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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  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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  The Problems Ive Had with any Pontiac - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By George Kruk - June 14 - 6:26 am

  Ive had my car in the shop now 6 times to fix the front suspension. There is a huge clunking noise whenever I go over bumps. The entire front suspension has been replaced (1 control arm, both struts and all the linkage) and the problem is still there. Did I mention that I only have 30K miles on the car. I miss my 2004 Grand Prix GTP, hands down a better car. As soon as the suspension is fixed I am getting rid of this car.

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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.

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  This car almost killed my wife twice - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By mannheimer6 - April 15 - 1:53 am

  Twice now, unexplained and unfixable shut downs from 70 to 0 MPH in the middle of I-75 and I-4 respectively. We were told loose connector at B+ bulkhead terminal for fatal flaw excuse number 1. Now it is an overheating fuel pump module for fatal flaw excuse number 2. Letters to CEO GM sent. Car is now 2.5 hours away after Onstar recovered it. No matter what I am told about this car, we shall never trust it again, nor drive it again, and as far as we are concerned it can rot where it is, or I can park it right through the windows of a GM dealership and walk away. We are done with GM. Forever. DO NOT BUY HERE.

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  It only gets better - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Rod - April 12 - 4:20 am

  Am going on 5 months with my G8 GT experience. There are minor flaws I have found if you can call them flaws. The most exciting one is that when you step on the gas in anyway less than very gentle it responds like a startled cat, it flat jumps and screams for red line. I have also noticed that once I shift into sports mode or manual mode and stand on the throttle, the car changes from a docile car to a beast, and seems to stay that way till I shut it off and drive it again. It may be a glitch in my G8s computer. I will not go get this if it is a glitch.. I love it. This car loves to be driven. If you love driving you will love this car. It rocks!

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  2009 Pontiac G8 4dr Sedan ( 3.6 6cyl ) - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Chris - April 9 - 8:40 am

  Two Thumbs up!! Have owned several luxury cars before. ( BMW 300 series as well as a Lexus ) The Pontiac G8 Rules! One of the quietest cars that I have ever been. G8 also in the V6 has some " Get up and go" power! I have gotten so many compliments on this car.

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  Great Car, Great Deal - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Overjoyed - April 4 - 5:36 am

  I had been waiting for this to happen for some time. And it was worth it. I looked long and hard at the competition - Malibu, Accord, Altima, Camry, Sonata, Lucerne, etc. but this was the winner. I didnt buy it for the rear wheel drive, but for the size and style. It is very sporty looking, agressive even. The interior is clean, uncluttered, and straightforward. The switch gear location, designed to make the switch from right hand drive in Australia, to left hand drive in the US takes some getting used to, but it isnt too big a deal. I am extremely happy so far, and so glad to be ride of my 2002 Camry. This is a much more exciting car.