Overview & Reviews
Perhaps because of their wide-open spaces, America and Australia share an affinity for large rear-wheel-drive performance cars. This proved useful for General Motors in the mid-2000s when it was casting about for a hot new American full-size sedan. The company decided to tap Australian subsidiary Holden for its revered Commodore model. The result was the stylish and powerful Pontiac G8.
Alas, the G8 only lived one year past its production debut in 2008. When GM went through bankruptcy in 2009, Pontiac didn't survive the transition, and the G8 went down with the ship. That's a shame, because the G8 was an excellent full-size sport sedan, particularly in V8-powered GT or GXP trim. It also had a limolike backseat and a unique look. As a used model, the G8 holds unique appeal. Our only concern might be future repairs; GM has pledged to support Pontiac products through its existing service centers, but the G8's limited production run could lead to scarce part availability down the road.
Most Recent Pontiac G8
Produced from 2008-'09, the rear-wheel-drive Pontiac G8 full-size sedan was available in up to three trim levels distinguished by powertrain. The base G8 came with a 3.6-liter V6 that produced 256 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. The midlevel GT had a 6.0-liter V8 packing 361 hp and 385 lb-ft. The top-performing GXP, which was only made for 2009, boasted a detuned version of the Corvette's 6.2-liter V8 with 402 hp and 402 lb-ft. The base G8 came with a five-speed automatic, while the GT got a six-speed automatic and the GXP had either a six-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual.
The G8 came well-equipped. Standard features included 18-inch wheels, power front seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a seven-speaker CD sound system with an auxiliary audio jack and (for '09) satellite radio. The GT added the 6.0-liter V8 engine, a limited-slip differential, dual-zone automatic climate control and a premium sound system with a six-CD changer. The GXP boasted the larger V8 as well as a unique front fascia, an upgraded sport-tuned suspension (which didn't make much of a handling difference) and 19-inch wheels. Options included leather upholstery (available in two-tone colors), heated front seats, a sunroof and, for the GT, 19-inch wheels.
In reviews, we noted that there was a lot more to the Pontiac G8 than just its available V8 power. The ride tended to be on the firm side, yet road imperfections were soaked up nicely. Overall, the G8 struck an excellent balance between comfort and sport. While it was impossible to overlook the G8's significant size and weight, this Pontiac handled very well for a full-size car while still providing exceedingly pleasant transportation for its passengers. Of course, it was also a very fast car with either V8, and even the base V6 was solid.
The G8's cabin was clearly built by a GM division without access to the North American parts bin. Materials were reasonably high-quality and the overall layout was reminiscent of Audi's efforts, if not exactly their equivalent in build quality. The 2008 G8 had goofy-looking digital battery and oil gauges atop the center stack; these were thankfully removed for 2009. However, a navigation system remained unavailable.
Overall, this Pontiac performed like a muscle car but rode and handled like a sport sedan. For the used-car shopper who wants a roomy and affordable car with plenty of driving excitement, a pre-owned Pontiac G8 deserves a very close look.
User Reviews:
Showing 91 through 100 of 287.00-
Sport Red Metallic G8 GT - 2009 Pontiac G8
By Hitman1970 - October 28 - 3:40 pmThis car is a complete joy to drive. This is my first true sports sedan and I love it. So far I have received multiple unsolicited compliments driving this car around town. Fun and practical. The back seat and trunk are bigger than my last vehicle, 2006 Buick LaCrosse CXS.
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Great sports car with room inside - 2009 Pontiac G8
By anchorage - October 25 - 4:21 am2009 G8 GT owned 2 months 19K miles 6 tall 250 lbs male (me) This a great sports car. I bought it after buying and then having to sell an Audi S4 (I cant use a manual due to a bad knee). The G8 is very fast and has a great automatic transmission. The seats are great and the interior is large enough for adult people who are larger than a size medium, unlike most sporty cars. Factory autostart has a range of about 25 feet line of sight. This car would be perfect if it had 2 inches more ground clearance, AWD, and better visiblity.
