2003 Pontiac Grand Am: Road Test
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2003 Pontiac Grand Am ▼
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- MSRP: $17,070 -$22,940
- Invoice: $15,619 -$20,990
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Our road test for the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am help you decide if a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 5.2 |
Four-cyl models are peppy enough for most needs. V6s are gutsy for the compact class, at about 8 sec in our 0-60 mph in our tests, though quick takeoffs can induce bothersome torque steer--pulling to one side. Notchy manual-transmission shift action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.3 |
In our tests, 4-cyl models averaged 22.7 mpg with manual transmission, 21.6 with automatic; V6s delivered 19.4-23.7 mpg depending on driving conditions. Both engines use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.3 |
No model is harsh over bumps, but none is that compliant, either. Chassis loses its cool on rough pavement at highway speeds, compromising stability.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6.1 |
Not Eurosedan precise, and a bit unsure in rapid transitions. But steering is pleasantly weighted, turn-in reasonably quick, and there's good grip and balance in sweeping curves. Brake-pedal feel is firm, stopping power adequate with ABS, but shame on Pontiac for making ABS optional on this year's SE/SE1. We haven't tested a non-ABS model.
QUIETNESS
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Loud engine moan at high rpm, and sporty exhaust note quickly grows tiresome. Tires thrum intrusively on rough surfaces, thump loudly over tar strips. Wind noise a constant.
CONTROLS
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 6.5 |
Overstyled dashboard has deeply recessed gauges that aren't that easy to see. Major controls group conveniently around the driver, but switch action feels cheap. Fabrics and molded plastics impart a cut-rate cabin ambience. Rear visibility isn't great, but aft "cornering" lamps help when backing up at night.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Sufficient room, though spongy seats don't support well in spirited cornering, and some drivers find steering wheel protrudes too far.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4.4 |
OK for two adults in either body style, though coupes difficult to enter or exit. Seat too soft, cushion too small, for long-haul comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
Spacious trunk, but opening is small, liftover high. All models except base SE, include helpful split folding rear seatbacks.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6.2 |
This aging compact lacks the refinement, build quality, and interior space efficiency of import rivals. Grand Am's main attractions are strong V6 go, generally competent road manners, and lots of equipment at attractive prices.
Total Score
| SE1 cpe, 4-cyl auto. | GT sdn, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 43 | 47 | 56.1 |
Total Score: 45
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