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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  A Great Overall Vehicle - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By The_Hiz - March 14 - 6:20 pm

  I was immediately attracted to this vehicle by the aggresive appearance and promise of excellent performance from the supercharged engine. I have not been dissapointed after almost 10000 miles. Overall, this would be an excellent vehicle for someone more concerned about performance than rock-solid craftsmanship.

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  AWESOME! - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Kari Apel - March 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is an extremely fun and sporty vehicle to drive, especially for families. This is a terrific vehicle for all purposes-taking the kids on trips, hauling things with the fold down back seat, cool looking "mom" car yet luxurious at the same time. Couldnt get a better car for the price category and I doubt you could get much better if you increased! Pontiac has a good product in its inventory.

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  Fun Car - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Amanda Laffoon - March 10 - 7:40 pm

  This is the thrid Grand Prix I have owned and I love it as with the rest of them. They are very dependable, comfortable, and sporty. The handling is wonderful and it drives better than any other car in its class.

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  My Grand Prix Corners Great - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By KenZ - March 6 - 10:00 am

  I have been very impressed with the cornering ability of my Grand Prix. Other great options include the rear passenger doors that open 90 degrees and the two-tiered glove box. I also really enjoy the speed control stereo volume - when you go faster, the radio volume increases to accomodate road noise and when you go slower, the radio volume decreases. Acceleration is also tremendous.

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  My Pontiac - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Kolt - March 3 - 7:40 am

  I love this car! I never would have bought a Pontiac 10 years ago. The car is designed very well and the seats are very supportive. The ride is soft yet somehow sporty too. I love the throaty sound of the exhaust. Ive had three people in the last year comment on how they like the sound of my car. I often journey on 500 mile road trips and arrive refreshed. Now the back seat does feel like you are looking out from a well, but I prefer the seat right behind the steering wheel. The 28mpg rating is accurate. No hybrids for me when I can have the power and convienence of this engine. Hats off to GM for the first car Ive enjoyed in a long while.

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  GT Very Well Balanced-Rocks! - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Frankie - March 2 - 11:33 am

  Bought mine end of year with 15,000 miles on it. Never owned a Grand Prix prior to this. I have owned 4 GTOS. This is the quickest six out there. The Eaton Generation 5 Supercharger Rocks! With the heated seats, remote start, excellent stereo sound and stitched leather interior you cannot go wrong! Since the improvement in GM cars from 2000 going forward, I cannot see why the foreign market is so popular? I have driven the Hondas,Mazdas, etc and find you end up paying a lot more for what? Pontiac has a quality and exciting car here -a real sleeper. If you need too pass or merge on the interstate this car Rocks! Beats any six out there and a lot of the V8s. Excellent all around vehicle

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  05 Grand Prix - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By SDouglas - February 27 - 12:50 am

  I have been pleasantly surprised by the quality and comfort of my Grand Prix; havent had to take it back to the dealership for anything except routine maintenance which is pleasant surprise after dealing with numerous recalls & problems with my last 4 (new) vehicles. Also, I drive a lot of miles & still enjoy driving the Grand Prix after a year. LOVE the color - Fusion Orange Metallic, enough gray already!!

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  No better car - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Metalgod - February 14 - 10:00 am

  This car is great and fun to drive. Enough power, comfortable, easy handeling. there is plenty of room. Rides great and is very quiet. Would reccomeend this car to anyone. I will always stick with Pontiac as my car of choice.

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  Grand Prix Accolades - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By EagleArgy - February 8 - 2:00 am

  Very responsive, great power and comfortable is how I describe the 2004 Grand Prix-Comp GTP This is my second GTP and Pontiac has improved. The tap shifter takes a chapter from Ferrari and makes the car fun to drive. Engine is a tad noisy. Leather interior seems to be much better grade than in past.

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  Pontiac Grand Prix 2 Door GT - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Wiggles - February 6 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has been a thrill to drive, it really handles well, accelerates well, and is pleasure to drive. The only complaint is an annoying squeek in the dash and the power windows could be a bit more smooth. Everyone comments on how beautiful the Grand Prix is and friends always want to drive it.