2006 Pontiac Grand Prix Review
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix Review
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Used Grand Prix for sale
Appraise This CarPontiac Grand Prix model years
Pontiac Grand Prix types
- Sedan
- GXP
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Strong V8 and supercharged V6, easy-to-use controls, big trunk, comfortable ride.
Cons
- Excessive torque steer on GXP model, numb steering, below-average build and materials quality, tight backseat, noisy V6s, not enough storage or cupholders.
What’s new
New for 2006 is a Special Edition package, which features ground effects, body-color grille, bright exhaust tips and new 17-inch alloys. Inside this Pontiac car, the center console and various trim pieces have been revised. Last year's GTP is now the GT.
Edmunds says
It may be fast in GT and GXP form, but the 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix is too rough around the edges to compete with more refined and better-performing cars like the Charger and Altima.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 4dr Sedan (3.8L 6cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.52 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$196/mo for Grand Prix Base
Grand Prix Base
vs
$184/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Vehicle overview
Although the Accord and Camry are the obvious choices when it's time to buy a midpriced sedan, not every shopper wants one with an import label. Until recently, choosing a domestic sedan often meant giving up the high levels of refinement and overall quality upon which the Japanese brands have built their reputation. But recent success stories like the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Ford Fusion have proven that American manufacturers can step up to the plate in this regard. Pontiac targets would-be import buyers with its Grand Prix as well, and indeed the current generation of this midsize sedan provides a great deal more refinement than ever before. Redesigned for '04, the front-wheel-drive Pontiac Grand Prix benefited from stronger, more refined engines; fine-tuned ride and handling characteristics; and a friendlier cockpit design with large gauges and, for the most part, simple controls. Unfortunately, the quality of the materials and craftsmanship still leaves room for improvement.
A pair of powerful V6s and one V8 engine are offered in the Pontiac Grand Prix, offering 200 (base), 260 horsepower (GT) or 303 hp (GXP). Certainly the Grand Prix GT and GXP have enough power to make everyday driving entertaining but only so long as you limit your bursts of speed to straight-line acceleration. With a V8 weighing down its front end, the GXP model is anything but nimble around turns and exhibits torque steer when accelerating heavily from a standstill.. The GT is better balanced, but compared to competitors its steering is numb. To add insult to injury, the 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix isn't especially well suited for family use, either. It has a smooth highway ride, but its backseat is cramped and there's just no place to put family-oriented detritus like juice boxes or toys. While the Grand Prix's aggressive styling may appeal to buyers looking for an edgier alternative to the mild-mannered Accord, we think most people will find the similarly priced, rear-drive Charger much more satisfying. If front-wheel drive is a must, then the Altima SE-R is worth a look.
Performance & mpg
A pair of 3.8-liter V6s and a 5.3-liter V8 serves duty in the front-wheel-drive Grand Prix. In the base model, the standard 3800 Series III V6 makes 200 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The GT has a supercharged version rated for 260 ponies and 280 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the 5.3-liter V8 in the GXP makes a healthy 303 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque. All engines come with a four-speed automatic transmission; the GXP's has an automanual mode.
Safety
Antilock brakes and traction control are optional on the base and standard on the GT and GXP. Stability control, dubbed StabiliTrak Sport, is standard on the GXP. Front and rear side curtain airbags are optional on all models. In government crash tests, the Pontiac Grand Prix earned three out of five stars for side impacts (front and rear), but the car tested did not have side curtain airbags. Frontal crash tests resulted in a three-star rating for driver protection and four stars for the passenger. In IIHS frontal-offset testing, the Grand Prix was named a "Best Pick."
Driving
Even the base engine furnishes brisk response at low- and midrange speeds, while the supercharged GT keeps up with V6 versions of the Accord and Altima. Although we certainly enjoy the rush of the stout V8 in the GXP, the front wheels have a hard time of handling its power. Torque steer is noticeable and the car feels nose-heavy during spirited cornering. Daily driving in the 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix is just fine but it's not really that much fun to drive in a sporting manner due to its plain-Jane four-speed automatic and numb steering feel.
