I'll thank you not to talk to me about "uninformed" car buying. I know full well the difference in quality et al. between Honda and Pontiac. But when the price disrepency is this big, the Pontiac becomes a very likeable alternative.
The Civic Si is $31 372 with delivery and tax.
The Pursuit GT is $26 943 with delivery and tax.
That's $4400 in savings right there - never mind the thousands that will be saved thanks to GM's low interest rates. Honda is leasing at 8%, financing at 7%. GM's website isn't very friendly, but IIRC they're leasing at 1.5%, financing at 5%.
Granted, the Honda will hold onto its value and is certainly worth the extra money. But I'm talking about buying used. In two years, chances are you'll see used Civics asking $22 000. What will a used Pursuit GT be asking? I'm guessing closer to $17 000, if that.
Yes, the Civic is a better car. But for a lot of people, money is the bottom line, and the Pursuit offers a similar level of enjoyment for a lot less money. IMO, blindly citing the Civic as the better vehicle is uninformed. I've driven both, and for the money, the Pursuit GT is one helluva car.