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2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Pontiac Grand Prix Full Review
7.
8.
2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Review
A 40th-Anniversary package and increased equipment levels mark changes to Pontiac's midsize line for 2002. Grand Prix offers a sedan in base SE trim and sedans and coupes in sportier GT form and in high-performance GTP versions. All have a V6 engine: the SE a 3.1 liter, GTs a 3.8, GTPs a supercharged 3.8. Automatic transmission, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and traction control are standard. General Motors' OnStar assistance system and head-up instrument display are standard on GTP, optional on GT. Offered on GT and GTP models, the 40th Anniversary Package includes a rear spoiler, hood ducts, chrome wheels, Dark Cherry paint, and unique red-and-grey interior trim. Also for 2002, the SE gains standard cruise control and dual-zone climate control, and GTs get a standard power driver's seat and CD player. Grand Prix shares its platform with the Buick Century and Regal, Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, and the Oldsmobile Intrigue.
Competition
Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both come in coupe and sedan forms, offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced.
Recommended models include the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, plain-Jane Ford Taurus, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. The restyled and larger Nissan Altima is new to the Recommended list this year. We are impressed with interior room and road manners, but disappointed by the budget-level interior materials and assembly.
Recommended models include the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, plain-Jane Ford Taurus, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. The restyled and larger Nissan Altima is new to the Recommended list this year. We are impressed with interior room and road manners, but disappointed by the budget-level interior materials and assembly.
News
Essentially unchanged in year-to-year sales for calendar 2000, Grand Prix dropped 20.7 percent in the first nine months of 2001, which more than erases its 20.5-percent gain in calendar '99. Still, Pontiac's number-two seller could have fared much worse, as indeed some rivals have.
Grand Prix's next redesign has been rescheduled for model-year 2005, two years later than previously reported. The coupe body style may be dropped, but sedans will share a new "W-body" platform with the next-generation Buick Regal and Chevrolet Impala/Monte Carlo, also due for '05. All are said to be slightly wider outside and roomier inside than today's models.
Grand Prix's next redesign has been rescheduled for model-year 2005, two years later than previously reported. The coupe body style may be dropped, but sedans will share a new "W-body" platform with the next-generation Buick Regal and Chevrolet Impala/Monte Carlo, also due for '05. All are said to be slightly wider outside and roomier inside than today's models.
2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (3.8 V6) | Fuel economy (supercharged engine) |
| Steering/handling | Rear-seat entry/exit (cpe) |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The base 3.1 V6 proves adequate, but performance is much more satisfying with the 3.8--about 8 sec 0-60-mph in our tests--and downright muscular with the supercharged version, at 6.9 sec. With all, the transmission is admirably smooth and downshifts quickly for passing.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
The base 3.1 V6 proves adequate, but performance is much more satisfying with the 3.8--about 8 sec 0-60-mph in our tests--and downright muscular with the supercharged version, at 6.9 sec. With all, the transmission is admirably smooth and downshifts quickly for passing.
Fuel Economy
Test models with the naturally aspirated 3.8 averaged 15-17 mpg in urban commuting, 22.7 mpg overall. That engine and the 3.1 V6 use regular-grade fuel. Pontiac recommends premium fuel for the supercharged 3.8, and our test GTP averaged 18.6 mpg.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Test models with the naturally aspirated 3.8 averaged 15-17 mpg in urban commuting, 22.7 mpg overall. That engine and the 3.1 V6 use regular-grade fuel. Pontiac recommends premium fuel for the supercharged 3.8, and our test GTP averaged 18.6 mpg.
Ride Quality
Firm SE and GT suspensions deliver stable, comfortable ride. Tauter GTP has more tire thump and harshness.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.2 |
Firm SE and GT suspensions deliver stable, comfortable ride. Tauter GTP has more tire thump and harshness.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Capable, with firm, direct steering. GTP has the sharpest control, responses. Braking strong, though modulation mediocre.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Capable, with firm, direct steering. GTP has the sharpest control, responses. Braking strong, though modulation mediocre.
Quietness
Wind and engine noise low, but tire thrum can intrude.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.4 |
Wind and engine noise low, but tire thrum can intrude.
Controls
Gauges and controls easy to see and reach, but overall look of dashboard is busy and cluttered. Optional EyeCue head-up display is useful to some testers, annoying to others. High parcel shelf limits vision astern for parking.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6.3 |
Gauges and controls easy to see and reach, but overall look of dashboard is busy and cluttered. Optional EyeCue head-up display is useful to some testers, annoying to others. High parcel shelf limits vision astern for parking.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Ample head and leg room, comfortable seats.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Ample head and leg room, comfortable seats.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Two adults have generous room; three fit in a pinch. But seat is low to floor, provides little support. Doors open wide, but foot clearance through them is tight. Entry/exit in coupe is difficult, as in most 2 drs.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 4.3 |
Two adults have generous room; three fit in a pinch. But seat is low to floor, provides little support. Doors open wide, but foot clearance through them is tight. Entry/exit in coupe is difficult, as in most 2 drs.
Cargo Room
Trunk is wide with long, flat floor. But opening is narrow, liftover high.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Trunk is wide with long, flat floor. But opening is narrow, liftover high.
