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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  Wonderful - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Eldin - January 30 - 7:53 am

  Just when I was thinking about switching to an import I walked into a Pontiac dealership in Grand Rapids, MI. The customer service was great and I drove out with my brand new 2004 GP GT2. I absolutely love the car. Only thing i would note is that fuel efficiency is awsome. There were times where I could do up to 400 miles per tank on HWY. Car handles awesome even in recent winter storms that we had in Michigan. Only thing I would change about it is the interior design where to my taste the designer did not pay much attention to the details. Yes wheel is nice and so is the control board, but I believe when a car costs you 25K enterior should be not good but astonishing. Still a HOT ROD.

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  Great Prix - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Wish - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Love this car! Especially the throaty purr of the engine!

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  Cant beat it for the price! - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By HAPPY-GXP-GUY - January 24 - 4:06 pm

  Wanted a family sized four door that had a bit of performance. BMWs, Infinitis and all the others were too small, under powered and 30% to 40% more in price. It is definitely not as refined as those cars listed above, but I am not spending my kids college money on a car either. My last Grand Prix went 8 years and 160,000 trouble free miles, i hope this does the samne.

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  Worth the money - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Drew Walen - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy my Grand Prix, but have to say that as Ive neared 100,000 miles, it has more and more little things breaking down. Temp sensors, ABS sensors, an oil light sensor that wont shut off, LED windshield display fades in and out, shift knob broke off, mirror joystick slipped into the door jam, backing plates, and now some strange whirring noise that I cant figure out. Up until recently, this was my dream car. Now, its simply a good used car with some issues. For power, comfort, style and extras, this car was a hit. Just wish it held together a bit better.

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  Comfortable car - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By midliferacer - January 24 - 10:00 am

  One of the best handling cars I have ever driven. Acceleration is great. Seat comfort is excellent. Only trouble I have had in 4 years is the computer control module for the transmission. It had to be replaced at 37000 miles. Since it was so close to the end of warranty, GM contributed a portion of the cost to replace this item. Exterior styling still attracts attention, even after 4 years.

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  Nice Car - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Art Phippsa - January 23 - 11:43 am

  The way this car handles,rides and preforms makes it a thrill to drive. The interior is very comfortable and just adds to the fun. This car can compete with any of the imports that Ive had over the last 10 years.

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  GP/GT is an Awesome Car. - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Frankie T - January 21 - 2:33 pm

  My Grand Prix is a 2007 GT model with all the options. The Monsoon Stereo with the Six CD Player has been a pleasant surprise. The Monsoon system has Great sound and Balance. I have the Purple Haze Metallic paint with the Sun Roof and Custom Tail pipes. The cars appearance is a Head Turner. The Remote Start, Heated seats and Dual climate control are Great during the Winter Months. The 3800 Series III is an extremely reliable engine. In combination with the Eaton Generation V Supercharger and Electronic throttle control you always have instant Power when you need it. I really like the interior with the stitched leather seats and a Real Cockpit feel for the driver. Much better then the G6.

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  Grand Prix GPX - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By RichInFla - January 17 - 6:16 pm

  Quick, agile, fun to drive! Garners plenty of looks, and glares from other drivers when you beat them off of the line!

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  Great Car - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By JUAN ALFARO - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Great car over 106000 miles and only had to replace gasket that was leaking for about $400.00 normal for gm cars Im told, but other than regular maintance very reliable car. My next car will be Grand Prix GT or GTP. Dont miss out on great car.

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  Great machine for an older car - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By jazbo01 - January 11 - 10:57 pm

  Bought this car to drive to work, at first i felt i paid too much but after putting 20k on it and having NO issues.. and no rust, it was a great deal! Good fuel economy, good power-no fears when passing. Big, heavy, solid car..the way I like em! Has 140K on it and it runs, and drives like new, rides great and with snow tires will go where my truck will! Very glad I bought a Grand Prix, would do it all over again! you cant beat the 3.8 for power and reliability. if you are considering buying an inexpendsive used car definately look at a grand prix you wont regret it!