2005 Pontiac Grand Am Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2005 Pontiac Grand Am includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Pontiac Grand Am from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Pontiac Grand Am, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Pontiac Grand Am help you decide if a 2005 Pontiac Grand Am is right for you.

2005 Pontiac Grand Am Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Rear-seat entry/exit

Steering/handling	Interior materials

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

GT	Class Average
6	5.3

V6 gutsy for the class; test car did about 8 sec 0-60 mph. But quick takeoffs can induce bothersome torque steer--pulling to one side. Transmission acceptably smooth, responsive.

Fuel Economy

GT	Class Average
5	5.2

Test V6 versions averaged 19.4-23.7 mpg depending on driving conditions. Pontiac recommends regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

GT	Class Average
5	6.1

Not harsh over most bumps, but not that compliant, either. Chassis loses its cool on rough pavement at highway speeds, compromising stability.

Steering/Handling/Braking

GT	Class Average
6	6.1

Far from Euro-sedan precise, but Grand Am has pleasantly weighted steering, reasonably quick turn-in, and good cornering grip. Brake-pedal feel is firm, stopping performance adequate with standard ABS.

Quietness

GT	Class Average
4	6

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

GT	Class Average
3	6.6

Overstyled dash annoys with deeply recessed gauges. Major controls group conveniently around the driver, though switch action feels cheap. Interior materials subpar for the class.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

GT	Class Average
5	6.3

Sufficient room, but spongy seats don't support well in spirited cornering, and some drivers find manual-tilt steering wheel is too close.

Room/Comfort (rear)

GT	Class Average
3	4.7

A little cramped for adults, as is entry/exit. Seat too soft, cushion too small, for long-haul comfort.

Cargo Room

GT	Class Average
4	4.5

Spacious trunk, but opening is small, liftover high. Standard split folding rear seatbacks compensate some.

Value within Class

GT	Class Average
4	5.7

Grand Am is overdue for replacement, lacking the refinement, build quality, and interior space of most import rivals. Main attractions are strong V6 power, competent road manners, and lots of equipment at attractive prices.

Total Score