2006 Pontiac Solstice: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Pontiac introduces its first true sports car for 2006, a 4-cyl two-seater with a manual-folding soft top. Solstice shares its new rear-wheel-drive architecture with the 2007 Saturn Sky. The sole engine is a 177-hp 2.4-liter shared with several General Motors compact cars. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, a 5-speed automatic is optional. Four-wheel disc brakes and 18-inch wheels are standard. So is a heated glass rear window. ABS, power windows and door locks, cruise control, and air conditioning are optional. Other options include limited-slip differential and leather upholstery. Side airbags and an antiskid system are unavailable. Due later in 2006 is a turbocharged GXP model with 260 hp.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cyl hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include Ford Mustang Mazda Miata, and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are Acura RSX, Honda S2000, Mini Cooper, Nissan 350Z, and Pontiac GTO.

New or significantly redesigned models include Mitsubishi Eclipse and Pontiac Solstice.