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Feeling tentative - 2009 Pontiac G8
By Tentative - October 24 - 2:46 amPurchased 3 weeks ago and spent last week in the shop. Initially told the fuel pump was bad. Dealer ordered fuel pump. Now we find out there are 2 fuel pumps and another is on order. Looks like I will have spent 1/2 of my ownership in the shop. The car isnt even tagged yet! Hope I dont have a lemon...
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Two weeks later - 2008 Pontiac G8
By Rod - October 15 - 8:23 amIt has been two weeks since I wrote my first review on the G8 GT. The fuel mileage has gone up 2 mpg from tank one to tank 3. This car gets more comments about how great it looks and impresses more people than the first car I had that was super impressive, and that was a 1970 Hemi Cuda. It is also as much fun to drive as the Cuda, and handles way better. In one review someone commented about no release for the gas filler door. The gas door lock is part of the door lock system. If the doors are locked the gas door is locked. I like that dont have to pull a lever, just make sure the doors are unlocked, and who locks their doors when they are at the gas pump. you know you are being robbed.
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377 of 888 - 2008 Pontiac G8
By Key Stone Cop - October 6 - 9:26 pmI have owned many cars including three BMWs and this car is more comfortable and drives as well or better than the 525 BMW.
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bargain of a life time - 2009 Pontiac G8
By renter2 - August 28 - 9:40 amPurchased new 09 of 2008, after 64 months of ownership, this vehicle has been nearly perfect. We only drive it 2 or 3 times a month. Averaging 20.8 mpg over the last 3800 miles of mixed driving. Current mileage is 23,600 mi. of old folks driving (treat it like we paid for it).Over our adult life we have owned 30+ new vehicles, & 10+ used. From Acura to VW, including a few hp & luxury types.maybe it was just good luck but the gt does everything very well.I have read the first drives of the new chevy ss, & it sounds like an excellent car, but the msrp is nearly 47k with the fuel usage tax penalty.I will keep the gt thank you.
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Rocket on wheels - 2009 Pontiac G8
By T23G - July 24 - 1:20 pmI am now into my second week owning this car and wow! You cant imagine how many heads this car turns. Obviously the HP is great out of the hole, but you really notice it on the highway with its passing power. The styling and handling is equal or better than anything I test drove before buying (CTS, A4, BMW 3). I cant believe their isnt more of these on the road already, it really is a big step up for Pontiac and GM. The one thing you really need to know is if you dont want to buy this car, DO NOT TEST DRIVE IT! Once you take it for a spin, you will not want to let go!
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Like Two Bats Out of Hell! - 2008 Pontiac G8
By Richie - July 21 - 12:46 amI have followed this car since I heard about it being available in the US. Overall this car is the best bang for your buck if you want a sport sedan. I looked at a few imports and some other domestics but the G8 won hands down dollar wise. The engine is excellent. I live in NYC and the gas mileage is low in the city (10-12 mpg) and when the highways are packed I see the same results. But when the highways are clear I see 20+mpg easy. For daily driving the suspension is fine, seats are comfy, exhaust is quiet but open up the engine and it sounds sweet. I had this car for about 2 months and I still smile when I turn her on.
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A lot of car for the money - 2009 Pontiac G8
By Todster - July 14 - 5:06 amThis is a phenomenal vehicle for the money and overall I am very pleased with it. My only complaint is the fact that the vehicle left the factory with a defect (hole) in the gas tank. It was discovered after a 1600 mile trip to Las Vegas. After repair I contacted Pontiacs customer service division about the problem from the safety standpoint and they really didnt seem to care. I love the car, I do not care much for Pontiac Motor Divisions so called customer service. I will probably not purchase another Pontiac product due to this, but the car is a lot of fun.
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Ultimate Sleeper - 2009 Pontiac G8
By sleepercity - June 26 - 3:30 pmLove this car. Was looking for a toy and almost went with a Vette, but have always loved sleepers (cars that surprise without looking like they should). So much fun and the expressions are priceless, although not usually around to see them unless I catch a light further up the road. My overpowering thought when I leave someone in the dust is google it. G8GXP. Sooo much fun, yet very drivable and comfortable on the road. Best MPH on a trip is just under 25, but like others have said, who cares. BTW, I have the 6 speed manual. The drop down wouldnt let me choose.
