1997 Pontiac Grand Am Stylin' into its second decade. By Joyce A. Tucker, New Car Test Drive .com

If a student of sociology were inclined to put a finger on the pulse of the

American automotive market, pointing said finger at a Pontiac Grand Am

buyer would be about as close to the nation's automotive center as you

might reasonably expect to get.

Pontiac's 1997 Grand Am is the division's volume leader and GM's leading

compact entry. As such, its development and evolution receives a lot of

attention from both customers and Pontiac dealers. The Grand Am has received

some significant refinements recently. The interior and front and rear

fascias were freshend last year. And this year there is an increase in

standard equipment.

Pontiac says the Grand Am appeals to active people who "want the

best combination of bold, distinctive styling, driving fun and value in

a compact car." For the most part, the Grand Am still delivers on

that promise, but its age shows when compared with newer competition, such

as the Ford Contour, Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Cirrus.

On the other hand, it's clear that Pontiac's excitement formula works.

When it first appeared, the Grand Am was one of three equally important

corporate cousins, along with the Buick Skylark and Oldsmobile Achieva.

But it seems likely that by the end of the 1997 model years the Grand Am

will be the only survivor.