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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  Great Purchase - 2008 Pontiac G8
  By Brian Sharrett - September 23 - 10:36 am

  I bought this car to replace my 04 Mustang Cobra. I really needed more room. This auto provides that and more! The performance is very good overall for the size and weight of the car. A lot of people complain about "Atari type gauges" but you do get used to them. After owning and driving this car for three months, I realize, I have made a great purchase and I am not looking back!

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  We just call it the - 2004 Pontiac Aztek
  By Mokole - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I have a white GT 2001 and it was the best deal ever. Some people may not like the looks but the advantage to its unique design is that it is real easy to find it in the parking lot. ;) Superior handling, gas mileage and safety compared to other SUVs. Cooler and extra cigarette outlets make trips easier (for accessories like laptops). Rear flip, fold and removing rear sets opens up allot of room. Mine also came with the cargo tray which is useful for travel luggage and groceries. This car is fun to drive because it rides nice and silent. Everyone I know who has been in my car has learned to appreciate it if not really like it.

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  Setting the pace - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Jeffery A. Lowery - September 22 - 2:00 am

  The engine preformance is great for a V6, it will put you back in your seat. Cup holders are needed in the rear seating area and an arm rest, ashtry would also be nice. I cant say enough about the sedan, Im 41 years old and would never think about owning anything other than a coupe but this machine did win me over!

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  Excellence - 2002 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Stacy - September 21 - 10:00 am

  I didnt buy one, but I drove my aunts that she was using from a rent a car place. The driving is so smooth, and its just an overall awesome experience.

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  New Owner - 2001 Pontiac Montana
  By bdchild - September 20 - 2:00 am

  When driving the van I feel its a little tight for me. (the husband) My wife fits in great.This is not the extended version. Aside from that its a great ride. Fun to drive. Great with the kids.

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  This bonneville is pleasure to drive - 1999 Pontiac Bonneville
  By J.ALLEN - September 18 - 5:10 am

  I purchased this car in 2000 with 22,000 miles for 15k. It has been a terrific car. Very roomy and good acceleration. I have had no major issues except the abs light has come on and off since about 35000 miles. I took it to the dealer few times they would reset it and about 2 months later, back on again. I have the brakes regulary checked and no problems . Overall this car has been one the best i have ever had. A great work and family car. I plan on keeping this one for a long time. American cars have had a bad reputation as not being reliable. I belive cars like this bonneville are closing the gap at a price that the average person could afford

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  Vroom vroom - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Stacey - September 17 - 8:10 pm

  I just bought an 06 Grand Prix GXP and this car is not only gorgeous to look at, but its a blast to drive. Ive had quick vehicles in the past, but the acceleration and power or this car is amazing. I bought a red one with 35,000 miles so its just broken in. I love to small details that make it unique, the red brakes, the mini fog lights, the Monsoon sound system, and the remote start. What a great car!

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  best car ever!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Pontiac GTO
  By Viper1234 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  The Pontiac GTO is the best car in the world!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Awsome new design - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Everett - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had the car for one month, but it is the best car for long term driving that I bought to date. I travel over 750 miles weekly and have not been uncomfortable yet. Should have bumped up the stereo option, but Ill just get an aftermarket one itstalled for less. Love the power to pass on the highway.

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  NICE CAR COOL COLOUR - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By the boss - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Love the gp first new GM product for me the fusion orange is great, and one of the reasons I leased this car. Good ride, gas mileage, room, no complaints in over 7000 miles over 11,000 km.