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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  Incredible package!! - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By KaiserM715 - October 21 - 7:30 pm

  My wife and I have put about 1000 miles on our G8. It is FANTASTIC!! The acceleration is brisk, the handling is crisp and the interior is excellent. The look of the car is somewhat European (or Aussie!!). The fit and finish and ergonomics are all excellent. The leather with the premium package has an excellent feel. The seats are very comfy on road trips and the back seat leg room is generous. The steering wheel with the sport package feels very nice in your hands. The car is a great value, a lot of features and a lot of car for the money.

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  4 door family vette - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By BobK - October 17 - 1:40 pm

  I had a Monte Carlo SS which was a great car but I really wanted a V8 sport sedan with rear wheel drive 4 doors and a generous trunk. When the G8- GT came out I waited until the 2009 model and purchased a GT with the sport package and the premium package. This car is everything that I wanted. Great looks. outstanding power, superb handling, exceptional braking, comfortable interior with plenty of room for everybody. I have the color Pacific Slate, which brings many compliments. This car is the best bang for the buck when you compare apples to apples. I am a strong supporter of GM and their products. My wife loves the on star system and the xm radio.

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  Great - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Chase413 - September 27 - 1:00 pm

  The car is great, could not have asked for a better vehicle from GM. Had an 07 SS impala before and they improved just about everything i didnt like about the impala. the handling, suspension, rear wheel drive, its just a smooth ride with everything you would need in a car and the ability to get up and go with cars that cost a good deal more. (ex: Taurus sho for 40 something, g8 gt for less than 30)

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  For folks tired of European car prices! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Todd - August 27 - 9:16 pm

  This car is the perfect replacement for people, like me, who are tired of the ever increasing price of Audis, BMWs, Volvos etc.. No price gouging on the options packages either. There are only three options, and they are all very reasonably priced. Just try to get a Sports Package on a European car for under $600! The car is an incredible value. Fast, great handling, great build quality, great looking. Also very quiet and comfortable. Ive had M3s, 3 Series, 5 Series, SAABs and my last car was a Volvo S60R. This car shames them all, and at this price its a knock out in the first round!

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  Wow - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Don P - August 20 - 7:30 am

  Been watching and reading about this car for months. Finally got to see it and test drive it on a rainy night. Amazing performance, handling, ride and comfort. Has just the right features and accessories to make it the perfect car. What a treat to drive. Absolutely the most exciting vehicle Ive ever owned. A good value, even at MSRP.

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  GTO + G6 = G8 GT - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Jay - July 30 - 3:30 am

  I have never had so much fun driving a car ever in my life. I drive like an old man in my G8 GT. Reason being if you hit the accelerator, she will fly!! But when you cruise, the G8 is quiet and smooth. The bucket seats will sink you in for a very comfortable ride. I love the armrest leveled with the controls in the middle for a different feel. Also I love the twitch that shakes from 6.0 V8 time to time from the as you sit in idle at a light. I never felt so good driving an automobile in my life. I have my Corvette for the fraction of the price!! GM has finally answered our prayers for a muscle car!!

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  Wonderful Automobile! - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Andrew G - June 28 - 2:50 pm

  I went to the dealer to purchase a G6 GT sedan after looking at many other mid-sized vehicles. While waiting for the sales person, my wife and I looked at a G8 sedan parked on the lot. One test drive later, we were driving it home. I purchased this car for work (sales) where I drive hundreds of miles daily. With all of the freeway work being done and a particularly harsh winter, the roads are brutal but the G8 does a nice job of smoothing out the bumps without sacrificing a tight, controlled ride and excellent handling. Plus, my clients, many of them 6+, are very comfortable in the back seat. The styling is also very sporty without looking "boy-racer"- ish. Nice job, Pontiac!

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  You would be MAD not to love it - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By David - June 8 - 12:06 am

  After looking at all the pros and cons I decided the pros won out. This car is not only comfortable, refined, with great handling it is also economical, at least on highways. However if you use your right foot to much the gas mileage will suffer. The performance is unbelievable when you push the gas pedal, it just forces you back in the seat. At a constant 70 mph the mpg is around 28. Good job GMC

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  A treat to drive - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By BHuge - May 24 - 9:10 am

  I have always been the type of person who dreaded driving. It was just never any fun. Since we got this car I drive everywhere. I am 63" and there is plenty of room for me up front and plenty of room for my children in the back.

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  Pontiact: Say it aint so! - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By jjg - May 12 - 1:46 am

  This car snaps. Its tight and comfortable. One does not know what it has to offer until one drives it. It is fun and fast, and unassuming: No one knows what it it until it roars in speed if not sound! The premium sports model keeps one interested; and OH! How I love the DIC, in all its guises. Please transfer this gem to chev It is different enough from the crouched, sporty Camero to deserve a life of its own. If it goes to Buick, expect it to be 4or 5K more expensive. Perhaps, it needs its own,new brand! Dont let this baby archive. GM would be absolutely insane.