Overview & Reviews

The Pontiac Grand Prix started out as a personal luxury car in the early 1960s. Back then, personal luxury meant a big coupe with a big V8 and a stylish interior, usually featuring plush bucket seats and a floor shifter. Exterior design bordered on flamboyant at times, but the Grand Prix made no apologies for its unabashed sense of American style and performance.

In more recent times, the Pontiac Grand Prix offered consumers a sensibly sized family coupe or sedan, with plenty of performance on tap thanks to the availability of peppy V6 engines or even a powerful V8. Styling continued to be a draw, with a sweeping roof line and the signature twin-grille nose. Unfortunately, another hallmark of the Grand Prix was an overly plasticky interior, with various switches and knobs typically rendered in gray plastic that looked more Fisher-Price than General Motors. Pontiac improved the interior toward the end of the Grand Prix's run, but it still couldn't hold a candle to the high-quality interiors of its import-brand rivals.

Would the Grand Prix be a good choice for a family vehicle? That depends on what dad (or mom) wants. If performance is paramount and a smallish backseat is not a problem, then a used GP deserves a look. On the other hand, if high-quality fit and finish and roomy rear quarters are more important, then the import competition will be a better match.

Most Recent Pontiac Grand Prix

The last-generation Pontiac Grand Prix debuted in 2004 and was terminated after 2008. It benefited from a refined engine lineup, fine-tuned ride and handling characteristics and a more driver-friendly cockpit with large gauges and, for the most part, simple controls. The coupe was dropped, leaving the sedan as the lone body style.

There were two trim levels for the Grand Prix's last year of production in 2008 -- base and GXP. The base model came with a 200-horsepower V6 as well as 16-inch wheels, OnStar, a CD player, cruise control, air-conditioning, keyless entry, and power windows and mirrors. The GXP included a 303-hp V8, firmer suspension tuning, performance tires, a head-up display, unique trim and 18-inch alloys. Leather seating and automatic dual-zone climate control were optional.

Performance, even in the base model, was satisfying, and got quite a bit stronger from there. Although the V8-powered GXP provided a thrilling rush of power, torque steer was a problem with this front-drive chassis. Sadly, the abundant power infusion wasn't enough to keep the Grand Prix wholly competitive. Compared to the top sport-oriented sedans, the Pontiac felt unrefined in terms of handling dynamics and cabin fitments.

Prior to the 2008 model year, the last-generation Grand Prix was available in a GT trim level that featured a supercharged 260-hp V6, 17-inch wheels and some features that were options on the base model. For buyers interested in a used Grand Prix, we would recommend the GT over the other trims because of its balance of power, fuel economy and handling.

Past Pontiac Grand Prix Models

The previous-generation Pontiac Grand Prix was built from 1997-2003. Available as either a sleek coupe or a handsome four-door sedan, this Grand Prix offered brisk acceleration and a tight suspension for a relatively affordable price. The supercharged 3800 V6 debuted with this generation (in the GTP trim) and offers a great combination of power and fuel efficiency. Downsides include a somewhat raucous power delivery, a harsh ride over rough surfaces (in GT and GTP models), cheap interior materials and needlessly complex controls. Still, consumers have given this generation high marks in terms of performance, handling, fuel economy and style. It should be noted that this generation's base model had slightly different (and less sporty) front and rear styling from the GT and GTP models.

Prior to that, there was the 1988-'96 generation, available in both coupe and sedan body styles. This car was a bit smaller and its styling went overboard in the body-cladding area. Typical of many GM products, this Grand Prix's strengths lay in its powertrains and performance, while weak points included cheap interior materials, overly busy controls and mediocre rear seat comfort.

From 1978-'87, the Pontiac Grand Prix was offered solely as a personal luxury coupe, which had been downsized from the excessively large cruisers of the '60s and '70s. But like those earlier GPs, this era's priorities were flashy styling and plush interiors. From a collector's standpoint, the 1962-'72 Grand Prix are most worthy of consideration, as powerful engines (such as the 421 V8 with tri-power carburetion) and eye-catching styling make them cruise-night favorites.

