Overview & Reviews

The Pontiac brand is part of the General Motors family, and is home to many of the automaker's more performance-oriented vehicles. Currently, the marque offers a broad range of sporty cars and SUVs. However, as part of GM's restructuring plan, the brand is slated to be discontinued by the end of the 2010 model year.

Pontiac originated as the Oakland Car Company of Pontiac, Michigan, in 1907; it was founded by Edward Murphy. Acquired by General Motors in 1909, Oakland introduced the first Pontiac vehicle in 1926. Dubbed the "Chief of the Sixes," the car was powered by a six-cylinder engine and made its debut at that year's New York auto show. It was so successful that the Oakland name was phased out in favor of Pontiac, the name of an 18th-century chief of the Ottawa Indians. Throughout the 1930s and '40s Pontiac made coupes, sedans and wagons in the low-to-mid price ranges. A unique styling cue of Pontiac cars from the mid-'30s to the mid-'50s was known as "Silver Streak," a set of art-deco-inspired chrome "speed lines" that ran up over the length of the hood to the base of the windshield.

The 1950s saw the introduction of the Pontiac Bonneville. The sprawling, stylish cruiser offered equal measures of performance and luxury, and was a breakout hit. But it wasn't until the 1960s that the Pontiac brand truly came into its own. American manufacturers had begun to offer downsized alternatives to the gigantic cruisers that had ruled the highways in previous decades. Pontiac came to market with the compact Tempest. In 1964, Pontiac made its biggest impact yet with the creation of the GTO option for the Tempest. By equipping the car with the powerful 389 cubic-inch V8 from the full-size car line, Pontiac created the first "muscle car." Phenomenally successful, the GTO helped define the burgeoning muscle car category. Pontiac also saw tremendous success during the latter part of this decade with its Firebird and Firebird Trans Am.

The oil crisis of the '70s made fuel efficiency a priority for many car buyers. Following the lead of its GM siblings, Pontiac made compact vehicles like the Ventura and Phoenix a major part of its lineup. The '80s saw the launch of the two-seat Pontiac Fiero. Despite its modest beginnings (it was initially marketed as a "commuter car"), the Fiero eventually blossomed into a credible sports car.

The '90s saw the launch of Pontiacs like the Sunfire and Montana minivan. Pontiac has slowly lost sales due to changing tastes and a lack of differentiation between its models and those of other GM divisions. In hopes of recapturing past glory, the division embarked on a plan to retire aged models and introduce all-new ones with distinctive styling and personality. For a while, the effort seemed to be bearing fruit. New models like the Vibe, Solstice and G8 made Pontiac a brand to consider in many segments. However, GM's financial troubles in 2008 and 2009 have resulted in the company's decision to phase out Pontiac as a brand. It's expected 2010 will be Pontiac's last year for new models.

User Reviews:

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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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  No not a blown engine for $5,000.00 ! - 1998 Pontiac Bonneville
  By CHW - November 12 - 10:00 am

  Not recommended! The looks, ride and comfort are excellent, but it leaves alot to be desired from a reliability standpoint. The engine went out at 56,000 miles. It has already had a starter replaced. I usually get 150,000 from V8 rear wheel drive cars before any repairs.

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  Great Car! - 2001 Pontiac Bonneville
  By ohioseahawk - November 12 - 10:00 am

  Best car ever owned. Have had it for over 1 year and have not had it to the dealer for a single problem. First time I have ever bought a new car and have not had to take it back to the dealer for something.

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  No comparison to 2006 or Mazda Miata - 2007 Pontiac Solstice
  By Rick Dawson - November 9 - 9:53 pm

  I had a 1990 Mazda Miata; I had a 2006 Solstice. Comparing the GXP to either of these cars is a mistake. Do not be misled - this is a car built for fun and high performance. I took the 2006 on a long road trip and could not even put a duffel bag in the trunk; I had to put my clothes, sans suitcase, where I could, shoving them into nooks and crannies everywhere. 5 cubic feet of storage space aint much, especially when divided into small segments here and there. The 2006 reminded me a lot of my Miata, but I got a lot more compliments, questions and stares. The 2007, however, is a muscle car and a roadster. It is FAST! If only they could find a way to put a suitcase in it, it would rate a 10

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  Find of a lifetime - 2000 Pontiac Firebird
  By Zabo - November 9 - 8:30 pm

  Found my bird neglected but with extremely low mileage at a Ford dealership for a good price. While I was more of a Camaro guy myself this car made me a convert right quick. For a 10 year old F-Body this car does show its age in some places, but still looks, feels, and arguably quite relevant in todays day and age. Granted the mileage isnt even a shadow compared to newer cars but you have to ask "Self, why did I buy it?" However, I will say that if you want more than stock; be prepared to turn this car from stocker to rocker as in its stock form this car is already stretching its limits. But since when did anyone buy a muscle car and keep it stock?

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  Great car - 2004 Pontiac GTO
  By ls1goat - November 9 - 5:33 pm

  Bought car used with around 29,000 miles. I have put almost 10,000 miles on it and have had only one problem--gas cap went bad (???). car runs great. Its a blast to drive. The interior is good too. The styling isnt great but it grows on you. Also gets pretty good gas mileage (around 20 city/hwy avg).

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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!

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  Love it - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By leslie - November 9 - 3:46 am

  Bought this car new and have absolutely loved it - no problems except needing a relay switch replaced shortly after purchasing (fell under warranty and towing). Great space-amazingly roomy, good exterior design. Seats fold down for extra storage and plastic backs for easy cleaning. Higher ground clearance is also very nice. Great get up and go and excellent fuel mileage

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  Impressive vehicle! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Polishprinsess13 - November 8 - 1:36 pm

  I have driven many different cars in my life and none have compared to the G6! Its amazing. I did my research before I committed and talked directly with other G6 owners. This car has received rave reviews from everyone and now I am a believer. You must TRY it....you wont regret it!

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  Love my Good Vibe - 2007 Pontiac Vibe
  By Lori - November 7 - 10:06 pm

  Had 3 Altimas in a row, so I was skeptical about a change, but I love my Vibe. Its a great not quite as big as an SUV or as small as a sedan size, and I love how I sit a little higher off the road than my previous mid-sized sedans. I prefer a 5 speed and the location of the stick took some adjustment, but it handles beautifully and is a thrill to drive. Great for carrying stuff without having to go with a truck.