Used 2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP Consumer Reviews
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The Quiet Storm
hypno1dr, 04/06/2009
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
With cat-like agility and blistering acceleration, I just love my solstice gxp. While driving from San Diego to Las Vegas and staying fairly close to the speed limit (which is difficult) I actually got 33.1 mpg. As far as the manual top, I can pop it down faster than most automatic tops. As far a putting it back up, it takes a little more time, but still, its not that hard and I don't mind. Yes it does have animalistic head turning looks, and yes it gets a lot of attention from the ladies who want to ride with me. Guys if you want a babe-magnet car, with blistering acceleration, and hurricane force winds with top down, this is the beast (i mean car) to have.
Lack of Storage Space? Bunk!
John Bruning, 09/15/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
We've got 3,800 miles on our '08 GXP. It has gone through deserts, an Idaho sand storm, crossed mountains in flash- flood conditions and has shined in every situation. Two rebuttals on criticism: 1.) Some critics say the manual tranny is rough and hard to shift. When broken in at about 3K, it becomes butter-smooth. 2.) No storage space. Bull. You just need to know how to pack. I just took our GXP on a road trip to support a SWAT team's training operation. In the GXP, I had a large camera bag, tripod, large duffel with a week's change of clothes, gun bag, laptop bag, and ten blank-firing pistols, rifles and a shotgun. Plenty of room for all! Treat yourself: buy a GXP!
Solstice for Singles
Terry East, 01/16/2019
updated 01/19/2021
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is a sports car. It's small and fast, holds the road very well and gets above 30mpg most of the time. It is not a family car, it has very little storage either in the trunk (that's where the convertible top folds away) or inside the cabin. But it is fun to drive to work every day and I also take weekend trips in it. There are a lot of small plastic parts on the car that are starting to break. Mostly connectors that hold all the control pieces for the top in place. So after a year, nothing much has changed. Car is still fun to drive and still too small to carry a lot of gear. During this year I've had to replace my top when the back glass came loose. Other than that, no problems noted. Another year gone by and still fun to drive. I love watching the turbo boost gauge spin up! Had to spend close to $2k for a brake control module, brake flush and new battery this year. Had intermittent TSP and ABS lights coming on. It's fixed now and working just fine. Update for 2020: I had Dave at DDM install the brace package and do his tune upgrade. Very easy to work with him. I stayed nearby and the car was ready the next day. What a blast to drive now! And on the way home from that trip I got a error light. I think it was stability. Turned out to be the Steering Wheel Position Sensor.Another $800 in repairs. And in the late summer it started getting higher than usual temps. Had to replace some cooling circuit unit. Almost $1800 there. These cars aren't cheap to have manitenance done on them!
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Solstice GXP love affair.
edgar robertson, 08/03/2009
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car is very well received at any local show and shines, and parades, that I have entered it in. I have never found that lowering the top is a problem. And, I routinely complete the task, in 15 seconds. Raising it is only slightly more time consuming, requiring 28-30 seconds. The power window switches could have been better placed. I would have preferred wind up windows, and side pockets. The cup holders, I really could care less. A bigger trunk, would be a great help for weekend touring. But with some creative packing, two can go on a weekend cruise. I also, do not require A/C in a roadster, and would have appreciated the weight savings, and possible extra horse power. Stereo 1st class!
This is my favorite toy.
ccaffrey, 06/13/2012
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
Ever since I first seen this car in a magazine, I thought that it was the most beautiful car that I had ever seen. Having to always have some kind of muscle car, I didn't buy a Solstice until they put the turbo in it. Then, I installed a K&N filter and finally, I had the GM turbo upgrade kit installed. Now my 2008 GXP will scream. Imagine 300 hp in a go cart. I love everything about it except, no spare, not console, no trunk space and the location of the electric windows. My Solstice is Blazen Oranage and I had tinted windows installed and that little touch really added to the beauty of this little screamer. Garage kept in winter. My every day car is a Toyota 2012 full loaded FJ.
This is what I've wanted a along
Paul, 05/03/2009
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Magazine reviewers have lost the perspective of being an actual owner of the car. This car makes me feel 25 years younger and, for the first time, strangers actually look at what I'm driving. Even had a couple take a picture of it! It handles like better than any car I've EVER driven, accelerates on a touch, and stops evenly and when I want it to. For a big guy like me, it's comfortable and reasonably roomy (for a roadster, that is).
excellent
Wanda, 03/02/2010
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have never had any problems. Always get the oil changed and car maintained at the given times. Fun car and I am sorry the car won't be made now in the following years. Good buy with fun results.
