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2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Bottom Line

November 7, 2008

By Bengt Halvorson's avatar Bengt Halvorson, EditorBengt Halvorson

As the experts at TheCarConnection.com prepared this exhaustive review of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, they included a wide range of critical voices and review sources. TheCarConnection.com’s editors have also driven the Pontiac Grand Prix and include their own impressions where useful.

Likes:

  • Smooth, composed ride
  • Spacious backseat
  • Thrilling acceleration in the GXP

Dislikes:

  • Plasticky, dated interior design
  • Torque steer hampers handling with the V-8
  • Unimpressive safety
  • Side airbags aren’t standard

Buying Tips:


The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix is being replaced, mid-model year, by the rear-wheel-drive G8, a sport sedan that isn’t as spacious or as practical but strikes up a new rivalry with some well-known European sport sedans. That said, if the Grand Prix still sounds appealing, you should be able to get a very good deal on the last models.

The mid-size Grand Prix is one of the few “old” models in Pontiac’s almost all-new lineup and is basically a carryover for 2008. The Grand Prix shares its front-drive platform with the Buick LaCrosse, and its former coupe body style is no more, leaving only the sedan.

Two models of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix remain, with the former middle GT model now discontinued. In its standard form, the Grand Prix is powered by a 200-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine. A four-speed automatic transmission is the sole transmission. The GXP model comes with a potent 5.3-liter V-8 that generates 303 horsepower. This engine includes Active Fuel Management Technology, which enables it to sip up to 12 percent less fuel by deactivating half of the engine’s cylinders when they’re not needed, such as at cruising speeds. The four-speed automatic transmission used with the GXP is sport-calibrated and allows aggressive manual gear changes via Formula One racing-style “TAPShift” controls on the steering wheel. The GXP also has a firm-riding sport-tuned suspension, with stability control included. GM promises the GXP can run to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.

The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix was last substantially revised for the 2004 model year, with greatly improved handling and performance, along with a sleeker outside appearance that did away with the much-maligned ribbed body cladding along the lower portion of the doors. Though the Grand Prix’s sleek exterior still looks quite contemporary, its instrument panel in particular has a chunky appearance with lots of unappealing plastic surfaces and appears quite dated—though it’s angled usefully toward the driver.

Otherwise, the Grand Prix’s interior is very roomy and functional, with 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks and rear doors that open 82 degrees. The trunk opens wide, and a low loading height requires little lifting. The front passenger’s seatback also folds flat to accommodate especially long items. Some will find the driving position in the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix a little too low and reclined, and though headroom is a little tight in back, few will complain about the generous backseat legroom.

The base model of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix comes with many popular conveniences, such as cruise control, power accessories, keyless entry, a driver’s power seat, and a six-speaker CD audio system. In addition to the performance gear, the GXP adds remote start, steering-wheel audio controls, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, a trip computer, and a Head-Up Display that projects gauge information onto the windshield. Noteworthy options include a nine-speaker Monsoon audio system and a sunroof.

Front side airbags and side curtain airbags, which are standard in most other vehicles of its type, are optional in the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. Anti-lock brakes are standard across the line, and GM’s Stabilitrak Sport electronic stability control is standard only on the GXP. Those especially concerned about occupant safety should steer away from the Grand Prix, though. Even if its accident avoidance ability is superior to that of many trucks and SUVs, it gets especially worrisome "marginal" ratings from the IIHS in side-impact protection and "poor" in rear impact, along with three out of five stars from the federal government in side impact.

Other Choices:

If you like the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, also consider:

Reason Why:

The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix was very nearly made redundant several years ago with the introduction of the G6 sedan, which is almost as roomy inside. Its closest rival may be the Nissan Maxima, which offers gutsy V-6 performance and front-wheel drive; the current Maxima, however, doesn’t feel tremendously sporty due to its CVT and softer tuning than in previous iterations, though its interior is very attractive. The Ford Taurus isn’t at all fashionable, but it’s extremely spacious, rides well, and has ample power from the 3.5-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic; the Taurus is also one of the safest cars available. Other types of buyers might better appreciate the Dodge Charger, which comes in V-6 and V-8 variants with rear- or all-wheel drive. But the Charger doesn’t ride quite as well as these other rivals, and its backseat is smaller.

The Bottom Line:

The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix is roomy, comfortable, and quite enjoyable to drive, but it feels dated and is lacking in the details.

