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2009 Pontiac Solstice Features Review

February 22, 2009

FEATURES | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Club Sport Package ... includes firmer suspension tuning and silver-painted wheels
Edmunds

A wireless cell phone link is newly available
Consumer Guide

CD stereo with XM Satellite Radio
Cars.com

The 2009 Pontiac Solstice is a budget sportscar, with an emphasis on budget. While the Pontiac Solstice offers a low starting MSRP for its base trim, it also has little in the way of standard features to drool over.

Standard features for the 2009 Pontiac Solstice don't vary greatly between the base and GXP trims, and neither offers a long list of high-tech amenities. ConsumerGuide states that the base Pontiac Solstice includes "OnStar assistance" and an "AM/FM/CD/MP3 player [with] digital-media player connection," while Edmunds points out that "a trip computer and an audio system with satellite radio" are also standard. Edmunds adds that "roadsters have a manual soft top with an acoustic headliner," and those springing for the Pontiac Solstice GXP will get "Bluetooth, cruise control, full power accessories, keyless entry, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel," on top of the base amenities, reports Edmunds.

For those disappointed in the standard features offerings on the 2009 Pontiac Solstice, reviews read by TheCarConnection.com don't hold out much hope for available options. Kelley Blue Book says that "there are four logically-grouped packages," most of which simply add the GXP's standard features to the base model of the Pontiac Solstice. However, Kelley Blue Book also points out that an available Club Sport Package "features a single CD stereo and performance suspension while deleting OnStar, XM radio and all other options save for a rear spoiler" in an effort to save weight. Edmunds reviewers report that available options "on both trims are air-conditioning, leather seating, an upgraded audio system with a six-CD changer, sport pedals and the Club Sport Package," while the "Premium Package adds leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering-wheel-mounted controls." Other stand-alone options, according to ConsumerGuide, include a "Monsoon sound system" and floor mats for the base model.

Conclusion

The 2009 Pontiac Solstice forgoes luxury in the name of offering a discount thrill machine.

FEATURES | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:Club Sport Package ... includes firmer suspension tuning and silver-painted wheelsEdmundsA wireless cell phone link is newly availableConsumer GuideCD stereo with XM Satellite RadioCars.com The 2009 Pontiac Solstice is a budget sportscar, with an emphasis on budget. While the Pontiac Solstice offers a low starting MSRP for its base trim, it also has little in the way of standard features to drool over. Standard features for the 2009 Pontiac Solstice don't vary greatly between the base and GXP trims, and neither offers a long list of high-tech amenities. ConsumerGuide states that the base Pontiac Solstice includes "OnStar assistance" and an "AM/FM/CD/MP3 player [with] digital-media player connection," while Edmunds points out that "a trip computer and an audio system with satellite radio" are also standard. Edmunds adds that "roadsters have a manual soft top with an acoustic headliner," and those springing for the Pontiac Solstice GXP will get "Bluetooth, cruise control, full power accessories, keyless entry, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel," on top of the base amenities, reports Edmunds. For those disappointed in the standard features offerings on the 2009 Pontiac Solstice, reviews read by TheCarConnection.com don't hold out much hope for available options. Kelley Blue Book says that "there are four logically-grouped packages," most of which simply add the GXP's standard features to the base model of the Pontiac Solstice. However, Kelley Blue Book also points out that an available Club Sport Package "features a single CD stereo and performance suspension while deleting OnStar, XM radio and all other options save for a rear spoiler" in an effort to save weight. Edmunds reviewers report that available options "on both trims are air-conditioning, leather seating, an upgraded audio system with a six-CD changer, sport pedals and the Club Sport Package," while the "Premium Package adds leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering-wheel-mounted controls." Other stand-alone options, according to ConsumerGuide, include a "Monsoon sound system" and floor mats for the base model. ConclusionThe 2009 Pontiac Solstice forgoes luxury in the name of offering a discount thrill machine. 2009 PONTIAC SOLSTICE STYLING | [8 out of 10] Edmunds: "This curvaceous roadster still commands looks from fellow drivers" Road and Track: "A cockpit defined—and constricted—by its sweeping center console" Autoblog: "Decidedly behind the curve" As if last year's Pontiac Solstice ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The Honda S2000 may be the closest competitor to the Solstice GXP; it brings an incredibly rev-happy 237-horsepower, 2.2-liter VTEC four-cylinder and six-speed manual. Though it doesn't match the GXP for straight-line performance, it beats it for the tactile experience. The Miata covers the basics with a certain tactile charm that the Solstice lacks; the shift action, very direct steering feel, and sound of the modest engine powering the balanced, lightweight roadster is still unbeatable. The torquey Nissan 350Z Roadster is also worth a look for those who seek V-6 grunt above all else. Compared to the Solstice, the mechanically identical Saturn Sky includes more standard features at a higher price, although styling is quite different—and perhaps superior—on the Sky.

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See the Pontiac Solstice in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006

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