My First Roadster
New Roadster Owner, 05/30/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The GPX is amazing! This is the first roadster that I have owned and I am very happy with my choice. The Solstice is the only car that I have been able to drive comfortably. I am a large person (6 ft 325 lbs) with a very long torso. Other cars I have looked at did not have the hip room and head room that I needed. The Solstice has both. One other car I looked at had so little room, I looked OVER the windshield when seated in the car and I could not close the door because it hit my leg. Other than being very comfortable in the Solstice, it is really fun to drive. Other reviews complain about the meager trunk space, all I can to say is this car was only meant for hauling - well you know!!
A wonderful car
Rojo-GXP, 11/23/2009
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I'm proud to say that I have had my red GXP for almost 2 years and have had 29000 trouble free miles. I have the GMPP 290HP tune, a cold air intake, and Solo Performance catback exhaust and it makes for a VERY quick car (0-60 in 4.9sec) and it's a very sexy ride. Parked beside BMW, Porshe or Mercedes cars and it will ALWAYS generate more nice comments and turned- heads. Sad that 2010 ends the run of this little car. GM got it right at the end. Maybe someone else will continue the line. If you want a great- looking fun-to-drive car with the most bang for the buck, this is it.
2008 Pontiac Solstice
Guitargal, 04/08/2010
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Honestly - I love this little car! I drove a 4-runner for 10 yrs - loved it! Traded for a 08 Cadillac CTS - felt like a grandma. didn't handle like I thought a $40+K car should. My little Solstice is perfect for downtown driving/parking. It handles well - I don't have a turbo - so have to wind the gears - but I'm cool w/that - and it doesn't seem to mind either. I scratch the tires - every time I get a chance! LOL
Had to have one
Rwilson, 06/26/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Got the 08 after seeing it on the road.Did my research first. Back cup holder OK with me. The driver side holder needs improvement. Plastic looks fragile. Airbag light too obvious on dash. Auto trans. works for me, shifts great. Chrome grille would class it up. Would like a removable luggage rack for the back. Could have included door pockets but would sacrifice width. Perhaps a netting to hold odd and ends. Mirrors a little too small. Good sound system with 6 deck CD. My mistake was getting it for my wife. I don't like to beg. Put the SUV away until winter.
Almost there!
AJ, 08/14/2007
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased a red 2008 GXP last weekend. This car has a lot of potential with a few changes. Interior materials are ok but not up to the same standards as the MX-5. Trunk space with the top down is non-existent. The manual gearbox should be improved to minimize the effort required to move between gears. The best way to describe it is clunky. Despite these drawbacks, the car is a lot of fun to drive, gets a lot of attention from admirers and is fast.
Super Solstice
Terry, 01/01/2022
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent and extremely fun car. Highly recommended.
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Lovin' Every Minute of It!!!!!
LimoBarbie, 08/07/2009
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car! 1 sexy machine with a huge "hey BABY" factor. I'm 50 and it makes me feel 16 again! Has every option available, wicked fast even with the auto tranny and I've shown a lot of STUNNED 'Stangs and BMWs tire smoke and tail lights (got the performance upgrade so it's hotter than the reg one) and I had to buy a radar detector because I'm a very bad girl!! Loved my Town Car but after driving TCs for a decade I wanted something HOT-smooth sexy curves and the adorable eager-to-run expression on it's little buck-toothed face makes me smile every time I see it. A real head-turner that folks swear must be an import and blazing speed to keep this old gal happy! I love him SO MUCH!!!!!!
Small Dreams
Jim, 06/30/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This small car always puts a smile on my face. It is a nice addition to my Harley! Fun for two!
Heroin with Wheels
John Bruning, 06/30/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 260 HP Solstice is the most addictive driving experience I've ever had. This car is like mainlining heroin to an auto enthusiast. Quick and agile, but packing plenty of power and kick, the Solstice GXP offers a visceral thrill unseen since the era of the mid-Sixties Corvette roadster. With XM radio, On-Star and enough room in the trunk for an overnight bag, the Solstice is the quintessential date car. I'm courting my wife all over again, and we're having a blast rolling around the back county roads with the top down and a picnic lunch in the trunk. You can't miss with this Pontiac. Test drive it at your peril. You'll find yourself taking one home with no regrets.
Fun & Great Toy
newragtopowner, 07/04/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What a fun car to drive! I don't understand how the "expert" reviewers can rate the Sky higher than the Solstice. They are virtually the same car. This is a roadster & therefore should not be considered a roomy car. It would be great if the top were powered instead of manual but it's not difficult to put up & down. I would stop the car to put up & down anyway.
