2008 Pontiac G8: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Pontiac G8 marks the return of a large rear-wheel-drive car to General Motors' performance-oriented division. The G8 shares its basic design with large cars from Holden, GM's Australian subsidiary. The G8 is available as a base or sporty GT model. The base offers a 256-hp 3.6-liter V6 while the GT has a 361-hp 6.0-liter V8. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on the base, and a 6-speed automatic is standard on the GT. Exterior appearance is similar for both models, with the most obvious differences being chrome-trimmed door handles, clear taillamp lenses, and four exhaust tips on the GT. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. GM's OnStar assistance is standard.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Cars comprise the biggest passenger sedans and wagons. Large inside and out, they offer lots of metal for the money and are dominated by domestic brands.

Our Best Buys include Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, and Toyota Avalon. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable.

New for 2008 is the Pontiac G8.

The Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable replace the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego, and both models have more power and have been restyled for 2008.