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2003 Pontiac Grand Am Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
2003 Pontiac Grand Am Review
Antilock brakes are optional instead of standard for 2003 on the least-expensive versions of Pontiac's compact coupes and sedans. Revised appearance for Grand Am sedans, which lose their lower-body plastic cladding, is the other newsmaker this year. Sedans come in base SE and uplevel SE1 and SE2 trim for '03. Both sedans and coupes are also offered in sportier GT and GT1 models. GT and GT1 versions retain cladding. SE and SE1 have a 4-cyl engine and manual or automatic transmission. A V6 with automatic transmission is standard for SE2 and available for SE1. GTs have a "Ram Air" V6 with slightly more power. This year, ABS and traction control are a $400 option for SE and SE1, but remain standard elsewhere. GTs have rear disc brakes vs. drums on other models. In other changes, all Grand Ams except the SE get XM satellite-radio service with 100-channel digital receiver as a new option. The SE2 sedan is new for '03 and upgrades SE/SE1 features with a leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, a six-way power driver seat, cruise control, and 16-inch wheels. Added as a midyear option for GT1s was a Solid Value Appearance package with 30th-anniversary badges and special trim. Grand Am shares its basic design with the Oldsmobile Alero, which will be dropped after model-year 2004.
Competition
Playing the roll of crossover utility vehicle in a segment of sedans and wagons gives Chrysler PT Cruiser a leg up on the competition. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars and this year adds more power with the Turbo model.
Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix are new this year and are worth considering as Recommended SUV-like alternatives. Hyundai's Sonata earns recognition for offering impressive comfort, equipment, and warranty coverage at a reasonable price. The all-wheel drive Subaru Outback/Legacy is another Recommended selection, thanks to a superb AWD system and roomy cargo holds.
Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix are new this year and are worth considering as Recommended SUV-like alternatives. Hyundai's Sonata earns recognition for offering impressive comfort, equipment, and warranty coverage at a reasonable price. The all-wheel drive Subaru Outback/Legacy is another Recommended selection, thanks to a superb AWD system and roomy cargo holds.
News
Grand Am should stand pat until its scheduled 2005-model redesign, when it becomes an underskin sibling of Chevy's 2004 Malibu on GM's "Epsilon" front-drive platform. GM-owned Saab also uses Epsilon for its redesigned '03 9-3. Like the upcoming Malibu, the next Grand Am should be a bit taller and wider, but little if any longer, though wheelbase will add an inch or two. Sedans go on sale first, followed by new-design coupes in early 2005. A convertible--the first for Grand Am--is on tap by mid-summer '05. Powertrains are unknown, but we'd expect a modified version of the current 4-cyl and a twincam 3.5-liter V6 replacing today's aging overhead-valve 3.4 engines.
Though still the most popular Pontiac by far, Grand Am keeps slipping from customer favor. Year-to-year sales dropped 15.3 percent in calendar 2001 and another 16.8 percent in the first nine months of 2002.
Though still the most popular Pontiac by far, Grand Am keeps slipping from customer favor. Year-to-year sales dropped 15.3 percent in calendar 2001 and another 16.8 percent in the first nine months of 2002.
2003 Pontiac Grand Am Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (V6) | Rear-seat entry/exit (2-dr) |
| Steering/handling (GT, GT1) | Interior materials |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
No model is harsh over bumps, but none is that compliant, either. Chassis loses its cool on rough pavement at highway speeds, compromising stability.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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)
Sufficient room, though spongy seats don't support well in spirited cornering, and some drivers find steering wheel protrudes too far.
| 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)
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.
| 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
Spacious trunk, but opening is small, liftover high. All models except base SE, include helpful split folding rear seatbacks.
| 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
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.
| 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 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 43 | |
| Average Score | 56 | |
| High Score | 72 |
2003 Pontiac Grand Am Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 07/10/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| SE 4-door sedan | $17,070 | $15,619 | $625 |
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| SE1 4-door sedan | $19,020 | $17,403 | $625 |
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| SE2 4-door sedan | $21,375 | $19,558 | $625 |
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| GT 2-door coupe | $21,690 | $19,846 | $625 |
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| GT 4-door sedan | $21,690 | $19,846 | $625 |
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| GT1 2-door coupe | $22,940 | $20,990 | $625 |
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| GT1 4-door sedan | $22,940 | $20,990 | $625 |
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
2.2-liter dohc 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, power door locks, remote fuel-door and decklid release, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, visor mirrors, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, 215/60R15 tires, wheel covers.
