JUDDZ made a very good point. To me, Mazda's have an incredibly good "feel" like their old ads said," It just feels right". I've owned a 626, MX-6, two RX-7s and currently a Miata. I really can't put it into words, but their cars are a joy to drive. FWD or RWD. makes no difference. All I can say about their dealer network is that they took care of all my warranty problems quickly, even though I was the 2nd. owner of my MX-6. Long term dependability? When compared to other Japanese cars I've owned, I'd have to say they are "down" on the list.
My biggest concern about the Solstice is GMs track record of letting its customers be the "test drivers" and do the R&D work on their new offerings. Case in point: The Allante, Fiero, and '84 Vette. Now I realize all new cars usually have some sort of "teething" problems when they make their debut, but GMs offerings always seemed to take an unusually long time to get theirs worked out. Then about the time they get the car "right" it's discontinued.
I hope with Lutz at the wheel, things might be different. I wish REDSC400s comments about dealer mark up by Pontiac won't happen, unfortunately I think we all know price gouging will be rampant. But since I've been admonished in the past by another forum member for complaining about outrageous prices, I'll just say, greed is good and not complain.
I look forward to the introduction of Saturn's Sky, it reminds me of the new Vette. Much the same way the old Opel GT resembled the '68 Corvette.