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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  99 GTP 2door - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Royfact - September 19 - 4:30 am

  For what is otherwise a basic GM offering, the GTP has turned out to be a pretty decent car. The styling will never be classic but it looks reasonable. The interior design is better than average for GM offerings. I especially like the Heads-up display and the steering wheel controls. The seats are comfortable and easily adjusted. The car is good off the line but great in the midrange with its supercharger. The engine isnt sweet-sounding like some, but its rock-solid reliable. Gas mileage is about 22.5 mpg in 40/60 city/highway driving.

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  Vroom vroom - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Stacey - September 17 - 8:10 pm

  I just bought an 06 Grand Prix GXP and this car is not only gorgeous to look at, but its a blast to drive. Ive had quick vehicles in the past, but the acceleration and power or this car is amazing. I bought a red one with 35,000 miles so its just broken in. I love to small details that make it unique, the red brakes, the mini fog lights, the Monsoon sound system, and the remote start. What a great car!

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  Awsome new design - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Everett - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had the car for one month, but it is the best car for long term driving that I bought to date. I travel over 750 miles weekly and have not been uncomfortable yet. Should have bumped up the stereo option, but Ill just get an aftermarket one itstalled for less. Love the power to pass on the highway.

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  NICE CAR COOL COLOUR - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By the boss - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Love the gp first new GM product for me the fusion orange is great, and one of the reasons I leased this car. Good ride, gas mileage, room, no complaints in over 7000 miles over 11,000 km.

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  Comp G Package - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Bob-onit - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Great car,highly recommend,fast,dependable,fun to drive

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  Great Car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Pontiac Fan 19 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I recently traded a 02 BMW 330Ci for a Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, I am extremly satisfied with the performance and build quality. I feel it is better than the BMW, and certainly a better value.

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  Great Car - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By John - September 10 - 6:46 am

  More standard features than the Charger was a huge selling point for me. Anyone complaining about the gas mileage didnt do their homework before they bought. For a large V8 it gets me 19 in mixed driving and as much as 30 on the open road. No issues with torque steer due to the larger front tires. Love the HUD and Monsoon stereo.

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  pontiac gran prix - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By mel ryan - September 8 - 12:13 pm

  I really like the car. Except for a few discrepancies I would give it a ten. Had to bring it back to the dealership three times for a water leak on the windshield, front breaks had to be replaced and a whistling noise from the engine. Noise was comming from the generator and not under warranty. It would cost me about three hundred dollars to replace or just put up with it. I chose the latter.

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By eric116 - September 1 - 7:16 pm

  I love this car. I bought it only for $100 dollars back in April after I traded in my 03 impala for it, yes i know I downgraded to a 2000, but the Impala was starting to rust and the Grand Prix had no rust and Ive always wanted a GP and it always slipped through my grasp until now. The only problem I have had with the GP is the windsheild has a crack in it, not the big of a problem being that it is not in my line of sight. Plus my ac and heating had a weird problem where the drivers side only blew hot air even with the ac on but the passengers side worked just fine at first but it corrected itself right before summer.

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  Excellent car. Try it, you may buy it! - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Classical MusicLover - August 26 - 12:56 am

  I was not in the market for this car until my very wise brother-in-law recommended I take one for a test drive. I traded in my Toyota Avalon that day. This car is very quiet. It handles on rails. I needed a car that had a lot more zip than the Toyota and I found it. I have been a long time buyer of imported cars and while many of those who work at the same University I do smile when I say I bought a Pontiac, I have the last laugh!