Interior
Inside the Grand Prix, there's a definite cockpit theme, as the center stack curves to meet the driver and the gauges and displays are all in red. Control layouts are simple and intuitive, even the trip computer. The front seats are broad and comfortable, though taller adults may find headroom limited. The backseat is cramped, with a low bench and tight foot room making it a last resort for adults. At least there's plenty of cargo space, thanks to a 16-cubic-foot trunk.
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix models
The Pontiac Grand Prix is available as a four-door sedan in one of three trim levels -- Base, GT and GXP. The base model comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, OnStar, a CD player, cruise control, air conditioning, keyless entry and power windows and mirrors. The GT adds 17-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, a remote vehicle starter and a trip computer. A Special Edition package, which features ground effects, body color grille, bright exhaust tips and unique 17-inch alloys, is optional. The GXP includes firmer suspension tuning, performance tires, an enthusiast-oriented stability control system, upgraded steering, a head-up display, unique trim and 18-inch alloys. A Premium Package, with leather seating and automatic dual-zone climate control, is also available on the Pontiac car.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix.
5 star(78%)
4 star(16%)
3 star(6%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
157 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
190,000 Miles Later......
rose38478, 06/17/2013
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 4dr Sedan (3.8L 6cyl 4A)
Yes, what it said. I put 190,000+ miles on my Pontiac. Bought it 4.5 years ago, just traded it and I miss it horribly. No mechanical trouble except basic maintenance and 1 thermostat. Paint stood up well to the test of time. Only thing interior wise is my dashboard cracked a little way up by the window. Other than that, stayed great. Seats didn't tear, rug didn't wear out. The engine … gave you enough power to get where you needed to go quickly. I wish Pontiac had stuck around. I would have bought another.
4.75 out of 5 stars
2 year Evaluation
06gp, 12/20/2011
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 4dr Sedan (3.8L 6cyl 4A)
Bought my 06 Grand Prix back in 2009 and it has served me well. the 3.8L is very reliable, powerfull, and sounds amazing once the hammer is dropped. The ride is very comfortable, no complaints there. The exterior is gorgeus, sexy if I may say. Interior material quality: The cheap plastics, thanks GM, is ok but very difficult to shine up and keep good. In the future I will customize the … interior with Blk leather and dark wood trim so that will be my solution. Fuel economy is great highway wise (28mpg), the city is satisfactory if you don't speed and suddenly accelerate. Repairs: Just a alternator and a upcoming brake job. 18+car= havoc. Overall I am very impressed with my Pontiac and love it.
4.88 out of 5 stars
2006 Grand Prix GT Supercharged
dcole08, 04/14/2013
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix GT 4dr Sedan (3.8L 6cyl S/C 4A)
I have had this car for over 2 years now, and I must say I love it. I honestly don't know how I stumbled upon it because I was initially looking for either a Maxima, or a Charger. Somehow I stumbled upon this car and it is awesome. It looks awesome and turns heads all of the time because it is different. Mine (all black with black interior) is rare where I am and I haven't seen one like … it around. People love riding in it, and my wife loves to drive it. It's very comfortable to drive, and I have never had any issues with it. The 3800 motor in it is a legend in the car world, and mechanics salivate when they see the 3800 v6 it wrapped with headers and a supercharger.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Great Automobile
D. Goodrode, 07/21/2006
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 4dr Sedan (3.8L 6cyl 4A)
Just purchased it, love it, sharp looking in the Stelth Gray, quiet, comfortable, solid, and handles good on twisty roads. Only 200 horses but more than enough, keeps up with all but the quickest sedans costing twice as much. Looks of a European sedan, comes standard with tons of gadgets. The electronics can be customized to your own taste. This is a classy automobile. Many creature … comforts and fold down rear seats for extra long items. Many 2006 improvements on the engine and trans. The 3.8 V6 has tons of torque coupled with the medium duty (not light) 4L65-E trans is a great combo. No I'm not a dealer, I'm the son of a son of a mechanic and appreciate a well built automobile.
2006 Grand Prix Highlights
Sedan
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $21,330 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $196/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Grand Prix include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalMarginal
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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