Last year's three-speed automatic transmission, which was standard on SE sedans, is no longer offered. SE sedans, but not coupes, are available with optional power door locks, keyless entry and power windows with driver's express-down feature. Coupes, but not sedans, are available with a rear spoiler. My test car was a GT convertible with the new manual transmission. I found the new transmission more refined and easier to shift than the previous manual transmission, and above-average for this class of car.
Fifth gear is a great cruising gear for relaxed highway driving.
Sunfire coupes and sedans seat three rear passengers, but the convertible seats two in the rear. Still, there was a surprising amount of rear legroom and headroom for a convertible. Getting in to the back is a bit of a chore since the front passenger seatback folds forward but the seat doesn't automatically slide forward. This combination of a roomy interior and a versatile cargo area makes the Sunfire one of the most practical convertibles on the market. The power top has a single release lever in the centre at the top of the windshield and activates by pressing the button and turning the lever.