TheCarConnection.com's car experts read all the competitive reviews on the new Pontiac G8 sedan to produce this conclusive review, and to give enthusiastic approval of the new G8. TheCarConnection.com also drove the car to be able to give you an expert opinion on the vehicle, and to help you figure out the truth where other car reviews might differ.
Likes:
- Spacious interior
- Well-balanced steering and ride
- Handsome profile
- Comfortable rear seat.
Dislikes:
- Lack of Bluetooth and navigation system
- No available all-wheel drive
- Some minor controls placed in awkward spots.
Pontiac's G8 sedan is a completely new vehicle that shares its underpinnings with an Australian-market car sold by General Motors as the Holden Commodore. The G8 is rear-wheel drive, and sports powerful 256-horsepower V-6 and 361-hp V-8 engines coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. (A 402-hp version arrives next year as the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP, and comes with an available manual transmission.)
The G8 instantly returns Pontiac to the top tier of performance-oriented big sedans. Chrysler had the category all to itself among American makes--and the G8 matches the likes of the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 on all points, with a more sophisticated look and a more refined performance package. The G8 is exceptionally roomy in front and in its rear seat, and has a large trunk. Though there's no all-wheel-drive option, its secure and stable handling is reassuring. And its look is distinctive, though not overly aggressive. Fuel economy isn't exactly a letdown for this type of car, but it's not stellar.
The Bottom Line:
Pontiac's come from nowhere in the large-sedan segment to build a class-leading four-door, with only a few minor quibbles.
Other Choices:
If you like the 2008 Pontiac G8, also consider:
Dodge Charger
Chrysler 300
Ford Taurus
Reason why
Among large sedans, the G8's chief rival is the Dodge Charger, which is a little ballsier in styling, but also a little less refined inside and out. The Charger and the similar but more glamorous Chrysler 300 offer optional all-wheel drive, though. The Ford Taurus is just as large as its competitors, but it's more clearly geared to an older, more conservative crowd--and it's front-wheel drive (with an all-wheel-drive option).
Buying Tip:
The 2008 Pontiac G8 comes in V-6 and V-8 versions--with one V-8 generating Corvette-style horsepower. The better deals in the first year will be for V-6 cars, as enthusiasts scramble in eBay auctions to get the boy-racer versions. The base car, with 256 hp and plenty of standard equipment, is a strong value regardless.
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Review was originally published at TheCarConnection.com
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