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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  GTP is an AWESOME Car! - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By bon - May 6 - 10:00 am

  The performance, comfort, feel, and reliablity of this vehicle is unmatched. Blows the doors off any imports out there in body design and power, and still maintains a reasonable gas mileage to coincide.

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  A little disappointed... - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By ADIDAS10 - May 5 - 3:20 am

  First of all I take very good care of my cars. I just wanted to say that first. I had the car a year and a half and had to have the transmission replaced. That took 4 trips and an act of congress to get that done. I actually had to go to a different dealer. The car just turned 3 and the CD play stopped working. To me there is no accuse for that. On the plus side, I love the way the car looks and handles. I hope Pontiac doesnt screw it up with the redesign in 03.

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  Dont know what your missing - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Willard Jones - May 1 - 2:20 pm

  First I dont know why I dont see more of these vehicles on the road. I traded a 2005 grandprix GT for this model and it is a totally different experience. The power is awesome, its definitely there when you need it. Handling is great. I really enjoy traveling with the GXP. It gives a smooth quiet ride and along with the premium sound system its a joy. I chose a cherry metallic color for this car and Im constantly getting excellent comments on the color and the style.. Now nothing is perfect. The rear seating is a bit tight. Im 63 and I need the seat all the way back, leaving little or no leg room for the back seat.

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  Dont Like it - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Wade Buchanan - April 25 - 12:50 am

  It may be supercharged but it still didnt do it for me. I test drove one and I would rather have a supercharged Mustang or Camaro. Just my opinion though.

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  Perfect car in every way - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By roger sudut - April 22 - 9:33 pm

  Had this car for 5 years & I still look forward to driving it.For something with such good exceleraton that gets 30.5mpg/24 city who would what a 4 cyl thats not half as fun to drive. I can leave my SUV at home and still haul 8 2x4s with the folding pass. & rear seats. The only problem in 5 years were a water leak @ On-Star antenna & front seat cover tear.Car is tight,no rattles or wind noise just sorry to see Pontiac going away.

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  Reliable Car ~ So sad to see it go.... - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Jasmine Primas - April 21 - 3:54 pm

  I had this car fora about a year, and I bought it at 180,000 miles on it....quiet, ran like new! I had absolutely no problems with this car besides regular maintenance like oil change, tire rotation, the usual stuff. I wasnt a big fan of the dark teal colored pain job, and interior is pretty boring, but the quality of this car is a keeper for sure! **Im sorry, I was at the shop one time, this is when I first bought it, I had to get my water pump replaced, but that was it...

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  Like my old car better - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By moms ride - April 19 - 4:50 am

  I have had the car a few months and I have to say I miss my 1999 Grand Prix GTP. I regret selling it to buy the 2006 Grand Prix GXP I have now. My old car handled much better and had GREAT fuel economy. 25-30 mpg for my daily driving. The GXP is getting tops 18 mpg. This is WAY under what I was told. The full size pickup with the same motor is getting 20 mpg. I also have lots of rattles and squeaks in the interior. It is also dogging and is missing. I am actually thinking about selling it already. I love the overall look of the car. It is a definite head turner. Guess I just got the bottom of the pile on this one.

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  Excellent Quality - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Dave- - April 13 - 10:00 am

  This is a well-built fun to drive car with good acceleration. Only car Ive owned with little/no problems.

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  Great car all around - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Rich of Ballwin - April 13 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car! Fun to drive because it handles so great. Very comfortable and very good gas mileage. About 20 around town and 29-33 on the road. Many compliments on looks, etc. We do all our travelling in it with the longest trip being about 6000 miles. No problem with 4 adults on long trip. Very reliable so far. We have 25000 miles on it. The 3.8 is a fabulous engine. Plenty of zip and great mileage. I usually trade every 3-4 years but my wife would kill me if I sold this one.

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  Gran Prix GTP Limited Edition, 2004 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By J. M. Miller - April 13 - 10:00 am

  I recently bought my first Grand Prix because I wanted a sports sedan instead of a sports car. The Grand Prix fit all the requirements: looks and sounds like a sports car yet can carry another couple when necessary. The wide track handling reduces body roll and, with the supercharged engine, makes it a fun car to drive. As my husband says, "It really scoots!"