Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Pontiac G8 GXP spotted wearing HSV duds in Cali]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/pontiac-g8-gxp-spotted-wearing-hsv-duds-in-cali/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/pontiac-g8-gxp-spotted-wearing-hsv-duds-in-cali/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/pontiac-g8-gxp-spotted-wearing-hsv-duds-in-cali/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Pontiac G8 GXP wears an HSV costume --Click above for an image gallery

Thanks to a tipster who shall remain anonymous, we have a set of photos showing what kind of fun you can have if you're the lucky owner of a Pontiac G8 GXP. This California car has been fitted the Aussie-market HSV front fascia, rear spoiler, hood, and wheels, but the vanity plate lets other motorists in on the Arrowhead-shaped secret. Any way you cut it, it looks good -- better even than the way the G8 GXP looks rolling out of your soon-to-be-defunct local Poncho store. So, hit the gallery to see the rest of it, and thanks to our tipster for the pics.


Gallery: Pontiac G8 GXP sporting HSV bodywork

Pontiac G8 GXP spotted wearing HSV duds in Cali originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>g8gxphsvhsv conversionHsvConversionpontiac g8 gxpPontiacG8GxpWed, 05 Aug 2009 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: The Sky has a limit after all, as GM Kappa production ends]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/report-the-sky-has-a-limit-after-all-as-gm-kappa-production-en/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/report-the-sky-has-a-limit-after-all-as-gm-kappa-production-en/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/report-the-sky-has-a-limit-after-all-as-gm-kappa-production-en/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Pontiac Solstice GXP - Click above for high-res image gallery

Old saying: The flame that burns twice as bright burns only half as long. Having driven our share of Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky roadsters, we can't honestly declare them to be brightly burning flames. Oh, they have their good points, but the market's worst folding top mechanism and rampant parts-sharing to keep costs in check have taken their toll on the promising droptops. What we can say, however, is that every Kappa platform vehicle is fabulous looking. Even the badge job Opel GT and Daewoo G2X.

Which is why, however small, there's a tiny tear in our eye because of the news that General Motors is shuttering its Boxwood Road plant in Delaware. It makes sense: the bankrupt automaker has euthanized Pontiac and is looking to sell Saturn. Furthermore, sales of the cramped, near-trunkless (or very odd) roadsters didn't exactly keep GM out of the red. Speaking of color, the boys over at Saturn Fans report that the last Kappa to roll off the line was a silver Solstice roadster. We just hope that "Good GM" doesn't look at the end of the Kappa platform as proof that small, sporty, rear-wheel drive convertibles are a dead end. Regardless, reach behind the seat and grab a cold one to pour out for a dead, albeit awkward, homie.


Gallery: Review: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP


[Source: Saturn Fans]

REPORT: The Sky has a limit after all, as GM Kappa production ends originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Boxwood RoadBoxwood Road plantBoxwoodRoadBoxwoodRoadPlantGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGXPKappaOpelOpel GTOpelGtPontiacPontiac SolsticePontiac Solstice CoupePontiac Solstice GXPPontiac Solstice GXP CoupePontiacSolsticePontiacSolsticeCoupePontiacSolsticeGxpPontiacSolsticeGxpCoupeSaturnSaturn Sky RedlineSaturnSkyRedlineSkySky RedlineSkyRedlineSolsticeSolstice GXPSolsticeGxpWed, 29 Jul 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe: Great moments in cupholder history]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/2009-pontiac-solstice-gxp-coupe-great-moments-in-cupholder-hist/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/2009-pontiac-solstice-gxp-coupe-great-moments-in-cupholder-hist/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/2009-pontiac-solstice-gxp-coupe-great-moments-in-cupholder-hist/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe's weird cupholders - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've ever driven a Pontiac Solstice, you know that it's a very pretty but extremely flawed car. In the interest of getting the concept car's look exactly right in production form, GM had to make a host of compromises, which manifest themselves in a number of ways.

You all know about the roadster's ridiculously recalcitrant top mechanism and dearth of usable space for both humans and cargo. What you may not be aware of is that inside the cockpit, there are three cupholders. One is actually semi-usable - it pops out of the transmission tunnel on the passenger side but is a bit flimsy and threatens to dump on your passenger's lap. In the convertible, the other two are mounted in a pop-out tray below the storage bin between the front seats. Perhaps they were designed by someone with a cruel sense of humor. Or maybe by a fan of comic books, because unless one possesses the flexibility of Reed Richards, it's essentially impossible to reach for a drink nestled in one of them without incurring some sort of sports injury.