As the experts at TheCarConnection.com prepared this exhaustive review of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, they included a wide range of critical voices and review sources. TheCarConnection.com’s editors have also driven the Pontiac Grand Prix and include their own impressions where useful. Likes:Smooth, composed rideSpacious backseatThrilling acceleration in the GXPDislikes:Plasticky, dated interior designTorque steer hampers handling with the V-8Unimpressive safetySide airbags aren’t standardBuying Tips: The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix is being replaced, mid-model year, by the rear-wheel-drive G8, a sport sedan that isn’t as spacious or as practical but strikes up a new rivalry with some well-known European sport sedans. That said, if the Grand Prix still sounds appealing, you should be able to get a very good deal on the last models. The mid-size Grand Prix is one of the few “old” models in Pontiac’s almost all-new lineup and is basically a carryover for 2008. The Grand Prix shares its front-drive platform with the Buick LaCrosse, and its former coupe body style is no more, leaving only the sedan. Two models of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix remain, with the former middle GT model now discontinued. In its standard form, the Grand Prix is powered by a 200-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine. A four-speed automatic transmission is the sole transmission. The GXP model comes with a potent 5.3-liter V-8 that generates 303 horsepower. This engine includes Active Fuel Management Technology, which enables it to sip up to 12 percent less fuel by deactivating half of the engine’s cylinders when they’re not needed, such as at cruising speeds. The four-speed automatic transmission used with the GXP is sport-calibrated and allows aggressive manual gear changes via Formula One racing-style “TAPShift” controls on the steering wheel. The GXP also has a firm-riding sport-tuned suspension, with stability control included. GM promises the GXP can run to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix was last substantially revised for the 2004 model year, with greatly improved handling and performance, along with a sleeker outside appearance that did away with the much-maligned ribbed body cladding along the lower portion of the doors. Though the Grand Prix’s sleek exterior still looks quite contemporary, its instrument panel in particular has a chunky appearance with lots of unappealing plastic surfaces and appears quite dated—though it’s angled usefully toward the driver. Otherwise, the Grand Prix’s interior is very roomy and functional, with 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks and rear doors that open 82 degrees. The trunk opens wide, and a low loading height requires little lifting. The front passenger’s seatback also folds flat to accommodate especially long items. Some will find the driving position in the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix a little too low and reclined, and though headroom is a little tight in back, few will complain about the generous backseat legroom. The base model of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix comes with many popular conveniences, such as cruise control, power accessories, keyless entry, a driver’s power seat, and a six-speaker CD audio system. In addition to the performance gear, the GXP adds remote start, steering-wheel audio controls, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, a trip computer, and a Head-Up Display that projects gauge information onto the windshield. Noteworthy options include a nine-speaker Monsoon audio system and a sunroof. Front side airbags and side curtain airbags, which are standard in most other vehicles of its type, are optional in the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. Anti-lock brakes are standard across the line, and GM’s Stabilitrak Sport electronic stability control is standard only on the GXP. Those especially concerned about occupant safety should steer away from the Grand Prix, though. Even if its accident avoidance ability is superior to that of many trucks and SUVs, it gets especially worrisome "marginal" ratings from the IIHS in side-impact protection and "poor" in rear impact, along with three out of five stars from the federal government in side impact. Other Choices:If you like the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, also consider:Dodge ChargerFord TaurusNissan MaximaReason Why:The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix was very nearly made redundant several years ago with the introduction of the G6 sedan, which is almost as roomy inside. Its closest rival may be the Nissan Maxima, which offers gutsy V-6 performance and front-wheel drive; the current Maxima, however, doesn’t feel tremendously sporty due to its CVT and softer tuning than in previous iterations, though its interior is very attractive. The Ford Taurus isn’t at all fashionable, but it’s extremely spacious, rides well, and has ample power from the 3.5-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic; the Taurus is also one of the safest cars available. Other types of buyers might better appreciate the Dodge Charger, which comes in V-6 and V-8 variants with rear- or all-wheel drive. But the Charger doesn’t ride quite as well as these other rivals, and its backseat is smaller. The Bottom Line:The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix is roomy, comfortable, and quite enjoyable to drive, but it feels dated and is lacking in the details. As the experts at TheCarConnection.com prepared this exhaustive review of the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, they included a wide range of critical voices and review sources. TheCarConnection.com’s editors have also driven the Pontiac Grand Prix and include their own impressions where useful. ...

Other Choices:

The 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix was very nearly made redundant several years ago with the introduction of the G6 sedan, which is almost as roomy inside. Its closest rival may be the Nissan Maxima, which offers gutsy V-6 performance and front-wheel drive; the current Maxima, however, doesn’t feel tremendously sporty due to its CVT and softer tuning than in previous iterations, though its interior is very attractive. The Ford Taurus isn’t at all fashionable, but it’s extremely spacious, rides well, and has ample power from the 3.5-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic; the Taurus is also one of the safest cars available. Other types of buyers might better appreciate the Dodge Charger, which comes in V-6 and V-8 variants with rear- or all-wheel drive. But the Charger doesn’t ride quite as well as these other rivals, and its backseat is smaller.

Next Steps:

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix

Check Financing Rates

for the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix near you

See the Pontiac Grand Prix in Other Years:

2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997

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