Acceleration

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
6	7	8	5.9

V6 provides ample power for everyday use, abetted by smooth, prompt automatic transmission. Supercharged version is muscular. No opportunity yet to time GXP, but V8 has ample around-town power, robust acceleration. TAPshift enhances performance more than many such systems, though the paddles are difficult to reach with thumbs.

Fuel Economy

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
5	5	4	5.1

Test base and GT models averaged 17.1-19.0 mpg. GXP averaged 17.0. Pontiac recommends premium-grade fuel for GT and GXP.

Ride Quality

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
7	6	6	6.1

Base comfortable on uneven pavement, but can be floaty at highway speeds. GT and GXP more stable, firm but not harsh over bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
7	7	8	6.2

All models composed, balanced. Steering firm and responsive, but wide turning circle hampers close-quarters maneuvering. Brakes on test cars felt numb, spongy, but stopped well.

Quietness

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
7	7	6	6.2

Wind noise muted. GXP's low-profile tires slap on sharp pavement joints, but road rumble otherwise unobtrusive. V6s gruff in full-throttle acceleration. V8 much smoother, more refined.

Controls

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
5	5	5	6.7

Large gauges, easy-to-use controls. Interior materials disappoint for the price, trail most rivals for feel and quality.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
7	7	7	6.8

Ample leg room, but no excess of head room, particularly with sunroof. Good side-bolster support in turns. Some testers say long-trip comfort compromised by too-firm seatbacks. Thick windshield-pillar bases hamper outward vision.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
3	3	3	5.1

Fair leg room, but limited toe space. Seatback uncomfortably hard; low cushion provides little thigh support. Rear doors open unusually wide, easing entry/exit, but coupelike roofline means adults must duck getting in or out.

Cargo Room

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
5	5	5	4.8

Trunk volume average for class, but available fold-flat right-front seatback and standard 60/40 split folding rear seat can expand load volume for objects up to 9.5-ft long. Wide-opening rear doors ease loading bulky items.

Value within Class

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
6	5	6	6.3

It trails our top-rated Honda Accord and Toyota Camry for interior quality, and rear-seat comfort is subpar. Still, Grand Prix appeals for its good performance, comfortable ride, cargo versatility, and plenty of features at competitive prices. The potent GXP is worth a look for shoppers who put a premium on power and expressive styling.

Total Score

Base	GT	GXP	Class Average
58	57	58	59.2

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		47
Average Score		59
High Score		69