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:

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  Fun BMW killer... - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By DevdogHP - August 19 - 11:00 am

  On my test drive I had the pleasure of leaving both a BMW 550 and a WRX on the same stretch of I-95. Wonderful selling point...people say it is the best car for the money, I say it is the perfect car.

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  You best be "Holden" on for this ride - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Gary - July 25 - 5:56 pm

  Ok, all humor aside, this is a great car. Its fast, nimble, quiet, does what it does better than anyone else, for half the price, and I cant believe how many people ask me about it. This is quite an experience, sort of like dancing with the hottest person at the dance, and knowing youre definitely being envied. Its a very great car, which goes a long way to show that GM does it right, too bad most people dont realize just how well they do it. I love this car, its easy to drive, simple in execution and delivery. What an AMAZING machine!

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  424 of 888 - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By wesson smith - July 23 - 1:50 pm

  "Mean" look vehicle. I have never owned a vehicle which causes so many heads to turn as when I drive by. I even had a Pontiac dealer who had not yet received a G8 chase me down to look at my car. I have the Sedan, which is quicker than a lot of V8s. Some cheap features such as flimsy door handles and no XM is disappointing. Cheap stereo controls on the steering wheel. Flip open key looks cool, but seems flimsy and surely will not last. Hugh trunk and great back seat leg room.

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  For the money it cant be beat - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By S V - July 22 - 7:06 pm

  Have had this car for 6 months and about 7000 miles. It is an incredible value and I have no regrets on the purchase. The car is refined yet powerful in a way that no other sedan in the 20s (real world price) can touch. The torque is always available and free flowing and lets the car cruise at highway speeds effortlessly. Mileage is acceptable on the freeway, quite bad (10 or so mpg) in stop and go. The interior doesnt match the exterior style-wise and there are a few cheap plastic bits but I can live with it and the styling is nowhere near as tacky as some past Pontiacs. Big flaw is passenger seat does not go back far enough for taller people. Car was delivered with warped rotors.

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  Saved my life - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By thankful - July 7 - 2:23 am

  Only had 5400 miles mine when a tractor trailor hit me and drove me off the road and the car rolled over. The car is a total loss, but I walked away without a scratch. not only was this a great car to drive, it saved my life. I plan to go out and get 2009 G8 as soon as the insurance claim is settled.

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  My G8 Toy - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Ken - June 27 - 2:06 pm

  Purchased this vehicle in February.I am thoroughly pleased with decision to buy it. This is the 1st Pontiac I have ever owned. Im looked at the BMW 3 series, Infinity and the Mercedes C300. The performance of this vehicle is stunning...it grips curves like like glue. The ride is even better than I expected for a sports sedan. The body style is an eye catcher and turn quite a few heads when I ride by. Thus far gas mileage is a combo of city-highway of 22 mpg Cons: would like to have had a home- link transmitter and better access to adjust the drivers seat.

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  Awsome ! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Pammiesue1 - June 25 - 12:23 am

  I just picked up my new 09 . I love it ! Very fast, fun, and looks hot ! I had a Lexus RX 330 fot trade which I was very happy with, but this is the car . I like it better than my old Lexus IS 300 . Lots of room. Bluetooth would be the only thing I would like to have. It seems well built and sturdy . I am happy with my first American car ! 100% I would buy again

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  Former GTO Owner - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Rob - June 15 - 4:16 am

  I traded my GTO for the G8. Much smoother and quieter and feels quicker around town. No problems so far, have owned for just over 2 months. Lots of room. Stereo speakers could be of better quality and wished the interior was available in other colors besides black. Interior looks good though and seats are very comfy. Really like the car and glad I bought it. Very fun to drive. No regrets.

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  first 1000 miles down - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By admonite - May 20 - 1:36 pm

  I love the car. It has excellent looks. Has the best quality feel of any car Ive owned American or Import. The power is excellent. I opted for the 6 cylinder and it is actually more powerful than I need. I took a drive this morning with 5 full grown adults in the car and it still pushes everyone back into their seats accelerating with normal driving.

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  Great after 7 months - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By kselbig - May 7 - 4:56 pm

  Posted earlier, loved it then, love it now. Very disappointed that Pontiac will be going away. Buy one of these cars if a car for you is not just a means of transportation. It is a blast to drive, even in V-6 form. I got the upgraded interior and 6 disc CD player. I have received as many compliments about this car as my 2000 Corvette, maybe more.