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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  Great Car - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By RonNV - April 22 - 2:10 pm

  I have driver this car for about seven months. Some computer chip issues which were resolved by the dealer. I got big 19 inch snow tires for this baby since it is not really driveable in snowy weather. That reduced the mileage factor slightly. I used to have a problem accessing the highway ramp in my old Buick Park Avenues. With this car you have zero problem..regular or snow tires the cars acceleration is nothing less than fantastic. It is hard to explain but there is a confidence factor that you have with this car. You know that you can pass virtually any car out there. The brakes are excellent and versatility in emergency situations is really good.

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  Great First Impression - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By StevenE - March 24 - 1:33 am

  I was lucky enough to pick up a brand new (45 miles) red G8 in Minneapolis for a week long drive around No. MN, WI and MI Upper Peninsula. I put 1100 miles on the odometer and developed a great first impression of this car. It is tight, corners superbly, handles great and drives like a car much smaller than its size. GM really got this one right! Acceleration wasnt outstanding with the V6, but balanced against gas mileage, it offered plenty for everyday, long term driving. I averaged almost 24 mpg for the 1100 miles in combination of driving including pushing it pretty hard on some back roads and freeways. Nice car...Ill have this one on my shopping list.

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  Great Car - Never Stops Giving! - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By GregD - March 18 - 6:46 pm

  I have owned this car for almost 8 months and I love it! I traded a 2005 Bonneville GXP, and I did not expect such a great deal from the G8 but, it keeps on giving. The styling, comfort, handeling and cool navigation system are always a good reason to look forward to driving this car. Oh yeah, the Sport Drive is great when you are looking for a thrill! Hopefully GM will keep Pontiac, if not only for the G8, this is the best car and it would be a shame to see it go. Finally, the consumer can own a really terrific car at a great price.

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  The best Pontiac has out there - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Keaton - February 19 - 1:46 am

  Basically a $30,000 BMW 5 series. This is the nicest car Pontiac has ever put out. People keep asking me if it is the new designed. It is nothing like it. Pontiac built it differently from the ground up. Almost a perfect 50/50 weight distribution makes this car handle better than most. And the styling is very up to date, but does not resemble any other car out there. I would suggest at least a test drive from anybody. If you look at this car like any other old Pontiac you will definitely sell yourself short!

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  Fun to Drive - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Tyson - February 10 - 5:00 pm

  This car is fun to drive, handles well, and gets relatively good gas mileage. So far I have about 1600 miles on it. I wish it is not being discontinued with Pontiac. I wouldnt mind replacing my Grand Prix with another G8.

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  Best of the best - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By jshaag - December 30 - 6:40 am

  I have owned 4 previous Pontiacs and this is by far the best ever. Incredible power for a "family sedan". Smooth acceleration and amazing pick up. My friend just bought a BMW a few months prior and he envies my Pontiac. Fuel economy is what you would expect with this much power.

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  Finally - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By BJames - December 15 - 11:23 pm

  Pontiac gets it right this time. Really the Aussies do. Fast, refined, comfortable beast! What an American muscle car sedan should be. Can compete with the Euro boys and blow them away. Excellent build quality. I have a little over 1100 miles and look forward to driving it every single day.

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  8 months and still loving it - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Rod - December 9 - 11:46 pm

  8 Months and 8000 miles and still love this G8 GT. Last month we had the worst snow storm in Oregon in years. The remote start and the heated seats made it a lot better to get out in it. With $1100 invested in studless snow tires I got every where I needed to go, the limited slip and traction control made driving in the snow no big problem. If GM does close down Pontiac, I hope that they also start importing the Holden Commador SS, or put the G8 in the Buick line-up. This is to good a car to just let die.

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  So much car, so few back roads - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By candaceo - December 2 - 8:43 am

  I looked at the 08s in May but so glad I waited to get a Pacific Slate 09. This car is the perfect balance between performance and price and brings back all the passion and enthusiasm for driving that the recent choices between fuel economy or expensive luxury have deprived us of. Driving is fun, fast and effortless and I honestly dont care about no nav since getting there in this car is all the fun.

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  See ya! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Nick - November 9 - 10:00 am

  My GXP is a garage queen. 3000 miles after 15 months. BUT it has been slightly modified. Kooks headers, Vararram cold intake, cat delete, SLP supercharger, engine tune and trans tune. It is simply the greatest sleeper ever. A 4 door sedan that can blow just about anything off the road! If you like 500 HP at the rear wheels, this is the way to go. Keep in mind Fly wheel HP doesnt tell the whole story! All these inflated HP numbers are at the Fly Wheel. They made me rate fuel economy. WHO CARES? At this performance level and low miles driven, it does not matter.