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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  15 months and still Love it - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Rod - August 12 - 11:23 pm

  I have had my G8 GT for 18 months and it just gets better. In the late 60s O had a Plymouth Road Runner. The working mans inexpensive Muscle Car. No the in thng is a Performance Sports Sedan. The G8 GT is the Road Runner of Sports Sedan. It is a car that the Poor working Slob can afford and have a Performance Sedan that may not be as plush as a BMW 5 series, but in performance, it can hang with it.

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  Satisfied G8 owner - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Ray - August 8 - 5:33 pm

  Sorry to see Pontiac fade away when they finally have a fleet of good and exciting vehicles to sell. I hope some of the legacy will be picked up and rebadged under Chevy or Buick. The G8 hit the sweet spot for me.

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  What a shame - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By vegassam66 - August 2 - 2:33 am

  Just bought my first American car in 25 years and I come to find that GM is killing it. No wonder they are bankrupt. GM listen to your customers not the bean counters. I have just bought mine three days ago and an in love with it. The performace for the dollar is second to none, and I dont mind driving in rush hour traffic.

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  Best dollar per pound USED high proformence vehicle - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By randallel - July 24 - 5:52 pm

  Pound for pound this is the best car for you the price. The V8 is powerful and responsive, tires get great grip, good handling the weight ratio is almost 50/50 which helps the suspension and handling but if you have the option the fe3 suspension on the GXP is better. The fact that you can buy one for under 20K and the car is competitive to hang with last model Camaros and Mustangs that are twice the price tag is the best reason to buy this car.

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  Month 4 with a G8 GT - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Rod - July 17 - 11:33 am

  Starting month 4 with the G8. I am getting comfortable with all of the switches. This car has proven that all of the press hype is not hype, it is fact. It is the best value that any car manufacturer has on the market for the price. If you want a real car, with real performance, room and quality this is the car. You can spend twice the money and get something like and buy a 5 series BMW, or you can buy the G8 GT get the same performance and have lots of money left over to bay the person at the gas pump. I love American Iron so I will pay at the gas pump instead of at the dealer. I vote to make Australia the 51st state.

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  Stryker Blue Streak - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Stryker Bluestreak - July 12 - 10:06 pm

  I just bought a 2009 G8 GT, Stryker blue. The color was chosen by my wife, I wanted Panther black but I am getting used to it! The car rides very well in comparison to my 2004 GTO. The ride is firm but not as harsh as the GTO. I have not really pushed the G8 yet but I expect great performance. Fit and finish are very good. My wife has received many compliments on the cars appearance. It has sleek and muscular lines. Difficult to combine but the G8 has them. I looked at the new CTS but the G8 offered a V8, Cadillac didnt, plus, at a lower price point ($10K). I looked at several imports, but I have bought American for over 25 years. Congratulations to GM for importing this fine car.

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  G8 GT - The Car I Didnt Know I Wanted - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By DaveK - June 18 - 11:16 am

  I thought my next new vehicle would be a compact electric or diesel SUV, until an unplanned test drive of the 09 Pontiac G8 GT placed it in my driveway. It is more than the silky power that keeps a smile on my face, and makes me find more excuses to drive more often. Over 3600 of the 6000 km in the first month of ownership was on a single round trip over mountain highways. Fully loaded with family treasures, we averaged 9.1 L/100 km. Great seat design and driving position allowed two daily legs of 1100 km with complete comfort. The handling inspires confidence and low stress on the twisties and road irregularities. All features demonstrate thoughtful, quality design and manufacturing care.

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  Fun Fast and ALL its cracked up to be! - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By BruceUSA - June 12 - 5:56 am

  So far so good. All of the advertising leading up to the introduction of this car has been right on point. The balance of handling and the pure power of the V8 combine to make this the best performance bargain out there. GM has always had a little numb steering, even in the two Vettes Ive owned. This car has the spot on steering feel that performance cars should have and driving becomes a pure pleasure once again! The fit and finish are world class and the few quirks (as with any car even my 2004 Porsche 911 Targa) are not all that big of a deal. Home run Pontiac! Go test drive one and youll want to buy it.

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  YES! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By xruling - June 9 - 1:56 pm

  Any criticism of the car becomes the smallest "administrivia" when you push down the gas pedal. Mine is very reliable, comfortable, devoid of irritating quirks or noises. Im thrilled with this car. Wish I had another one "in reserve."

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  The G8 is great! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By G8Keeper - June 6 - 7:03 pm

  This car is simply an amazing value. It is extremely powerful, roomy, suave and tons of fun to drive. Its family friendly too! Go buy one, what are you waiting for!?