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2000 Pontiac Grand Am Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2000 Pontiac Grand Am Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
2000 Pontiac Grand Am Review
Pontiac's sales champ and America's best-selling compact car sails into 2000 with new colors, standard rear child-seat anchors, and an available 5-speed manual transmission as its principal changes. Back from mid-1999 are Grand Am's "Solid" option packages that deliver popular extra-cost items at special reduced prices.
Coupes and sedans are offered in ascending levels of trim called SE, SE1, SE2, and sportier GT and GT1. A 4-cylinder engine remains standard for SE and SE1, with a 3.4-liter V6 optional for SE1 and standard elsewhere. The V6 makes 175 horsepower in GTs, 170 in SEs. Both engines meet low-emission-vehicle (LEV) standards. The 4-cylinder teams with a standard Getrag 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic is now optional instead of standard. The V6 comes only with automatic. Antilock brakes and traction control remain standard for all models. Oldsmobile's Alero shares the Grand Am's chassis and powertrains, but targets a slightly more upscale, import-oriented clientele.
Coupes and sedans are offered in ascending levels of trim called SE, SE1, SE2, and sportier GT and GT1. A 4-cylinder engine remains standard for SE and SE1, with a 3.4-liter V6 optional for SE1 and standard elsewhere. The V6 makes 175 horsepower in GTs, 170 in SEs. Both engines meet low-emission-vehicle (LEV) standards. The 4-cylinder teams with a standard Getrag 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic is now optional instead of standard. The V6 comes only with automatic. Antilock brakes and traction control remain standard for all models. Oldsmobile's Alero shares the Grand Am's chassis and powertrains, but targets a slightly more upscale, import-oriented clientele.
Competition
Mazda's 626 gets the nod as the Best Buy in this class. Not because it's the fastest or roomiest, but because it is the best all-around performer. Ranging in price from $18,000 to $22,000 depending on equipment and engine choice, the 626 offers room for four large adults, a comfortable but sporty ride, above average acceleration, and good fuel economy.
Recommended choices include the sporty Mitsubishi Galant, the vanilla Nissan Altima, the powerful Oldsmobile Alero, and the refined Volkswagen Passat.
Hyundai's Sonata is our Budget Buy here. Though it's just an average performer on the road, its below average price and quality construction help it stand out. Chrysler's new PT Cruiser is the wildcard in this segment. Not really a sport-utility or minivan, the PT has been well-received by our staff. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars.
Recommended choices include the sporty Mitsubishi Galant, the vanilla Nissan Altima, the powerful Oldsmobile Alero, and the refined Volkswagen Passat.
Hyundai's Sonata is our Budget Buy here. Though it's just an average performer on the road, its below average price and quality construction help it stand out. Chrysler's new PT Cruiser is the wildcard in this segment. Not really a sport-utility or minivan, the PT has been well-received by our staff. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars.
News
Despite dubious styling in the eyes of many automotive critics, Grand Am remains very popular with consumers, scoring a 30-percent year-to-year sales gain in calendar 1999. Industry tipsters say Pontiac's best seller will get a cosmetic freshening for 2002, then be redesigned for 2004 on General Motors' new Episilon platform, to be shared with the Chevy Malibu, Oldsmobile Alero and a second-generation Saturn L-Series. The '04 Grand Am will reportedly be wider but little longer than the current model and have a roomier interior, but that's about all anyone knows right now.
GM is busy replacing old engines with more refined and efficient new designs in some of its higher-volume products. Among the most important of these is the 2.2-liter "L850" 4-cylinder introduced with the Saturn L-Series, developed as a "global" powerplant for a variety of cars both here and abroad. We think that will include Grand Am, and we look for the L850 to supersede the elderly 2.4-liter as base power in the next year or two.
GM is busy replacing old engines with more refined and efficient new designs in some of its higher-volume products. Among the most important of these is the 2.2-liter "L850" 4-cylinder introduced with the Saturn L-Series, developed as a "global" powerplant for a variety of cars both here and abroad. We think that will include Grand Am, and we look for the L850 to supersede the elderly 2.4-liter as base power in the next year or two.
