2008 Pontiac G8 Review
The G8 is a brand-new full-size sedan that is the spiritual successor of both the Bonneville and the Grand Prix. Sticking to Pontiac’s new sporty initiative, the G8 is rear-wheel drive, and is available with a V8 engine.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Pontiac G8 promises to breathe new life into GM’s struggling performance branch. This is no slow, unwieldy Bonneville. The G8 is a classic American muscle car: Big as a tank, with an engine to match, powered by two rear wheels. The G8 delivers on the failed GTO’s promises.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. No problems or recalls have been reported. Based on Pontiac’s past performance, we predict average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Chevrolet Impala LTZ includes leather seats, but has 20 less hp. The Honda Accord EX costs nearly a thousand less and includes a CD changer. The Ford Taurus costs over a thousand less and includes AWD.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Rear-wheel drive
+ Solid handling
+ Aggressive styling
Cons
– Uncomfortable seats
– Poor gas mileage
– Some cheap interior materials
Head-To-Head Competition:
Crash test scores are not yet available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, brake assist, and stability and traction control come standard.
What Others Are Saying:
“Pontiac G8 is a rompin’, stompin’ good time…Assuming G8 escapes first-year bugs and other quality problems, Pontiac appears about to field a winner.” – USA Today
“The racy full-size new Pontiac G8 sedan seems like a combination of a traditional American muscle car and a fast European sports sedan such as the BMW 5-Series…The G8 is the most exciting Pontiac in a long time. The GTO was a sales disappointment, but this shouldn’t be the case with the G8.” – Chicago Sun-Times
“As for road manners, the sports suspension and 18-inch all-season radials are designed for aggressive motoring. Unlike with RWD of old, traction control prevents slipping at takeoff and stability control ensures no dancing in corners-at high or low speeds.” – The Chicago Tribune
Read more about the 2008 Pontiac G8 at the Pontiac manufacturer web site.
