Review
Introduction
Pontiac’s Grand Prix slots between the mid- and full-size-sedan segments. Redesigned for 2004, the Grand Prix has not aged well in a world of newer and better-designed competition. The front-wheel-drive Grand Prix is available with a fuel-efficient 200-hp, 3.8-liter V-6, and for those seeking more performance, the Grand Prix GXP comes with a 303-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 engine.
The Grand Prix is a big car on the outside but smallish on the inside. The long, 110.5-inch wheelbase and 198.3-inch length make one think there will be a more spacious passenger-swallowing interior. Once inside, however, one finds that the rear seat lacks leg- and headroom. Front-seat space is good, but the plastic-filled interior has the look of melted air-traffic-control consoles and screams cheapness.
Based on the same platform that underpins the Chevrolet Impala and the Buick LaCrosse, the Pontiac attempts to be sportier than its platform-mates. These sportier attributes include firmer suspension tuning, a slightly louder exhaust, and seats with more side bolstering. The V-8–powered GXP version is amusing in a crude way and puts up impressive performance numbers despite a clear lack of refinement.
Major competitors to the Pontiac Grand Prix include the Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300, Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, Hyundai Azera, Mitsubishi Galant, Toyota Avalon, and Volkswagen Passat.
Verdict
The Pontiac Grand Prix plays in one of the most hotly contested segments in the car world and when marked down offers some value. Unfortunately, the dated design, the lack of refinement, the less than stellar driving dynamics, the appalling interior, and the disappointing rear-seat space make it one of the least attractive cars in its segment. The V-8 model is amusing and has real performance, but putting 303 horsepower through the front wheels doesn’t make it a great car, just a quick one.
Click here to read our full review of the Pontiac Grand Prix GT.
Click here to read our full review of the Pontiac Grand Prix GXP.
What’s New for 2008
For 2008, Pontiac is simplifying the Grand Prix lineup by dropping the GT model. The remaining models are the standard Grand Prix and the V-8–powered GXP. Three new colors arrive for 2008: Gold Mist Metallic, Dark Mocha Metallic, and Dark Slate Metallic.