2000 Pontiac Grand Am Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (V6) | Engine noise (4-cylinder) |
| Steering/handling | Ride |
| Radio controls | |
| Rear-seat entry/exit (2-door) | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The 4-cylinder is adequate; the V6 is quicker around town, but far from exciting.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 6 | 4.7 |
The 4-cylinder is adequate; the V6 is quicker around town, but far from exciting.
Fuel Economy
Our SE2 sedan averaged 19.4-21.5 mpg. Expect 4-cylinder models to be only slightly thriftier.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5.4 |
Our SE2 sedan averaged 19.4-21.5 mpg. Expect 4-cylinder models to be only slightly thriftier.
Ride Quality
Choppy over sharp ridges and broken pavement, but Grand Am is stable at speed and resists wallowing.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 5 |
Choppy over sharp ridges and broken pavement, but Grand Am is stable at speed and resists wallowing.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Not very precise, but turn-in is reasonably quick, there's good grip and balance in corners, and the steering is firm.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 6 | 5 |
Not very precise, but turn-in is reasonably quick, there's good grip and balance in corners, and the steering is firm.
Quietness
Wind rush is low, but the sporty exhaust note grows tiresome, and tires roar and "clop" loudly over tar strips.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 5 |
Wind rush is low, but the sporty exhaust note grows tiresome, and tires roar and "clop" loudly over tar strips.
Controls
Most controls are convenient, though the small, poorly marked audio switches are hard to operate. Gauges are deeply recessed and look cluttered.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 6 |
Most controls are convenient, though the small, poorly marked audio switches are hard to operate. Gauges are deeply recessed and look cluttered.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Leg room is generous and head room is good, even with the optional sunroof.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Leg room is generous and head room is good, even with the optional sunroof.
Room/Comfort (rear)
More room in the sedan than most compacts. The coupe is slightly narrower, has less head room, and predictably trickier entry/exit.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 4.1 |
More room in the sedan than most compacts. The coupe is slightly narrower, has less head room, and predictably trickier entry/exit.
Cargo Room
Spacious trunk, but the opening is small and liftover is high.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Spacious trunk, but the opening is small and liftover is high.
Value within Class
Grand Am has "expressive" styling, but we wish similar resources had been spent on its engineering and construction. Prices are very competitive, but unless sporty looks are your top priority in a family compact, you'd be well advised to scout the competition.
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 5.3 |
Grand Am has "expressive" styling, but we wish similar resources had been spent on its engineering and construction. Prices are very competitive, but unless sporty looks are your top priority in a family compact, you'd be well advised to scout the competition.
Total Score
| SE1 cpe, I4 auto. | GT1 sdn | Class Average |
| 42 | 47 | 50.2 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 38 | |
| Average Score | 50 | |
| High Score | 65 |
2000 Pontiac Grand Am Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/05/2000
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| SE 2-door coupe | $16,090 | $14,722 | $560 |
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| SE 4-door sedan | $16,390 | $14,997 | $560 |
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| SE1 2-door coupe | $17,300 | $15,830 | $560 |
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| SE1 4-door sedan | $17,600 | $16,104 | $560 |
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| SE2 2-door coupe | $19,630 | $17,961 | $560 |
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| SE2 4-door sedan | $19,930 | $18,236 | $560 |
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| GT 2-door coupe | $19,720 | $18,044 | $560 |
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| GT 4-door sedan | $20,020 | $18,318 | $560 |
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| GT1 2-door coupe | $21,220 | $19,416 | $560 |
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| GT1 4-door sedan | $21,520 | $19,691 | $560 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
SE
Powertrain
2.4-liter dohc 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth reclining front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, AM/FM/cassette, power door locks, remote fuel door and decklid release, variable intermittent wipers, rear defogger, tachometer, illuminated entry, automatic headlights, visor mirrors, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Dual outside mirrors, theft-deterrent system, fog lights, tinted glass, 215/60R15 tires, wheel covers.
