Pontiac G8 Review

2009 Pontiac G8 GT Sedan Shown

Perhaps because of their wide-open spaces, America and Australia share an affinity for large rear-wheel-drive performance cars. This has proven to be useful for General Motors; when the company decided to help its Pontiac brand return to its muscle car roots, it turned to its Australian subsidiary, Holden, to spur a comeback. The result is the new Pontiac G8.

Based on GM's Zeta platform, the G8 is mechanically similar to the Aussie Commodore. It's a large rear-drive sedan, something that hasn't been a part of the Pontiac lineup since the 1980s. And unlike a previous Pontiac-badged down-under import, the unsuccessfully resurrected GTO, the G8 was designed from the ground up with American customers and roads in mind. Particularly in V8-powered GT trim, the spacious and sporting G8 is one of the most compelling sedans at its price point.

Current Pontiac G8

The Pontiac G8 is available in three trim levels distinguished by powertrain. The base G8 comes with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 256 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. The midlevel GT has a 6.0-liter V8 packing 361 hp and 385 lb-ft. The high-performance GXP boasts a detuned version of the Corvette's 6.2-liter V8 that generates 402 hp and 402 lb-ft. The base G8 comes with a five-speed automatic, while the GT gets a six-speed automatic and the GXP has either a six-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual.

The Pontiac G8 comes well-equipped. Standard features include 18-inch wheels, power front seats, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a seven-speaker CD sound system with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The GT adds the 6.0-liter V8 engine, a limited-slip differential, dual-zone automatic climate control and a premium sound system with a six-CD changer. The GXP boasts the larger V8 as well as a unique front fascia, an upgraded sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels. Options include leather upholstery (available in two-tone colors), heated front seats, a sunroof and, for the GT, 19-inch wheels.

Unlike muscle cars of the past, there's more to the Pontiac G8 than just its engine. The ride tends to be on the firm side, yet it soaks up road imperfections very well and strikes an excellent balance between comfort and handling ability. Many have compared it to a BMW in driving feel. While it's impossible to overlook the G8's significant size and weight, this Pontiac handles very well for a full-size car, yet manages to provide exceedingly comfortable transportation for its passengers.

Inside, this is a cabin clearly built by a GM division that doesn't have access to the North American parts bin. Materials are reasonably high-quality and the overall layout is reminiscent of Audi's products, if not their equivalent in build quality. However, a navigation system is unavailable.

Overall, this Pontiac performs like a muscle car but rides and handles like a European sport sedan. For the shopper who needs a roomy and affordable car that promises plenty of driving excitement, the Pontiac G8 is worth a very close look.

Used Pontiac G8 Models

The G8 debuted for the 2008 model year with only two trim levels -- base and GT. Notably, these first-year cars had goofy-looking battery and oil gauges and weren't available with satellite radio. Both issues were fixed for the following year.

SELECT A SPECIFIC PONTIAC G8 MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.