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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Pontiac G8

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Overview

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2009 Pontiac G8 Review

By KBB.com Editors

Attempting to bolster its image – and drive a whole new generation of performance-oriented buyers back into its dealerships – GM's self-proclaimed excitement division last year added the G8 sport sedan to its U.S. lineup. Built in Australia and based on the popular Holden Commodore model, Pontiac's new flagship is its first rear-wheel-drive sedan in several years and is available in three trim levels, a V6-powered standard model, the sporty V8-powered GT and, for 2009, an all new high-performance GXP trim with a proper six-speed manual transmission. The G8's aggressive appearance, impressive array of features, superb handling dynamics and attractive pricing should also help it appeal to those who might want something with the performance and feel of a European sport sedan but at a lower price.

You'll Like This Car If...

Anyone looking for a car that matches the classic charms of a rear-drive full-size four-door with a 21st-century approach to perf

You May Not Like This Car If...

Sticklers for ergonomic detailing may quibble with the positioning of some of the minor control switchgear in the G8's interior. While its standard OnStar system provides for proprietary hands-free calling and Turn-by-Turn navigation, there's no stand-alone navigation system.

What's New for 2009

A high-performance GXP trim joins the lineup and XM Satellite Radio is made standard on all models. OnStar 8.0 now features Bluetooth hands-free connectivity (late availability).

Driving the G8

Driving Impressions Based on GM's newest global rear-drive platform (which will also underpin the upcoming 2010 Chevrolet Camaro), the G8 has a dynamic character that's more in line with a premium European...

sport sedan than a domestic four-door model. Whether you opt for the electrifying acceleration of the GT or prefer the more economical but still impressively quick base version, the G8's fully independent sport suspension is tuned to deliver a great combination of control and comfort that works as well on the freeway as it does on your favorite twisty two-lane highway. The G8's variable-ratio power steering feels positive and linear, and its anti-lock disc brakes slow it with confidence – particularly the larger units used on the GT. Toss in near-ideal weight distribution, driver-selectable stability and traction controls and multi-mode automatic transmissions, and either of these Pontiac sedans has the tools to deliver performance that will impress even the most demanding enthusiast.

Favorite Features

Active Fuel Management System
Complementing its outstanding power and torque characteristics, the GT's 6.0-liter V8 also is fitted with Active Fuel Management, a computer-controlled mileage-optimizing system that allows seamless transitions from eight-cylinder to four-cylinder operation under lighter load conditions.

Driver Shift Control
Both of the G8's automatic transmissions incorporate tri-mode Driver Shift Control circuitry. In addition to "normal" and more-aggressive "sport" programming, each has a manual-style gate that lets the driver select a gear that is then held until the driver shifts, even if that's at the engine's redline.

2009 Pontiac G8 Details

Interior

Purposeful and understated, the G8's spacious cabin reflects its athletic personality in charcoal and grey tones (or optional charcoal and red leather) set off by brushed-aluminum-look accents. Main control layouts are good, the white-on-black gauges and red LCD readouts are legible and the supplemental switchgear is generally arrayed in a user-friendly manner. Highlighting the G8's features are well-bolstered, power-adjustable front bucket seats that provide excellent comfort and support, whether covered in standard cloth or available leather. The expansive rear bench can easily and comfortably accommodate a pair of six-footers or take three average-sized adults on shorter treks, while its cavernous 17.5-cubic-feet trunk handles suitcases and golf bags with equal ease.

Exterior

The 2009 Pontiac G8 makes a powerful but tasteful visual statement, complementing neatly tailored bodywork with prominently flared fenders, a modest decklid spoiler, integrated side sills and functional cooling vents on its hood and front flanks. The face is pure Pontiac, highlighted by projector-beam headlamps, a signature dual-port grille treatment and an equally bold lower air intake. Both G8's wear 18-inch alloy wheels and 245/45 tires, although all-season rubber is replaced by a stickier, summer-spec alternative on the GT. Rear details also differ slightly. The V6 has conventional red taillamps and dual chrome exhaust tips while the appropriately-badged GT gets clear lens covers and a quartet of chrome tailpipes.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Apart from their respective drivetrain differences, both G8 models share a common and comprehensive array of power assists, a steering wheel with audio and cruise control buttons on a tilt and telescoping column, trip computer, anti-lock disc brakes, StabiliTrak stability control and front, front-side and side-curtain airbags. All G8's also come with a one-year subscription to OnStar's Safe and Sound service. The base car has single-zone air conditioning and a seven-speaker Blaupunkt AM/FM/CD/audio package with iPod/MP3 input and XM Satellite Radio, while the GT has dual-zone climate control and a more powerful 11-speaker sound system with a six-disc CD changer.

