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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  Decent Car - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By 3800 V6 - November 29 - 11:50 pm

  I bought this car because it was cheap and had the 3800 engine. I have had Bonnevilles and LeSabres and love this motor! Very glad they put it in a sportier car like the GP. Ive had it for two months and Ive had to replace the EGR valve because it kept stalling and an o2 sensor, but this is why I got it cheap! The car rides GREAT, even at 85 MPH and Im sure it could do more but I shouldnt abuse it any harder--it has 145,000 miles! Some worry about 100,000 miles--these cars will run forever. Really. But they do have some issues that arise; make sure you maintain them. One morning I couldnt get it out of park--took the console apart and tied the stupid shifter button down.

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  best car ever - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Moroccomole - November 27 - 2:00 am

  Its a great car, I love it.

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  Love this vehicle:-} - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By RAMS - November 27 - 2:00 am

  Thusfar, the only negative experience I have had are window rattles and the poorly designed trunk webbed gate which rarely holds items in place.

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  knock on wood (cant complain) - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By cant complain - November 26 - 5:03 am

  I have seen some of the reviews and have to say that either the only people giving the reviews are people who have had probs or im extremely lucky. Bought my 01 GP SE 2 years ago with almost 28k on it and now have 70k on it. Only prob was computer needed reset while still under warranty, new radio fuse. Ive had no major issues thankfully. I have had some noise occasionally when I start the car which hasnt been figured out but never had a prob starting the car. Gas mileage seems to be getting a little worse with age/more mileage. Piece holding glove box up when opened broke so now it falls out sometimes when opened. Thats it...minor at best. I would suggest this car for sure!

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  Supercharged fun & good mileage - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By tonkota - November 24 - 1:33 pm

  Very nice car for the money. GM needs to change the softy shifting for a car with this much torque. And I love the torque! The last highway trip I took with 4 adults we got 31mpg. Not bad considering the ups and downs and the weight of the passengers. Room enough for 4 pretty easy. The front seats fit me very well (Im a wider type of guy). 25k on it now, and no rattles yet.

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  Love my Grand Prix - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By mgcoupe - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my GTP Grand Prix. The supercharged engine is great when having to pass. The exterior design is very sporty. Once this one dies I plan on buying another one but hopefully not for a long time.

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  A real Import Intimidator - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Eddy - November 21 - 1:26 am

  I purchased this GT version being less than one year old at a great price. This car has solid feel with no lack of power when required. The interior design is comfortable with all the treats of leather, sunroof and power seat. I enjoy the ride on 17" tires as it handles well. I came from a Grand AM GT and this feels much better. I went on twisty roads on my way skiing and it was awesome, power to come out of corners on the uphill. You dont need to push this car as it comes on easy. I have had imports before and the 4 bangers dont do it. The V6s are over priced and limited supply. The fit and finish is top notch.

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  Great driving car - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By mikie22 - November 19 - 2:36 am

  Fantastic! Excellent handling and it gets better miles per gallon then the v- 6 I traded in (25mpg). Sport red is just right and Onstar is great.

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  Sporty family car ! - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Cameli family - November 16 - 10:00 am

  So far, we really enjoy this car ..... we have owned 3 other Pontiacs and never had any trouble with any of them. We love the new design of the 2004. It has more power than you would expect and it is a very smooth drive.

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  Great car and fun to drive - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By andrewsf27 - November 10 - 5:03 pm

  I have currently 32,000 miles on this car and it has absolutely been the best car that I have ever owned & I have had 12. I have only had a few issues which I have been able to get resolved with the dealer. I tinted the windows and with the dary grey color this car looks sharp.