SE1 adds to SE:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power mirrors, power windows, remote keyless entry, 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 170-horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Antilock brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, 6-way power driver seat, map lights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
215/60R16 tires.
GT adds to SE2:
Powertrain
3.4-liter V6 175-horsepower engine.
Safety
4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Monsoon sound system, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: steering-wheel radio controls.
Rear spoiler, sport suspension, 225/50R16 tires.
GT1 adds to GT:
Comfort and Convenience Features
6-way power driver seat, power sunroof, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, steering-wheel radio controls.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Solid Value Appearance Pkg.
|
||
|
GT1
|
$1,865
|
$1,670
|
|
30th Anniversary Edition badging, leather upholstery, unique interior trim, satellite radio, chrome exhaust tips, chrome alloy wheels. Satellite radio requires monthly fee.
|
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|
SC/T Appearance Pkg.
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GT, GT1
|
$1,245
|
$1,108
|
|
Composite hood, aero rear spoiler.
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|
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Powertrain |
||
|
3.4-liter V6 170-horsepower engine
|
||
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SE1
|
$715
|
$636
|
|
Includes variable-assist power steering. Requires 4-speed automatic transmission.
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4-speed automatic transmission
|
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SE, SE1
|
$850
|
$757
|
|
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Safety |
||
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Antilock brakes
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SE, SE1
|
$400
|
$356
|
|
Includes traction control.
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|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Power sunroof
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SE1, SE2, GT
|
$700
|
$623
|
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Leather upholstery
|
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SE2, GT, GT1
|
$595
|
$530
|
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Upgraded AM/FM/CD player
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SE
|
$70
|
$62
|
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AM/FM/cassette/CD player
|
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|
SE1, SE2
|
$400
|
$356
|
|
GT
|
$200
|
$178
|
|
SE1, SE2 include Monsoon sound system.
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Satellite radio
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SE1, SE2, GT, GT1
|
$325
|
$289
|
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Requires monthly fee. SE1 requires AM/FM/cassette/CD player.
|
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Cruise control
|
||
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SE
|
$250
|
$223
|
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Power windows
|
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SE
|
$430
|
$383
|
|
Includes power mirrors.
|
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Floormats
|
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SE, SE1, SE2
|
$80
|
$71
|
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
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Engine-block heater
|
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GT, GT1, SE, SE1, SE2
|
$35
|
$31
|
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Composite hood
|
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GT, GT1
|
$995
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$886
|
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Rear spoiler
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||
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SE, SE1, SE2
|
$225
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$200
|
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Aero rear spoiler
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GT, GT1
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$250
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$223
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Front license plate 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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SE
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$375
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$334
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Chrome alloy wheels
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SE1, SE2, GT, GT1
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$650
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$579
|
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SE1, SE2 include 225/50R16 tires.
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2003 Pontiac Grand Am Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Pontiac Grand Am 2-door coupe | Pontiac Grand Am 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.2 | 107.2 |
| 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. | 14.1 | 14.1 |
| 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. | 37.3 | 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. | 2.2 /134 | 3.4 /207 | 3.4 /207 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 140 @ 5600 | 170 @ 4800 | 175 @ 4800 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 150 @ 4000 | 195 @ 4000 | 205 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed manual | 26/33 | --/-- | --/-- |
| 4-speed automatic | 24/33 | 20/29 | 20/29 |
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 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 1 | 3 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 | 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 2003 Pontiac Grand Am Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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