HispanicBusiness

The Pontiac G8 is a rear-drive, V-8 powered full-size sedan from General Motors. No, not that GM, the one in Australia. Welcome isn't the word.

The G8 is a blessed return to the sort of All-American sedan that made GM's fortunes. It comes from GM's Down Under Holden.

The only question is what took GM so long to start to remedy the front-drive error of its ways in big cars? And why is it done in Australia and not Detroit?

Oh, and the G8 GT with a 6L V-8 of 361 magnificent horsepower and commodious seating for five is priced not at $40,000 or $50,000 but a surprising $32,000 and change. A V-6 version is less and a GXP's 6.2L V-8 of 400 horsepower is more.

Has GM stumbled upon a business plan here?

Who cares? The Pontiac G8 is here however late and however exotic so let us count its enjoyable ways.

First, the terminally tall driver will have to move the seat forward, not back. There's a vast amount of front seat legroom. That may be a reflection upon the elongated Bob Lutz, vice chairman of GM's global product development.

The seats are full-size and well bolstered. The driving position is near perfect. So is acceleration with a 5.3 second mark to 60 mph.

Fuel economy of 15 city 24 highway is helped by a fuel management system that shuts off four of the eight cylinders at highway speeds. A six speed automatic transmission aids as well.

The G8 tracks enthusiastically though hard curves while providing a firm but even ride thanks in part to four-wheel independent suspension.

It may mark a return to the old Pontiac Driving Excitement. Think of it: A powerful V-8 driving rear wheels. What a great idea.


Pontiac G8 GT
Engine: 6.0L V-8
Dimensions: 114.8" wheelbase; 196.1" length.
Base price: $32,555.
Fuel economy: 15/24 mpg.