Mezmerized
Hypnotized, 08/22/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
In 4 weeks I now have 2800 miles. Car is too fun. Did a weekend trip to Laughlin, NV and averaged 31.8 mpg. Noticed many people speed up to see my car, almost as if they are trying to figure out what kind of car it is. Definitely this is a chick magnet. I love all the attention the women give me just for a ride.
Too Hot
Brotzy, 10/03/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is a blast to drive. Everyone stares at you like you are driving a spaceship. Never get tired of driving this car. Stereo is awesome. Speaker behind passenger seat will rock you for sure. I'm 57 and feel 16 when I get behind the wheel. The car is my wife's so I only get to drive on weekends. Should by another for me.
08 Solstice GXP
Mike, 02/22/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall a very well performing car that handles darn near as good as a C6 Corvette, maybe better in some respects. Fun, and the exterior styling cannot be beat. Mechanically a very sound design. Interior needs work as far as convenience, but if you rate it from a driving perspective only, the interior is functional. As soon as you start adding niceties like where to put your spare change, sunglasses, or cell phone... the interior's shortcomings come to light quickly as does the non existent trunk space. The exterior design and performance of this vehicle is what sells.
Head Turner
Fullthrottle, 10/03/2007
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An exceptional vehicle. Beautiful design(best GM has put together in a while)and always gets the looks. Simple with clean lines. Has that classic roadster feel. The car has plenty of pick up and power, always wants to go. (oh that turbo) So easy to spin those tires. Has pretty solid handling. Storage could be an issue for some. Interior is like a cockpit. Clean in design. Cup holder placing is in an odd spot(I dont use the 2 on the back wall. Stereo has great sound, love the mp3 adapter. Seats on the GXP are great, road trips have been really comfortable(Pack light).
I feel 16 again- thanks Pontiac
louis chad, 11/09/2007
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought the GXP on my 60th birthday and it has totally jump started my life. I live in northern Minnesota, but will use this care selectively all winter. You just can't store this one. It will, although be in a slab heated work shop with me. I'll visit the wife on weekends if time permits. Thanks again Pontiac.
this is one sexy little car
gxpowner, 03/15/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i have hardly any regrets in buying this little jewel. there are some little quirks that i will address just because they are aggravating. the engineer that thought to put the radio power knob in the center of the radio where your hand hits it every time u shift into third gear must surely be proud. same goes for the mute/power button radio controls on the steering wheel. their placement turns the radio or sound completely off when hit.side mirrors r way too small. but...this is a head turning car that turns heads...they r just trying to figure out what the colored streak is that just went zooming by....lol
Jims 55 Birthday!
Jim Menefee, 03/27/2008
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife gave it to me for my 55th Birthday. I have owned 5 - 240, 260 and 280 Z-cars. When you reach my age you either get a Harley a Sports Car or an exercise bike. I chose the Solstice... Nothing can touch it ... it's fast, feels like a million dollars and really gets the looks. Could not be more pleased! My other choice was $20K extra on a BMW. This beats the BMW hands down!
I LOVE MY CAR
Robin Carol Rush, 03/17/2018
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Incredible car. I have one of the only turbo locally. I love my car and her name is Prissy. She’s every bit of her name. I bought it with 21,000 miles and she has 39,000 now. White with a black top, she always gets compliments. She is an everyday driver and garage kept. So happy I had the chance to own her.
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Giddy up
Joe , 03/06/2024
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Went to dealership and after driving it I bought it . Handles great ....love the acceleration . Very impressed with the mpg . Had to get water pump replaced at dealer ...the timing chain whined and I took it back . They charged me alot more than the water pump replacement to fix a problem they caused with the timing chain tensioner . They would not take responsibility for the tensioner being tripped during the water pump removal . Other than that the car has performed without a hitch for 150k . Garage kept of course .
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Hot Car But Needs a Chrome Grill
Lisa, 08/04/2007
2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
My previous car was BMW Z4 3.0. So far, I really like the GXP's performance. The exterior is hot! My only beef with the exterior is the black grill -- it looks cheap! Why not keep the same chrome grill as the Solstice? The interior is sleek -- the seats hug you. However, there is no storage space. I can't even find any place to keep my garage door opener. I've noticed that the window controls are in an awkward place -- inevitably, my elbow triggers the windows. The biggest pain is the manual top -- miss the Z4's automatic top. There is no trunk space with the top down. Wish they offered navigation system as option. But can't beat the price and bravo to Pontiac for its cool design!