Pontiac G8

Where was this car when they were screwing up the new GTO?

Once again, GM's Pontiac division went to Australian automaker Holden for their next car platform. This time, they got it right. The G8 is based on the Holden Commodore, which rides on GM's Zeta platform. It is a rear wheel drive, full size sedan: Pontiac's first since the 1986 Bonneville and Parisienne.

The sedan will replace the outgoing Grand Prix, with a final production of 2008. One year of overlap will help transition the new model into the Pontiac product line.

Two trim levels will be offered: Base and GT. The base model will receive GMs 3.6L VVT V6, which produces 261hp, mated to a 5 speed automatic transmission.

The GT is the personification of Pontiac's racing image. The L76 6.0L V8 produces 362hp and 385 lb/ft of torque. The only transmission offering is a 6-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control and Sport Mode. A 6-speed manual is a possibility, but not in the 2008 models. The GT will go from 0-60 in just over 5 seconds. The rear axle has 2.92 gears and limited slip.

Pontiac has neither confirmed nor denied a GXP version of the G8. Talks of using the Corvette's LS2 V8, which produces 414hp, are being circulated. Another option is the Corvette Z06's LS7 V8, which produces 500hp. Either way, it'll be a pretty hot sedan, putting it in the same arena as the BMW M5 or Audi S6.

Look for the G8 arriving soon in Pontiac dealers. MSRP for the Base model is around $27,500, and for the GT, around $29,995

Things are looking up at GM. The G8 is a step in a good direction. This along with the new Malibu shows that they're starting to realize how much the market has changed.

Let's hope that GM keeps pumping out cars like this.