2008 Pontiac G8 in Evansville, WI - $26,763

For the first time in more than 20 years, a rear-wheel drive Pontiac performance sedan will be available for sale in North America. The all-new Pontiac G8 performance sedan is the first North American application of GM’s new global rear-wheel drive architecture.

Manufactured by GM’s Australian subsidiary Holden for Pontiac, the all-new G8 is a large, powerful and responsive sedan that will fill the gap left in the line-up by the discontinuance of the full-size Bonneville and the recent departure of the Grand Prix sedan.

Available in base G8 and G8 GT models, exterior styling for the new Pontiac sedan is brash and modern, with a strong wheels-to-the-corners stance highlighted with bold wheel flares and a rising beltline, blended with a unique Pontiac attitude. Brand-specific design cues include an inset dual port grille, twin hood scoops, projector headlamps, vented front fenders, 18-inch wheels and chrome-tipped dual exhaust. The GT model adds crystal-clear rear lamp elements and chromed quad exhaust tips.

Standard power for the G8 is generated by the division’s 3.6L V6 engine with variable valve timing. Energy is communicated to the pavement through a Hydra-Matic 5L50 five-speed automatic transmission.

The performance-oriented GT variant is equipped with a new fire-breathing 6.0L V8 prime mover joined to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic gearbox and a limited-slip differential. The V8 engine features the fuel-saving Active Fuel Management system which enhances fuel economy by alternating between and four-cylinders.

On the road, the G8 GT equipped with the V8 motor was a flashback to Pontiac’s heyday of power and performance. Strong, powerful and aggressive, the G8’s hardware easily backed up its aggressive looks. Three words quickly come to mind when trying to describe a spin in the new G8 -â€" fast, fast and fast! Handling is solid and inspires driver confidence.

The new G8 boasts an exceptionally strong unitized chassis/body structure, including the use of advanced strength steel in more than 80 percent of its construction. This strong foundation provides smooth ride characteristics and more precise suspension tuning. A unique four-wheel independent suspension system used the strength of the G8’s body structure to enhance the driving experience through optimized steering, handling and driving control.

Inside the cabin, interior room has been maximized, making full use of the G8’s wheelbase and exterior design. Well equipped with safety features and creature comforts, the G8 sedan features a European presentation of displays, controls and switchgear. A two-tier glove compartment and center storage bin highlight some of the vehicle’s functionality.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 114.8; overall length: 196.1; width: 74.8; height: 57.7 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 3.6L V6 -â€" 256 hp at 6,300 rpm and 248 lbs-ft of torque at 2,100 rpm; 6.0L V8 â€"- 361 hp at 5,300 rpm and 385 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic, six-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 3.6L V6 -â€" 17 city/25 hwy.; 6.0L V8 -â€" 15 city/24 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 17.5 cu. ft.

Parts content -â€" country of origin

Final assembly point: Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia.

US/Canada: 20 percent.

Australia: 41 percent.

Mexico: 19 percent.

Engine: Mexico; transmission: USA.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, head curtain side impact airbags, automatic power door locks, automatic headlamp control, OnStar communications system, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, all-speed traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system, daytime running lights, battery saver, remote vehicle start, remote keyless entry, engine immobilizer and tire pressure monitor. GT adds limited slip differential and tire inflation kit.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Pontiac G8 sedan starts from $26,910 for the base G8 and $29,310 for the GT. Destination charges add $685.

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