SE1 adds to SE:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power mirrors, power windows, cruise control, 4-way manual driver seat w/power height adjustment, split folding rear seat.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alloy wheels.
SE2 adds to SE1:
Powertrain
3.4-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Variable-assist power steering, remote keyless entry, Sport Interior Group (upgraded upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, driver seat manual lumbar adjustment, seatback pockets, map lights, cargo net), AM/FM/CD player, High Performance sound system w/six speakers, steering-wheel radio controls.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
225/50R16 tires.
GT adds to SE2:
Safety
4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
AM/FM/cassette.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, High Performance sound system w/six speakers, steerin.
Tire inflation monitor, rear spoiler, upgraded suspension.
GT1 adds to GT:
Comfort and Convenience Features
6-way power driver seat, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD player, High Performance sound system w/six speakers, steering wheel radio controls.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Solid Style Appearance Pkg.
|
||
|
SE1
|
$1,695
|
$1,508
|
|
Remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD player, rear spoiler. NA with 3.4-liter V6 engine.
|
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|
Solid Sun Appearance Pkg.
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GT
|
$1,915
|
$1,704
|
|
Remote keyless entry, power sunroof, chrome alloy wheels.
|
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|
Solid Sound Appearance Pkg.
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GT1
|
$1,315
|
$1,171
|
|
Leather upholstery, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, chrome alloy wheels.
|
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Powertrain |
||
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3.4-liter V6 engine
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SE1
|
$655
|
$583
|
|
Includes variable-assist power steering. Requires 4-speed automatic transmission.
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4-speed automatic transmission
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SE, SE1
|
$785
|
$699
|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Power sunroof
|
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SE2, GT
|
$650
|
$579
|
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Power driver seat
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SE2, GT
|
$265
|
$236
|
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Leather upholstery
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SE2, GT, GT1
|
$475
|
$423
|
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AM/FM/CD player w/six speakers
|
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|
SE, SE1, GT
|
$210
|
$187
|
|
AM/FM/CD player w/High Performance sound system
|
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SE, SE1, GT
|
$275
|
$245
|
|
Includes six speakers.
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AM/FM/cassette/CD player
|
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SE, SE1, GT
|
$470
|
$418
|
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SE2, GT1
|
$195
|
$174
|
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Includes High Performance six-speaker sound system.
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Remote keyless entry
|
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SE1, GT
|
$150
|
$134
|
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Cruise control
|
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SE
|
$235
|
$209
|
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
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Rear spoiler
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SE, SE1, SE2
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$195
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$174
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Engine block heater
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GT, GT1, SE, SE1, SE2
|
$20
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$18
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License plate depression cover
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GT, GT1, SE, SE1, SE2
|
$10
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$9
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Alloy wheels
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SE1
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$490
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$436
|
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Chrome alloy wheels
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GT, GT1
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$645
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$574
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2000 Pontiac Grand Am Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Pontiac Grand Am 2-door coupe | Pontiac Grand Am 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.0 | 107.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.3 | 186.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.4 | 70.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.1 | 55.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3066 | 3116 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.6 | 14.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.3 | 14.3 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 38.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.1 | 42.1 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 | 37.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.5 | 35.5 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | ohv V6 | ohv V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.4 /146 | 3.4 /207 | 3.4 /207 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 150 @ 5600 | 170 @ 5200 | 175 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 155 @ 4400 | 195 @ 4000 | 205 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed manual | 22/31 | --/-- | --/-- |
| 4-speed automatic | 22/30 | 20/32 | 20/32 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Pontiac Grand Am 2-door coupe | Pontiac Grand Am 4-door sedan |
| Collision | 3 | 3 |
| Collision (HLDI) | 102 | 93 |
| Front Impact, Driver | NA | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | NA | 4 |
| Injury | 3 | 3 |
| Injury (HLDI) | 87 | 106 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 1 | 3 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 | 3 |
| Theft | 4 | 4 |
| Theft (HLDI) | 57 | 48 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Also in the 2000 Pontiac Grand Am Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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