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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  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.

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  Love driving again - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Pontiac Fan - April 3 - 11:16 am

  Believe the hype. This is a powerful and fun car to drive with comfort too. Thanks GM for bringing it to the states.

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  142 of 888 - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By 142 of 888 - March 18 - 10:53 am

  I decided a while ago never to buy an American car again. However I came home with a 4-door Corvette! Couldnt wait for the gxp and I must say this car is great! I wanted a Corvette or that new Camaro but its taking forever. It has a ton of interior room more than a charger srt8 which I drove. Gas mileage is okay but if I wanted better I should get a Toyota Prius!

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  Awesome drive - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Brenda - March 18 - 3:33 am

  Pontiac G-8 GT is my 3rd Ponitac, and by far the best. I had a 96 Grand Prix GT 2-door for 10 years, traded for a 06 Pontiac Solstice and traded for the 09 Pontiac G8. It is the best car Ive ever had, has everything you can possibly think of, design and interior is awsome at night. The best part is the performance, all I can say is wow.

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  Why buy a BMW? - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Hilbilly - March 11 - 4:53 am

  I am really impressed with my Pontiac G8-GT. Its a real rocket but it doesnt guzzle gas. It holds five easily, although I rarely ever have more than two of us in it. Most important, is the fact that it does everything my friends BMW 550 does at half the price. I was really impressed with how well its built and how solid it feels on the road. It handles very well and imparts a sense of confidence when I drive it. I guess if you need the snob appeal of a BMW then spend the extra $30K otherwise this G8-GT is a great buy. I had one of the first GTOs and this reminds me of it.

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  What a Pontiac - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By jeff - March 6 - 1:03 pm

  All i can say is this is the best car i ever owned. I cant understand why Pontiac didnt bring this car over sooner. I love the power of the v8 and the mpg are great for the engine size. This car to me handles better than the BMW 5 series. Pontiac needs to do a lot more advertising with this car. Its a 4 door vette. You cant go wrong with this one. It was sold before i even test drove it

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  Amazing! - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Jessica - February 17 - 2:50 am

  I bought this car 3 weeks ago and absolutely feel in love! It is the hottest car on the road. My fiance and I went out to eat and had a crowd of people stop and just want to look at what it was. No one has a clue that Pontiac has made such an outstanding car. THANKS GM!!!

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  Awesome Ride - 2009 Pontiac G8
  By Chris D - January 7 - 6:36 pm

  I bought this car to replace my aging Trans Am. I am completely overjoyed with this sporty sedan...perfect blend of speed and comfort. Everything about this car is outstanding, from appearance, to acceleration, to creature comforts, to gas mileage, and so on. The size of the car is just right for handling, while the space provided for the driver and adult passengers in more than sufficient. The trunk is huge! The best part (of course) is when my friends review the car and then stand in total amazement when I tell them the cost -- very reasonable for everything you get. I cant believe I dont see more of this caron the road...people dont know what theyre missing!