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2003 Pontiac Bonneville Full Review
Date Published: 11/23/08
Also in the 2003 Pontiac Bonneville Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Pontiac Bonneville Full Review
7.
8.
2003 Pontiac Bonneville Review
Front side airbags are optional instead of standard for 2003 on most versions of Pontiac's largest sedan. Bonneville comes in SE, SLE, and SSEi models. All have a 3.8-liter V6; the SSEi's is supercharged for more power. A 4-speed automatic is the sole transmission. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, a tire-pressure monitor, and a load-leveling rear suspension are standard. Standard front bucket seats are revised for '03. The SE offers an optional front bench seat for 6-passenger capacity. Formerly standard on all models, front side airbags are standard for '03 only on the SSEi; they're a $350 option on SE and SLE. Traction control and General Motors' OnStar service are available for SE, standard otherwise. An antiskid system is exclusive to the SSEi model, where it's standard. A head-up instrument display was previously standard on the SSEi but for '03 is an exclusive option on that model. Newly available for all Bonnevilles is XM satellite radio with a 100-channel digital receiver; a service fee is required. Bonneville shares its basic design with the Buick LeSabre.
Competition
Heading up the field as Best Buys are the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid twins. They have real room for six, exceptional road manners, plenty of power, and hefty manufacturer discounts. Toyota's Avalon and Buick's LeSabre are our Recommended choices. Both have room for five and offer a comfortable ride (with modest handling capabilities). If you are looking for towing ability and don't want an SUV, Ford Crown Victoria, with its rear-drive layout and body-on-frame chassis, is an option. Ford has updated it nicely over the years and it comes at a reasonable price.
News
Bonneville may or may not live past 2004, when the related Buick LeSabre is to get a thorough reengineering job. Pontiac is said to be undecided about continuing its full-size car because sales aren't what they need to be. Indeed, Bonneville dropped a sizeable 26 percent year-over-year in calendar 2001 and another 22.4 percent in the first nine months of 2002.
Bonneville's last redesign introduced a lot of decoration that some critics say is out of step with buyer tastes and thus hampering sales. Pontiac reportedly takes care of that for 2004 by tearing off the current model's bodyside cladding and other "performance" visuals. The recent Bonneville G/XP concept is said to preview the '04 revisions. Given the current sales picture, we wouldn't be surprised to see deliveries begin by early next summer.
Bonneville's last redesign introduced a lot of decoration that some critics say is out of step with buyer tastes and thus hampering sales. Pontiac reportedly takes care of that for 2004 by tearing off the current model's bodyside cladding and other "performance" visuals. The recent Bonneville G/XP concept is said to preview the '04 revisions. Given the current sales picture, we wouldn't be surprised to see deliveries begin by early next summer.
2003 Pontiac Bonneville Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Rear-seat comfort |
| Passenger and cargo room | Fuel economy |
| Ride/handling | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
SE/SLE have good throttle response throughout speed range; supercharged SSEi is even stronger, running 0-60 mph in about 7 sec. Transmission changes gears smoothly, downshifts quickly.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 5.5 |
SE/SLE have good throttle response throughout speed range; supercharged SSEi is even stronger, running 0-60 mph in about 7 sec. Transmission changes gears smoothly, downshifts quickly.
Fuel Economy
Test SE averaged 20.6 mpg--good for a full-size sedan. Our SSEi averaged 15.7. SE and SLE use regular fuel; SSEi requires premium.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
Test SE averaged 20.6 mpg--good for a full-size sedan. Our SSEi averaged 15.7. SE and SLE use regular fuel; SSEi requires premium.
Ride Quality
SE has softer damping than SLE and SSEi, and thus floats more over high-speed bumps and dips, but all models are comfortable enough.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 6.8 |
SE has softer damping than SLE and SSEi, and thus floats more over high-speed bumps and dips, but all models are comfortable enough.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Generally balanced and composed on any model, but SLE/SSEi feel sharper than base SE. SSEi's StabiliTrak antiskid system helps keep you on course in emergency maneuvers, but SSEi test cars suffered annoying torque steer--pulling to one side in rapid acceleration. Stopping power strong enough, though pedal effort is high and modulation poor.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 5.5 |
Generally balanced and composed on any model, but SLE/SSEi feel sharper than base SE. SSEi's StabiliTrak antiskid system helps keep you on course in emergency maneuvers, but SSEi test cars suffered annoying torque steer--pulling to one side in rapid acceleration. Stopping power strong enough, though pedal effort is high and modulation poor.
Quietness
Engines smooth, but prominent highway wind rush and suspension/tire noise over coarse or rough surfaces don't bespeak top-drawer engineering.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 6.3 |
Engines smooth, but prominent highway wind rush and suspension/tire noise over coarse or rough surfaces don't bespeak top-drawer engineering.
