2009 Pontiac G8 Review

Overview

The 2009 Pontiac G8 is a full-size rear-wheel drive four-door, five-passenger, family or sports sedan, available in thee trims Base, GT, and GXP. For 2009, XM Satellite Radio is standard and a new model GXP joins the G8 line-up.

Power and performance

A 3.6-liter V6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control that pumps out 256 hp powers the 2009 Pontiac G8 Base trim. The GT trim is powered by a 6.0-liter V8 engine teamed to a six-speed automatic transmission and rated at 361 hp. A 6.2-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission that generates a massive 402 hp finds place under the hood of the high-performance GXP.

Body and styling

A performance-oriented large sedan, the 2009 Pontiac G8's Base trim comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels; a seven-speaker CD sound system; XM Satellite Radio; a rear spoiler; four-way power front seats; and a tilt/telescopic steering wheel. The key highlights of the 2009 Pontiac G8 are the available optional features such as the Blaupunkt premium 11-speaker audio system that gives 230-watt with amplifier, and sub-woofers; XM Radio, standard with a 3-month trial; spoiler, rear low-profile; 5-spoke machine-faced aluminum 19-inch wheels (GT only); air conditioning, dual-zone automatic climate control with individual climate settings for driver and front passenger; remote vehicle starter system with lock control included in key fob; and heated driver and front passenger seats (leather seats only). An optional Comfort and Sound Package with dual-zone automatic air conditioning; AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and MP3 playback; 6.5-inch color LCD; and Blaupunkt premium 11-speaker system is also available.

Safety Features

OnStar, a comprehensive in-vehicle security system with navigation, communications, and diagnostics equipment; side airbags; traction control; daytime running lights; auto-on headlights; child safety locks; brake assist electronic stability control; and rear head, side head, and rear body air bags are some of the standard safety equipment on the 2009 G8.