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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  Great Sports-Family Car - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Jen - August 29 - 11:00 am

  My first car was a Pontiac, so I am partial to the brand. I LOVE this car! It is stylish, sporty and fun to drive. I get great gas mileage and have a lot of room in the front, either riding or driving. The back is roomy, unless you put the front seats back. It cramps little legs. We have two booster seats in the back and if you want to fit a third person, you have to remove one of the seats to be comfortable.

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  Satisfaction - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Bowhawk - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Quick response and very smooth ride.

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  My GXP - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Lostrebel - August 26 - 1:46 pm

  Pure performance from a 4 door sedan. Not for the weak of heart or forearm. Once we mastered the torque steer the car is a complete joy to drive. Superb handling and braking under all conditions.

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  The muscle car lives....but its GM - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By GhostOfDeLorean - August 25 - 3:50 pm

  Bought the car because of the engine and cockpit interior. Yes, its dated, but the 3800 will run forever. I have the GTP Comp/G and its a head turner! Fast off the line. Have to watch over torquing into curves. TapShift is ok, but could live without. Has every option. Too bad it does not come with heated mirrors. The bad: N85 five-spoke chrome alloy wheels are crap. Nice looking but the chrome is bubbling off after three years and breaking the seal. GM will only supply reconditioned rims. Will never buy a new GM product again.

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  worst mistake ever! - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By esh83 - August 19 - 1:51 am

  Ive had problems with this car from the start. @15,000 miles steering shaft replaced 4 times and whole steering assembly replaced @15,000 airbag sensor in passenger seat replaced twice @29,000 miles engine dropped for rear main seal leak @60,000 miles right front tire pressure monitoring system stopped working -Traction control light and ABS kick on whenever i make a tight turn, dealer couldnt find a problem- had this problem since 35,000 miles -Transmission light on now at 63,000 miles for no reason. -Multiple lights out in dash..heated seat light out, heat control arrows out, shifter light out. it seems like i always have some kind of engine or service light on :(

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  06GrandPrixGT - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Irish - August 17 - 10:36 pm

  I drove a 97 GTP for 8 years and loved it so I was reluctant about the new style but when the 06 came out with more power and options in a GT I traded up. This car can fly. Ive driven the Magnum RT and the Grand Prix is faster off the line. Smooth ride, corners well. 90 degree doors in the rear are nice for kids getting in and out. I would recommend buying one without a sunroof as it adds much needed headroom. Leg room in the rear is a little tight but seats are more comfortable than the 04/05 versions.

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  Good-Bad and the Buggy - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Jcteacher - August 17 - 10:00 am

  Okay car, HOWEVER, theres Too many window problems! Pontiac customer service problems. I recommend staying away from GM cars based on the window electric problems. ALL three automatic window motors-BROKE, fourth is going downhill! BLOWER MOTOR SWITCH GOING out and only 2 speeds left! Pontiac does not take responsibility for its defects. Dont drive long distances, seats are hard and it makes a sore butt. . L0L. . I will NEVER buy a Pontiac again. Shame on this company! I AM BUYING A HONDA!

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  Fun car - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By dangerxx - August 13 - 2:40 pm

  i loved this car. the only problem we had was the transmission went at about 130K. but this is a great car. its big enough for a family of 4. its pretty quick. and its fun to drive. ours got totaled last year cause some idiot hit it, and i still miss it.

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  Best all around car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Bobby - August 13 - 2:16 am

  Recently purchased a GT2 and I would not trade it for the world. This car is quick and quiet. It will get you to where you need to go and looks good while doing it. It also will save you a load of cash in fuel. I highly recommend this car to any consumer.

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  Grand Prix GTP - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Sheila - August 10 - 10:33 pm

  Car is fun to drive; many of the options I didnt really think I needed, but now love them. Particularly the supercharged engine. However, am disappointed in the size (too small) and ride - not the soft, cushy ride I am used to in other GM products. Overall, am happy with car.