Controls
Controls for audio and climate systems easy to reach and decipher. Two-tone surfaces enhance dashboard appearance, but design is gimmicky and plastics look and feel low-budget.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Controls for audio and climate systems easy to reach and decipher. Two-tone surfaces enhance dashboard appearance, but design is gimmicky and plastics look and feel low-budget.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Plenty of room with buckets. SE's available bench seat squeezes a middle adult. Safety belts integrated into seatbacks; some testers find this convenient, others complain of poor fit over the shoulder. SSEi's 12-way power seats are very firm, but include memory.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 6.9 |
Plenty of room with buckets. SE's available bench seat squeezes a middle adult. Safety belts integrated into seatbacks; some testers find this convenient, others complain of poor fit over the shoulder. SSEi's 12-way power seats are very firm, but include memory.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Short on head room for taller passengers; an adult will be cramped in the middle. Seat cushion too soft and poorly shaped.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 5.9 |
Short on head room for taller passengers; an adult will be cramped in the middle. Seat cushion too soft and poorly shaped.
Cargo Room
Numerous interior storage cubbies, but front cupholders don't hold large containers. Rear seat has fold-down armrest, trunk pass-through. Trunk is large, but lid's hinges dip into load area.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Numerous interior storage cubbies, but front cupholders don't hold large containers. Rear seat has fold-down armrest, trunk pass-through. Trunk is large, but lid's hinges dip into load area.
Value within Class
A Bonneville SE offers good big-car value, with the SLE adding some useful amenities at a reasonable premium. The SSEi's supercharged power is impressive, but a loaded example can top $34,000--well into the near-luxury realm, where most cars have better pedigrees and more refinement.
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 6.9 |
A Bonneville SE offers good big-car value, with the SLE adding some useful amenities at a reasonable premium. The SSEi's supercharged power is impressive, but a loaded example can top $34,000--well into the near-luxury realm, where most cars have better pedigrees and more refinement.
Total Score
| SE | SSEi | Class Average |
| 57 | 54 | 59.8 |
Scores for all Large Cars
| Low Score | 54 | |
| Average Score | 59 | |
| High Score | 66 |
2003 Pontiac Bonneville Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/06/2003
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| SE 4-door sedan | $26,695 | $24,426 | $725 |
|
|
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| SLE 4-door sedan | $29,670 | $27,148 | $725 |
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| SSEi 4-door sedan | $34,020 | $31,128 | $725 |
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
3.8-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, rear-seat trunk pass-through, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, map lights, intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, remote decklid release, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, load-leveling suspension, 225/60R16 tires.
SLE adds to SE:
Powertrain
Traction control.
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar System w/one-year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, heated power mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, performance suspension, 235/55R17 tires, alloy wheels.
SSEi adds to SLE:
Powertrain
3.8-liter V6 supercharged engine.
Safety
Antiskid system, front side airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate controls, articulating 12-way power driver seat w/memory, power passenger seat, Monsoon AM/FM/cassette/CD player, outside-temperature indicator.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Air-inflator kit.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Option Group 1SC
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||
|
SE
|
$2,100
|
$1,869
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|
OnStar System w/one-year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), traction control, performance axle ratio, leather upholstery, driver-seat power lumbar support and recline, rear armrest, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, automatic day/night rearview mirror, theft-deterrent-system w/alarm.
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||
|
Leather Appointment Pkg.
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SE
|
$1,025
|
$912
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|
Leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls.
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|
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Powertrain |
||
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Traction control
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SE
|
$175
|
$156
|
|
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Safety |
||
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Front side airbags
|
||
|
SE, SLE
|
$350
|
$312
|
|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
SE, SLE, SSEi
|
$1,100
|
$979
|
|
Includes universal garage-door opener.
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Dual-zone automatic climate controls
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|
SE, SLE
|
$365
|
$325
|
|
SE requires Option Group 1SC.
|
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Leather upholstery
|
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|
SLE
|
$850
|
$757
|
|
Power passenger seat
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||
|
SE, SLE
|
$550
|
$490
|
|
Includes heated front seats.
|
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Front split bench seat
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SE
|
$150
|
$134
|
|
NA w/Option Group 1SC or traction control.
|
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Heated front seats
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||
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SSEi
|
$295
|
$263
|
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AM/FM/cassette/CD player
|
||
|
SE, SLE
|
$125
|
$111
|
|
12-disc CD changer
|
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SSEi
|
$595
|
$530
|
|
Satellite radio
|
||
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SE, SLE, SSEi
|
$325
|
$289
|
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Requires monthly fee.
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel
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SE
|
$175
|
$156
|
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Includes radio controls.
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Head-up instrument display
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SSEi
|
$325
|
$289
|
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Cargo net
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||
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SE, SLE
|
$30
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$27
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Std. SSEi.
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||
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
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Engine-block heater
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||
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SE, SLE, SSEi
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$35
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$31
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Trunk emergency accessory kit
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||
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SSEi
|
$100
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$89
|
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Rear spoiler
|
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SE
|
$175
|
$156
|
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Alloy wheels
|
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SE
|
$375
|
$334
|
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Chrome alloy wheels
|
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SLE, SSEi
|
$595
|
$530
|
|
|
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2003 Pontiac Bonneville Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Pontiac Bonneville 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.2 |
| Overall Length, in. | 202.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.6 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3590 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 18.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | Supercharged ohv V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.8 /231 | 3.8 /231 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 205 @ 5200 | 240 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 230 @ 4000 | 280 @ 3600 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 4-speed automatic | 20/29 | 17/27 |
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 Bonneville 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 5 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 |
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 2003 Pontiac Bonneville Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Pontiac Bonneville Full Review
7.
8.
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