[Number 3]

Most of what you posted is reasonable, but I sure wouldn't put the Aztek as the number 1 reason.

The number 1 reason it died was it didn't sell in any volumes. Due in part to many of the reasons you listed. However the COST to correct these things (unique non badge engineered cars for example) was prohibitive.

There were many plans to get Pontiac the products it needed, but they never were affordable for the volumes.

And if you look up the last years volumes for the Firebird, you'll get a clear sense of why it went bye bye.

In the end, Pontiac simply kept you from getting the best Chevrolets you could get.

But in the end, Pontiac had several uniquely styled cars that weren't badge engineered.

G8
G6
Solstice

But the badge engineered cars hurt the cause

Torrent
G5
G3

So as much as you may have loved Pontiac, and by starting this thread I'm guessng you do, Pontiac just ran it's course. When GM was selling 50% of the markets volume you could afford many brands. When you get below 20%, there just isn't enough capital to go around. In the end, you'll see better Chevys and Buicks as a result...............hopefully.