"Bring Back the Screaming Chicken!"

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As mentioned last week, Pontiac has been on my mind lately, as I have recently driven the new Vibe mini-SUV/wagon and the all-new G8 sports sedan. While many of you may already be aware of the Vibe, the G8 is a completely new effort from GM's performance division, built to replace the sad and unmissed Bonneville and Grand Prix at the top of the Pontiac range.

GM has been on a bit of a roll as of late, as evidenced by its improved standing within IntelliChoice's 2008 value analysis, as well as vastly improved acceptance of its new pricing and styling attitude by both the motor media and potential buyers. It has been said by just about every automobile executive at one time or another that there is no problem in this business that a good product cannot solve. I believe that GM and Pontiac in particular have brighter days on the horizon based on this undeniable truth.

2008 Pontiac G8 Sedan

So...let's talk about the product. The Vibe comes from the same production line as the Toyota Matrix. But unless buying that valuable Toyota badge is high on your list, go for the Vibe. Steering feel is better weighted and more direct than in the Matrix, and while style is a subjective thing, the Vibe carries a cleaner "mini-crossover" design that should wear better over time than the more aggressive and potentially trendy Matrix (Scion?) look.

And the G8? Pontiac lists the Nissan Maxima, Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger as primary competitors, but I would like to expand that roster to include the venerable V6-powered Honda Accord, Volkswagen Passat and Nissan Altima, as well as the Acura TL, Lexus IS and Infiniti G35. In order to get a fair level of competitive features and equipment, the German-lux makers charge too much for their 3-Series/C-Class/A4 trio to be noted. Even without the European team, this is a very broad range of vehicles, with prices from $23k to well past $45k. This all-new Pontiac sits in the middle with a fully-loaded price of $32k. But here is the big reason Pontiac now deserves a second look: $32k will buy you a rear-wheel drive and well-equipped sedan big enough for five adults...powered by a 6.0 liter V8 engine tuned to deliver 361 horsepower and run from zero to 60 mph in a bit over five seconds! And, starting in the $25k range, is a V6 model with 256 horsepower and 0-60 times in the seven-second range. The look and design is a clean and clear sports sedan somewhat reminiscent of the attractive Acura TL, but beyond the crazy power of the V8 version, the actual driving experience is just a notch or two below. Rear wheel drive, 18-inch wheels, and the subtle hood scoops and rear spoiler help establish its sporting credentials, but the six-speed auto box hesitates a bit too long between shifts and the brakes seem to grip harder the second time you hit them, which can be a bit unsettling when you need them NOW.

But both of these vehicles have that certain undeniable spirit that should help put Pontiac back on drivers' consideration lists. I believe this comes from a company that has been on the ropes but is now fighting back before the final bell.

Posted on 2008-03-03 | Permalink | |

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