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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  Sweet! - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Pontiac RULZ - November 22 - 6:16 pm

  This car is the car of my dreams! It rides smoothly which makes me feel like Im floating. I love the space and all the things that come along with it!!!

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  Lucky number 3 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Dora Mae - November 20 - 9:16 am

  This is my 3rd grand prix I had a 95 which I was not impressed with but decided to give it another shot with an 03 which I loved and then decided to trade in on an 04 for the more adult design. I would recommend this car to anyone. I have taken it in many road trips I bought it at 74k miles and it now has 107k less than 2 years later. No problems! My friends love it, my parents love it, and I still look forward to driving it everyday. My favorite car that I have owned.

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  Happy in all areas but one.... - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Marianne - November 20 - 8:36 am

  This is a great car for the money, with all the features I wanted (and then some). The only complaint I have is that I find the gas mileage to be very poor. I do mostly city driving, and I am averaging 16-17 mpg. I previously had a Toyota, which did so much better in that area, but this is certainly a much sportier car. Not really sure why such bad gas mileage.

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  grandprixgtp - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By brent123 - November 19 - 2:00 am

  great car but needs some redesign

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  Great Car - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By somork - November 17 - 10:00 am

  Excellent acceleration and power. Tight handling. Very coforatable. A blast to drive!!

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  Gotta love it - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By K Curry - November 16 - 2:53 am

  Car is everything I would want in a vehicle. As far as engine being too loud I guess people just dont like muscle cars anymore in this country.

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  Good car for starters - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Jason Whitney - November 15 - 3:57 am

  This car has some get up and go, but not a speed demon. Top end is high. 2 years of ownership, and only flaws at 130k miles is have to replace serpentine belt and possibly check wheel bearings. Otherwise this car has been solid, and is sound in all driving conditions for weather. Works well in snow, rain, and great a/c if charged. I may keep this car instead of trading it in.

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  Grand Prix lover - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By gregw - November 13 - 5:16 pm

  Our fourth Grand Prix. Comfortable ride with decent acceleration. Very stylish. Reliable transportation. stable with ABS and traction control.

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  Some problems with Comp G - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By psu_rules - November 13 - 2:00 am

  I was initally very pleased with my car but since purchase it has developed a problem with steering with grinding and clicking and GM does know the problem exists but does not know how to fix it. Power is excellent but could use more head room at 61. Love the way it looks but frustrated with my problem.

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  Well it has the bells and whistles! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Patman - November 9 - 8:40 am

  My wife and I were out to purchase a new (used) car and we had found one we liked but my wife would not let me purchase it. She said it didnt have enough bells and whistles to make me happy. So we continued to look and I am glad we did, this car is not only functional for my family (4 of us) it is a kick to drive! It has power that wont quit, I am the envy of all my students at school!