User Reviews:

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  I really Like my GTP - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By orwoody - December 5 - 2:00 am

  I previously owned a 2000 GTP and replaced it with a 2003 when a relative totaled it. I ran close to 50k miles with no problems and my 2003 is even tighter. No issues althouugh ive had it only a few months. I get many compliments and friends love to drive it. Its a lot of fun and I expect it to be as reliable as anything else on the road. I question the entry by "DONTBUYGM" as being a legitimate owners review.

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  GTP4ME - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By GTP4ME - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I was set on the Infinity G35. I owned a 98 GTP. I just wanted to see a GTP 2004 before I made the choice. I didnt like the look that much but I decided to drive it. The drive sold me. The tap shifts seperated the car from any other. The low end power was enough to spin the 17" tires for 30 ft even with traction control. The electronics displays are excellent. The Monsoon stereo was equal to any bose. On Star sweetened the deal. The design of the trunk and the fold down rear seats make the car very versatile and not matched by its competition. The fold flat front seat makes you wonder why this is not standard on all cars.

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  New Red..... looking good - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By turgeon - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I love the way the vehicle handles especially on turns with the Magnasteer. The 200 HP really gives you a needed boost when you get on the highway yet the vehicle still gets commendable gas mileage. I definitely like the comfort and feel.

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  Driving Experience - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Review - November 28 - 12:46 am

  I have looked around for a new vehicle, and this Pontiac has it all, the power, of the V8 and the great looks, I bought the Black one, I think that is the only color it looks good in, the ride is great, it could use more room in the back seat, the trunk space has alot of room, if you are looking for a new car, take a look at the Pontiac GXP,AND MOST OF ALL take it for a test ride, you wont be disappointed, this car has alot for the price.

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  Great Car - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Love Pontiac - November 27 - 3:50 am

  Had the car a few months now, and Ive loved every minute of it. Great engine and powertrain, Ive had no problems from it (almost at 100,000 miles). Handling is good, so are the brakes. I average about 20 mpg, and can go 2 weeks on one tank! Very fast (especially for a v6) will beat any v6 and many v8 muscle cars you run into. The interior is a little cheap, but love the boost gauge, hud, and the seats. Oh, and did I say its fast! Overall a great car!

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  Not worth what i payed for it - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By sullyhaute - November 26 - 9:10 am

  The interior design is cramped. I am only 6 ft. tall and I feel like i am way too big for this car. It will get up and go, but that is about the only thing good I can say, I have already had to replace turn signal bulbs, the paint is peeling off the front bumper and mirror covers. I had to replace exhaust clamps, I have to take it in for re-aligning. I would expect this from a old beater car. but this car still only has about 62,000 mile to date.

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  Great Car - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Tappan01 - November 24 - 11:20 pm

  This is my "4th" Grand Prix - and have loved each one I had. I cant believe they have stopped production of this model. This car has lots of power for the V6. Love the road-tight feel to the steering, but the traction control is not good at all. The car handles well in all weather and gets good gas mileage. Beautiful looking car and nice wheels on the GT model. Radio could be of higher quality.

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  SO CAL GTP - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By SO CAL GTP - November 24 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchesed my GTP and it is a blast to drive. Punch the gas, hear the supercharger whine and your doing 90 before you know it. The interior and exterior look excellent.

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  Great Car - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Great Car!!! - November 23 - 10:23 pm

  I love this car! I bought it in 1999 and it had 34,000 miles on it. Now it has approx. 113,000 miles on it. No real major problems at all. Some problems with power window motors. It hugs the road real nice and always has power when you need it.

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  Rock solid - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By DERRECK - November 18 - 11:06 pm

  I recently traded my saturn l300 for the grand prix gt and i am very satisfied. With the excepition of the tight back seat, i have no complaints. The interior is very roomy, but the backseat leg room is less than my old saturn. I got a great lease deal with incentives and my dads employee discount. The supercharged 3800 is smooth and strong and gets good fuel economy. I recomend this vehicle as an alternative to the everyday camry and accord.