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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  Cheap thrills - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By shmoke - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I just cant express my disdain for Christians review (Edmunds editor). He obviously has a terrible impression of this car and has obviously been presented with a bad example. Maybe Edmunds was provided with a "testers" example that had been flogged first by more "prestigious publications". I have not seen a Grand Prix that displays bad build quality, materials or design. The fit and finish are of great quality. "Harsh and un-refined"... The Grand Prix does indeed excite the senses. Everything from the sound of the engine, the firm yet supple ride and tactile feel of the controls - are all unique and appealing.

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  LOve, Love, Love This Car!!!! - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Lydia - February 12 - 11:23 pm

  Bought this car with 20k on it. Thnis is my third Pontiac. Have had some electrical problems with this car, typical Pontiac! Had the transmission replaced before warranty was up, only other thing replaced was alternator at 64k. Been very reliable car(s).

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  Great Car for the Money - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By AZEX - February 12 - 12:03 am

  When my 93 Geo Prizm died we needed a car, and fast. While the I was not excited about the Gran Prix at first I quickly saw for the money this was great buy. To get the 3800 V6 in a loaded Gran Prix was a steal compared to smaller foreign makes with 4 cylinders which were priced much higher than the Gran Prix. The car is fast, hugs the road, and is able to carry the family and all of our gear. The trunk is HUGE.

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  Hell of a car - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By iplayhockey24 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Nice car wish i had the GTP for the extra 40 hp but sweet car for the everday driver its a fun good looking car that has room the two door that has the leg room of a full size 4 is nice in some cases overall besides some minor problems with my last one the car in general has been great

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  What A Difference Tires Make! - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By richgimmel - February 7 - 3:13 pm

  I replaced the factory tires this week with Bridgestone Potenza RE960 Pole Positions and guess what... NO TORQUE STEER! This car is now amazingly fun to drive, and with a lot less road noise.

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  first new vehicle - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By lisa wooten - February 7 - 12:30 pm

  This is the first new vehicle I have ever owned. I have 2 grown sons and when my husband and I with the boys go on a trip we ride comfortably. My boys are not use to that. The car is the perfect size. I love the sporty look. I was amazed when the salesman showed me the car that he said it was a standard package. Compared to my other cars the Grand Prix was loaded. I am very happy with my Grand Prix. Keep up the great work.

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  dont buy - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By GMSKS - February 6 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has had issues since it was first purchased. Replaced 4 electric motors for the windows in the first two years of having it. Radio went bad just as the warranty expired (Pontiac did go ahead and replace though). Now engine acting up and dealership cannot determine problem. Next time, buy Japanese.

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  BAD ENGINE! - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By tears0fash666 - February 5 - 10:11 am

  First I owned the car for a month, had to replace the engine because oil wasnt going to one of the rods. Now, 2 years later, its sitting waiting to be sold for the same problem. Had about 100,000 on both engines. Had it in the shop all the time, it was never the easy things that were wrong either. I would not buy this car again.

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  Great vehicle - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By iamian - February 3 - 5:54 pm

  This vehicle performs much better then I had anticipated. I had heard so much about the torque steer during acceleration and was very pleased when I actually got behind the wheel and pounded the peddle a few times. There is a fair amount of torque steer but if you have both hands on the wheel its actually very mild. This car also goes very very fast, very very quickly. 0-60 in 5.7 is no lie. The interior is very comfortable. The heated seats and lumbar support make driving long periods almost enjoyable. Gas mileage was a concern for me with the v8 but I see 28-33 mpg pretty consistently when I cruise control around 70-75. The gas mileage you get from this car is based solely on how you drive

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  WOW! - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By leotus - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Went with the leather. It is holding up really nice. Get the heated seat option if ya live up north like myself!! Very impressive to drive...hugs the road like a child does an icecream cone. Just wished I would have got the on-star package is the only drawback.