Value within Class
Assembly quality and interior materials don't match those of most import-brand rivals, but Grand Prix is a capable, sporty midsize that challenges class leaders in overall value and, in GTP form especially, beats most in performance.
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 8 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
Assembly quality and interior materials don't match those of most import-brand rivals, but Grand Prix is a capable, sporty midsize that challenges class leaders in overall value and, in GTP form especially, beats most in performance.
Total Score
| SE sdn | GT cpe | GTP sdn | Class Average |
| 57 | 57 | 58 | 54.6 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 40 | |
| Average Score | 54 | |
| High Score | 73 |
2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/17/2002
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| SE 4-door sedan | $21,230 | $19,425 | $635 |
|
|
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| GT 2-door coupe | $23,200 | $21,228 | $635 |
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|
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| GT 4-door sedan | $23,350 | $21,365 | $635 |
|
|
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| GTP 2-door coupe | $25,890 | $23,689 | $635 |
|
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| GTP 4-door sedan | $26,070 | $23,854 | $635 |
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
3.1-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, enhanced traction control.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, dual front airbags, daytime running lights, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone manual control, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, AM/FM/cassette, digital clock, tachometer, visor mirrors, intermittent wipers, rear defogger, map lights, remote decklid release, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, fog lights, 205/70R15 tires, wheel covers.
GT adds to SE:
Powertrain
3.8-liter V6 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
6-way power driver seat, rear-seat trunk pass-through, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, steering-wheel radio controls, overhead console.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system w/alarm, 225/60R16 tires, alloy wheels.
GTP adds to GT:
Powertrain
3.8-liter supercharged V6 engine, full-function traction control.
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar System w/one-year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), driver-seat 4-way power lumbar adjustment, head-up instrument display, leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, trip computer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Option Group 1SB
|
||
|
GT coupe
|
$810
|
$721
|
|
GT sedan
|
$840
|
$748
|
|
OnStar System w/one-year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), leather-wrapped steering wheel, trip computer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, rear reading lights (sedan), assist handles.
|
||
|
Option Group 1SC
|
||
|
GT coupe
|
$2,680
|
$2,385
|
|
GT sedan
|
$2,710
|
$2,412
|
|
Group 1SB plus leather upholstery, driver seat 4-way power lumbar adjustment, power sunroof, head-up instrument display.
|
||
|
40th Anniversary Appearance Pkg.
|
||
|
GT, GTP
|
$2,695
|
$2,399
|
|
Two-tone leather upholstery, hood ducts, unique spoiler, roof fences, exhaust tips, badging, chrome alloy wheels.
|
||
|
Premium Lighting Pkg.
|
||
|
GT sedan
|
$640
|
$570
|
|
GT coupe
|
$610
|
$543
|
|
OnStar System w/one-year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, rear reading lights (sedan).
|
||
|
Security Pkg.
|
||
|
SE
|
$210
|
$187
|
|
Remote keyless entry, theft-deterrent system w/alarm.
|
||
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Driver seat 4-way power lumbar support
|
||
|
GT
|
$130
|
$116
|
|
Heated driver seat
|
||
|
GT, GTP
|
$100
|
$89
|
|
Requires leather upholstery.
|
||
|
Leather upholstery
|
||
|
GT, GTP
|
$520
|
$463
|
|
GT requires driver seat 4-way power lumbar adjustment.
|
||
|
AM/FM/CD player
|
||
|
SE
|
$110
|
$98
|
|
Requires Option Group 1SB.
|
||
|
AM/FM/CD player w/graphic equalizer
|
||
|
GT
|
$50
|
$45
|
|
Bose sound system
|
||
|
GT
|
$395
|
$352
|
|
GTP
|
$345
|
$307
|
|
NA w/40th Anniversary Appearance Pkg.
|
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
GT, GTP
|
$795
|
$708
|
|
Deletes overhead console.
|
||
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Head-up instrument display
|
||
|
GT
|
$325
|
$289
|
|
Requires Group 1SB.
|
||
|
Cargo net
|
||
|
SE
|
$30
|
$27
|
|
Rear seat trunk pass-through
|
||
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SE
|
$60
|
$53
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Engine block heater
|
||
|
GT, GTP, SE
|
$35
|
$31
|
|
Polished alloy wheels
|
||
|
GT, GTP
|
$325
|
$289
|
|
|
||
2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe | Pontiac Grand Prix 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 110.5 | 110.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 197.5 | 197.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.7 | 72.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.7 | 54.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3429 | 3384 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.0 | 16.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.5 | 17.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 38.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.5 | 36.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.1 | 35.8 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | ohv V6 | Supercharged ohv V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.1 /191 | 3.8 /231 | 3.8 /231 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 175 @ 5200 | 200 @ 5200 | 240 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 195 @ 4000 | 225 @ 4000 | 280 @ 3600 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 4-speed automatic | 20/29 | 19/29 | 18/28 |
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 Prix 2-door coupe | Pontiac Grand Prix 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | NA | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | NA | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | NA | 2 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | NA | 3 |
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 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Pontiac Grand Prix Full Review
7.
8.
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