Optional Equipment

The well-equipped G8 offers relatively few extras. Base-model buyers can opt for the Comfort and Sound Package, which includes dual-zone automatic climate control and the upgraded Blaupunkt audio with six-disc CD changer of the GT model. Either G8 can be ordered with a power sunroof or the Premium Package, which includes heated and six-way power front seats, leather upholstery and trim and a fold-down rear armrest with trunk pass-through. GT buyers can also choose the Sport Package, consisting of metallic pedals, split-spoke machine-faced aluminum wheels, sport steering wheel and 19-inch wheels with 245/40WR19 performance tires.

Under the Hood

Each G8 model gets a unique engine and transmission combination. The entry-level matchup is a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 and five-speed automatic transmission, while the GT comes with a 361-horsepower, 6.0-liter V8 backed by a six-speed automatic. Both transmissions feature multi-mode Driver Shift Control programming, but only the V8 also has GM's Active Fuel Management system to help bolster its operating efficiency in cruise mode. Even the base G8 V6 is an energetic performer, capable of accelerating from zero to 60 miles per hour in a brisk 7.8 seconds, yet EPA-rated at 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway. But the GT is the real star here. It can nail that acceleration benchmark in a scant 5.3 seconds while earning relatively respectable 15 mpg city, 24 mpg highway ratings from the EPA.

3.6-liter V6
256 horsepower @ 6300 rpm
248 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25

6.0-liter V8
361 horsepower @ 5300 rpm
385 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/24

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2009 Pontiac G8 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.4

Out of 10

Based on 225 Ratings for the 2008 - 2009 models.

Review this car

Value

9.6/10

Quality

9.3/10
Reliability

9.4/10

Performance

9.7/10
Comfort

9.4/10

Styling

9.5/10

Great Car!!

By Hambone (NC) on Thursday, July 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 75,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, good milage, get compliments"

Cons: "digital battery gagues kinda tacky"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Love this car..comfortable, roomy, great looking and powerful an all around great car. Have owned Corvettes, Camaros and Mustangs, this by far is the best."

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Looks good. drives even better.

By Driver (CA) on Sunday, May 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 50,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Ride and handling. Looks."

Cons: "stock speakers sound quality. easy fix."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Don't see a lot on the road. Wish pontiac could of stayed around just to make this one car. I would buy a new one every 4 to 5 years. It's a shame I won't get the chance. Car has a stand out look and drives great. For a big sedan it corners like a little car. Turn the traction off and have some fun. Stays balanced and easy to handle even in a drift."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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BEST ALL AROUND VEHICLE I'VE EVER HAD!

By Bobby (MN) on Thursday, April 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,498

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great Value, Fun, Great looking, Practical, Fast."

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I love this car! It's perfect for someone who wants a car that can do everything. It looks classy and sporty. It's fast and handles well (even in snow). It's comfortable and has a lot of leg room and big trunk! I can't find anything I don't like!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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best car ever

By vincent (TX) on Friday, April 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 28,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "fun to drive"

Cons: "none"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"love my g8 gt, bought the car for exterior design & engine ..it's like driving a corvette w/ 4 doors."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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the best dollar value ,In a performance sedan.

By little al (CA) on Sunday, March 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 22,037

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Does every thing extremely well"

Cons: "No power seat recliners, Fr pass seat rear travel."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"purchased new in sept 2008.Never had any love for the pontiac brand, & I was concerned about a number of things, no spare tire, no power seat recliners,passenger side leg room less than the drivers.four & a half yrs later it is probably the best all around car I have owned.Maybe it helps to have lower expectations,but the comfort,performace,& reliability have exceeded my wishes.Even the fuel economy is fairly reasonable for a V8.The resale value is another attribute.Feels great to say something good about a car. Go pontiac"

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Great Car!

By Sam (OH) on Thursday, March 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 73,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Just about everything."

Cons: "Cop Catcher, Windshield Wiper, Paint Chip,"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is the 3rd Pontiac I've owned. I come from a GM family and my first 2 were misery and just a black hole for money (They were given to me so I really shouldn't complain much). Both my sister and mom got a G8 right before I purchased my own. I did it with a lot of hesitation but just loved this car more than any other. I can say I don't regret it. I think any rear wheel drive vehicle will be bad in snow and ice but I've put snow tires on it and I add weight to the back in the winter. It works pretty well. The driver side windshield wiper thing is a bit of a pain and my air pressure gauge doesn't work well. These are small things though that don't effect the awesomeness of this car. I did rate the design at an 9 simply for the interior's design. I'm not a fan of the window controls being in the center. The cup holders on the door are a bit of a joke. I have noticed the paint chips easily. However, this car an eye catcher and 3 years later I still look at it and think it's a sharp car. It purrs so well when I need to accelerate quickly. The ride is so smooth. I'm curious to see how well it maintains. My friend who is a car guy dropped his jaw when I told him what I owned and begged me to drive it."

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See all 225 reviews