2005 Pontiac Bonneville: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Pontiac will drop its largest sedans after 2005, which carry on with few changes. Bonneville closes out with three models. SE and SLE have a 205-hp V6. The performance-oriented GXP uses a 275-hp version of Cadillac's 4.6-liter Northstar V8. All have 4-speed automatic transmission, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, tire-pressure monitor, load-leveling rear suspension, and front bucket seats. SE offers an optional front bench seat for 6-passenger capacity, and now shares standard OnStar assistance with other models. Front side airbags are standard on GXP, optional for SE and SLE. Curtain side airbags are unavailable. Traction control is standard for SLE and GXP, optional for SE. Satellite radio is available for all. SEs ride on 16-inch wheels, SLEs 17s, GXPs 18s. GXPs also have uprated suspension and brakes, GM's Stabilitrak antiskid system, dual-zone climate control, 12-way power front seats, and leather/suede upholstery. The main news for '05 is that the SLE looks more like the GXP by virtue of revised nose and tail styling and a new lower-bodyside treatment. Buick's LeSabre shares Bonneville's underskin design, but has different looks and doesn't offer a V8 model.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Cars comprise the biggest passenger sedans and wagons. Large, inside and out, they also include the only 6-passenger cars. Large Cars offer lots of metal for the money and are dominated by domestic brands.

Our Best Buys include the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego.