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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  Good Car - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Anthony - April 14 - 9:20 am

  Since we bought the car it has never been back for any type of warranty work or any other repairs. Workmanship is excellent. We just change the oil, refuel the car and drive it. Handling is good and it drives well. We like the style, both interior and exterior, very functional. Good car.

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  Great Fun! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Trance - April 10 - 4:46 pm

  Love the car for its performance. Even though the car is large...the interior feels a bit cramped. The back seats are almost useless to adults. However...Im single and bought it for the performance...so Im happy.

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  40th Anniversary - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Buster - April 7 - 6:36 pm

  We purchased a 40th anniversary model, which was hard to find, but we were lucky enough to find one at a local dealership. So far we love the car. We compared it to many other models, even the Jag X-type. But dollar for dollar, it seemed like the best value. So far we dont regret that decision. The car has plenty of power (we didnt go with the GTP becuase of the 93 octane gas requirement). This car handles well, accelerates very well and has plenty of interior room. Once we fot used to it, we find the heads up display very useful. Keeps reminding you of your speed. We wouls strongly recommend this car.

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  Best car! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Ultra - April 5 - 12:53 pm

  I have owned this car for 3 years and love it! This will actually be the 1st car I am going to pay off and keep! My car has 93,000 miles and nothing is wrong with it!It has been the most reliable car I ever owned! When I pay it off, I will buy another Grand Prix, but it will be a GXP!

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  Great Car - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By nice car - April 3 - 2:26 pm

  I got this car for free since it was no longer accommodating for my Dad (the very low seating position and getting in and out is difficult when your 72 years old and have hip/knee problems). Replaced all the brakes and rotors (all 4 were warped...no idea why). Put in about $200 for parts and did the work myself. Only problems now are non-functioning electric window on rear passenger side and an oil leak (one from sending unit and a rear main seal). I dont plan to fix these since I dont ride in the back seat (sorry passenger) and the oil leak will probably be expensive....I will fix it if it is just the oil sending unit....wont do it if it is the rear main seal. Got the car 9 months ago

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  i love my grand prix se - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By mz mylkshake - April 2 - 2:00 am

  i bought my grand prix not too long ago and i have not been dissappointed it had 68000 miles on it when i bought it and a few small knicks and scratches but i love it nonethe less, it is so fun to drive and although i could not get the gt i wanted the se has alot of kick i love the room i have i love the car all im missing is a sunroof which i may add myself

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  Best car since 1996 impala ss - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By FUTURE CLASSIC CAR - March 31 - 11:03 am

  love this car. prior owner of 1996 impala ss & this car is better build & really performs. it is very pretty & classy. get compliments all the time. if pontiac would advertise this car more, it would help their bottom line.

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  Great value for the Price - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Devnek - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Has all the features that I wanted in a larger size car. Has great pick-up and leg room (Im taller and drivers side leg room in many cars leave a lot to be desired).

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  Great buy - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Speedy - March 30 - 10:46 pm

  This was one of my best purchases. I have had this vehicle for close to 10 years and its still immaculate. On the highway keeping my foot out of the injectors I have gotten as much as 36mpg around town I average 23 to 24mpg. I really enjoy the car the ride is great for what it is, noise level is low and I absolutely love the HUD. When power is needed its here in a heartbeat. I have had no major mechanical issues. Most issues presented themselves during warranty period and were corrected. Only the interior carpeting was cheap crap and had to be replaced about a uear ago. This was a little expesive but worth every penny. This car is in as good a shape as it was coming of the showroom floor.

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  Im hooked. But not Sold!! - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Mak - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I rent the GrandPrix just about every other weekend. I love this car. It is fun to drive and has fabulous acceleration. I would love to buy one. However, tend to keep a car for more than 5 years and Ponitacs reliability is unproven. (read professional reviews as well as these) I do not trust the cars alternator, starter, or power train (transmission). I would definately recommend renting one and possibily leasing one for 2 years or less. If you buy get rid of this car at the 2 to 3 year mark, let somebody else be the case study for Ponitac. As soon as a see many 8 to 10 year old Grand Prixs driving around I might buy one.