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 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By EmWiant - May 9 - 2:00 am

  The dealership I bought my car from was extremley friendly and very helpful in the whole process and the follow up.

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  none - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Raynald R. Labonte - May 9 - 2:00 am

  For apperance it needs the chrome wheels as I have. The heads-up with the other add-on it intails, I wish I had and the car would be perfact, The gas miliage leaves a lot to be desired as I only get about ten city, and highway is twenty-one at best. The car is rated 18- 28. I also have the sunroof and leather w/heated seats.

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  Grand Prix - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By me01 - May 7 - 10:00 am

  Just sold this car for a 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse. It was a good car. Had it for 3 years. It ws reliable, sporty for a midsize sedan. It had good styling and was fun to drive.

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  Tired of American Auto Manufacturers - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By SickOfAmericanAutos - May 7 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle was purchased by me about three years ago. I have consistenly gotten 27 MPG. I drive my Grand Prix hard and it still runs like new. However, the whole Wide-Track gimmick is just plain lies. I have driven alot of cars that can out handle this car that arent even GTs. .78 G on the skid pad is a joke. As far as braking goes, these cars are terrible. Noisy and innefective is what I call them. The engine is torquey and strong. It would be well suited for a 5 speed though. This has been a very reliable car, but I would not reccomend it to anyone. There are any number of import cars that are far superior to this car.

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  Most fun 4 door youll find - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Owlbot - May 3 - 11:26 am

  I upgraded from a 2000 GTP which i loved. This car is quick and handles very well. I bought the Comp G package with mine. The exhaust sounds great, which is one of the reasons i chose this car, and not something like a Maxima. I love a good throaty exhaust. Cant go wrong with it, 4-doors but a lot of fun.

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  The best car I have driven !!!!!! - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By tc3 - May 2 - 10:00 am

  Handles like a dream. Looks sharp. Lots of room. Lots of power. And it was made by Pontiac.

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  I love my car - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By bdm4150 - May 1 - 7:46 am

  This car is amazing so far. I have only had it for a few weeks now but I love it. Its reliable, even at 112,000 miles it still has great pick up. My next car I buy is def. going to be a Grand Prix.

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  pretty good car - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By cpakron - April 27 - 6:43 am

  I bought this car in Feb. of 2006 and havent had any major problems to date. Although, within the first week of ownership, I had to replace all 4 speakers (front-driver side=blown and rear-driver side=dead) and my front-passenger side window motor went out (which I am still yet to fix). The rear struts also will make a crunching sound sometimes. Otherwise, I really love driving the car, it is very sporty and I do get occasional looks.

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  Great for the money - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By wacdmc - April 21 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car for $20K after rebates. So far, 14,000 miles in 6 months and it hasnt skipped a beat. Fuel mileage is good and varies with driving habits. Power is more than sufficient and it cruises well on the highway. I wouldnt hesitate to recommend this car.

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  Love It! - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By TX Owner - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for 3 years and have not tired of it yet! I make excuses to drive this car - it is so much fun. 3 Tickets to go with it though! I am disappointed in the new car design for 2003 - much smaller and doesnt look as sporty. I love the wide-track design of my car and the pep that it has.