nothing more. The 5 spd was nice, although still pretty sluggish. The ABS brakes suck, and it had lots of clunks and rattles in the suspension, but with 250,000km who really cares? I sure didn't. It was a great car I got for a cheap price that served me very well, was fun to drive as it was a 5 speed. Car was exceptionally great on fuel.

July 17, 2009

by Anonymous

This car is Fast! The manual transmission allows you to catch that yellow light, throw it into a lower gear and get ahead, or just plain tear out of a stop light. The Stereo is amazing too, top of the line sound equipment and equalizers bring tranquil notes to the music guru, or if you just like to jam its loud! The visual appeal sneak's anybody's attention between the added LED lights and the cleanliness of the car.

May 9, 2012

by Joyce R

the car runs really good, it's a 02 in good shape I like it but I wouldn't drive it in the winter, it has hardly any heat in it when it drops down to -20 ..... I need heat in the winter....

September 8, 2009