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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  a four door mustang? - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By big bill - June 3 - 10:53 pm

  I traded in a 2008 mustang GT with about 6,000 miles on for the G8 GT. it has nearly the same acceleration (but not the same exhaust note), much more room, and a less tacky (but still not sophisticated) dashboard. I like this vehicle but there are a lot of things done wrong - see suggested improvements below.

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  After 3 months - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Rod - June 2 - 3:56 pm

  I have had my G8 GT for almost w months know and the more I drive it the more I love it. Getting use to where all the switches are and comfortable with it. Only big expense besides gas has been a oil change. 8 quarts of Mobil 1 are not cheap. The more I drive this car the more impressed I am with it. Merging into freeway traffic can be almost frightening. Any thing more than 1/4 throttle and you are going from 45 mph to 80 mph in about two heartbeats. Even after 3 months it is still hard to get more than 16 mpg. I think that has something to do with that thing Pontiac puts under your right foot. It keeps sucking your foot to the floor and putting a smile on your face. LOL

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  Perfect - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Patrick - May 31 - 8:33 pm

  Absolutely a blast to drive. The power is always on tap, and the acceleration is fast yet smooth. The car sticks to the road very well, and though the suspension is sporty, its not overly stiff or uncomfortable. Some controls take a bit of getting used to, but after a month its not a problem.

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  Brilliant car that came too late - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By fuhteng - May 15 - 4:46 am

  I did my research about the sport sedan segment, and while originally looking at the BMW 335i and the G35/37, the G8 GT captivated me. It is bigger, much cheaper, and nearly as much fun. It was just what I was looking for. Owning it has been a delight. I have never had any problems with the car, and the car does everything I expect from a sports sedan, and does them all well. It is not a luxury car like the BMW and the G, but it is not supposed to be. The G8 GT is what Pontiac should have been all along.

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  Best Car I Have Owned. Fun, Fun, Fun! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By hitman1970 - March 23 - 5:43 pm

  I bought this car on 17 MAR 2009. After a test drive I was sold. The handling characteristics are fabulous. It looks great in Sport Metallic Red. This is one of those cars that people will still talk about in twenty years. Great value. Great performance.

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  Loving My Liquid Red G8 GT! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Mitch - February 24 - 3:56 am

  I bought this car after test driving a handful of cars. This one put all of them to shame, including a Camaro SS that I test drove! The interior is slick and once you get used to the climate and audio controls, its easy to get to the stuff you want. On the outside, the car looks absolutely fantastic. I love my 19" machined-face rims. I have gotten so many looks and so much attention from people! From stares on the street, to people staring at me from their cars, and even one guy pulling up next to me and honking at me to roll my window down so he could ask me about it! This baby hauls too! You will pay for all the fun with your gas, though. I dont know, I think its totally worth it!

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  pacific slate has been great - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Larry - February 21 - 8:00 am

  Update from 12-08,purchased new 9- 08.G8 continues to perform flawlessly,was able to do a home oil & filter change(simple no problem d riving on ramps).19 in tires were wearing more on out side of tires. had a 4 wheel allignment done underwarranty, hope that works, tires are pricey.Gas mileage has remained pretty constant averaging about 20 mpg in my mixed driving. Like some other reviews I really hope GM finds a way to save this car(Ihave faith in bob lutz)we have seriously considered a second g8., but at 67 I doubt it.

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  Did i pay too much? - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By rich - February 2 - 9:40 am

  I bought a red g8gt last week. List with options was $31,345. I got it for $30,000 even. I was expecting more of a discount, this close to year end. So far my questions/gripes - weird noises when you put it in reverse, especially from the steering gear and rear suspension. No satellite radio available. Faux carbon fiber dash doesnt like Armour all. The seat controls are chintzy. The radio off button isnt on the knob. Interior is a bit dark and depressing. Acceleration and braking are terrific though. The paint is normal red, not metallic?

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  Best Bang For The Buck Sedan/Sports Car - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By SRG963 - January 31 - 1:13 pm

  Nothing can touch the Pontiac G8 GT in the same price range for overall performance and comfort. The G8 is Pontiacs 7-series sized, 5-series handling, 1-series priced, 3-series BMW. With time it would have gone from a very good car to a great car. GM dropped the ball, big time, when they canceled the Pontiac brand. I only hope that they will bring the Australian Beast back. Regardless what brand it would fall under, or what they called it, I would purchase another one. Out of the 20 vehicles Ive owned, the G8 one is by far my favorite. It doesnt matter if Im looking at her in my garage, detailing her, or drifting her around some corners, she always brings a big smile to my face.

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  G8 GT is Simply Amazing - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By JT - December 15 - 10:23 pm

  What a shame. GM finally gives us this wonderful car, and POOF, it is no more. I purchased my 2009 G8 GT in June of 2009 after much thought and consideration. I ended up choosing this car over the BMW 550i. I am simply amazed by the car. The stupid grin that refuses to leave my face when I am driving the car is priceless. At 64" and around 300 lbs, I find the car very comfortable. There is also plenty of room in the back seat. This car is all about the drive. It handles amazingly well, and the acceleration will astonish you. I never thought I would buy a GM product, but I am so glad I did. I am now a reformed brand snob. I love this car!