2003 Pontiac Bonneville: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.