After our man Sam Abuelsamid reviewed the 2009 Solstice GXP Coupe, I got to spend a week with one myself. (My car had a manual gearbox - the only difference between the two). One of the first things I noticed about the interior is that the tray with the useless cupholders is absent from the space between the seats. I opened the owner's manual and, sure enough, the only cupholder mentioned is the one in the tranny tunnel. But while loading the "trunk" (as it were), I discovered an undocumented feature. Well, two of them, actually.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid, Alex Núñez/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading 2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe: Great moments in cupholder history

2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe: Great moments in cupholder history originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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After taking a ride in the Pontiac G8 GXP and reading Jonathan's review, our adoration of the Aussie-bred sports sedan continues unabated. Nearly everyone we've talked to about the GXP says the same thing: "budget E39 M5." While the clichéd poor-man's Bimmer trope always causes our eyes to roll back into their sockets, this may be one of the few exceptions. According to Jalop's new reporter, Der Auto Inshiderfahvenberger, the GXP ran around the 'Ring in 8:30 -- a mere two seconds off the E39 M5's time.

The run was supposedly set by one of the GXP's development engineers - not a professional driver - but as always, we're wary of any development mule setting "unofficial" lap times, particularly when a roll cage is fitted, aiding in chassis rigidity. Regardless, it's hard to argue with a four-door sedan coming in under $40-large and delivering this level of performance.

Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP


Gallery: 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP - Live Reveal


[Source: Jalopnik]

Pontiac G8 GXP rumored to lap Nurburgring in 8:30 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 pontiac g8 gxp2009PontiacG8Gxpg8gxpnurburgringpontiacTue, 25 Nov 2008 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Pontiac G8 GXP officially rated at 415 hp]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/08/pontiac-g8-gxp-officially-rated-at-415-hp/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/08/pontiac-g8-gxp-officially-rated-at-415-hp/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/08/pontiac-g8-gxp-officially-rated-at-415-hp/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click either image for a high-res gallery

The V8-powered Pontiac G8 GT has garnered a fair amount of respect around Autoblog HQ, with almost everyone who's spent time behind the wheel singing the praises of the Aussie-imported four-door muscle car. We're all suckers for rubber-melting torque and rear-wheel motivation, and even El Capitan Neff has thought about retiring his Alero for a shot at G8 ownership. For the rest of us, a six-speed manual would seal the deal.

Next year Pontiac will finally offer a proper cog swapper on its G8 GXP, and not only do drivers get to row their own gears, but they're getting an extra 13 horses and 15 lb.-ft. of torque to boot. The SAE has finally performed its official testing on the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 and output is up to 415 horsepower and an equal amount of twist.

With 19-inch HSV wheels framing 14-inch (front) and 12.76-inch (rear) discs and Brembo calipers, a standard LSD and a stiffened suspension, the additional power is just another reason to be smitten by the Pontiac G8 GXP. That, and the Tremac TR060 manual. We'll take ours in slate grey for maximum intimidation. Thanks for the tip, Torrent!

Gallery: 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP - Live Reveal


[Source: GMI]

Pontiac G8 GXP officially rated at 415 hp originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>g8gxppontiacpontiac g8 gxpPontiacG8GxpMon, 08 Sep 2008 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[New York 2008: Pontiac unveils G8 GXP, featuring 50 Cent [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-pontiac-unveils-g8-gxp-featuring-50-cent/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-pontiac-unveils-g8-gxp-featuring-50-cent/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-pontiac-unveils-g8-gxp-featuring-50-cent/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view more high-res live shots of the Pontiac G8 GXP

It's a rare occurrence when honest applause breaks out in a press conference over a new model, let alone a transmission. But that's exactly what happened when Maximum Bob talked up the Pontiac G8 GXP, and specifically its optional six-speed manual transmission. Mated to that highly coveted cog swapper is the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 pulled from the Corvette, making 402 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. If you opt for the 6L80 auto 'box, you can check your manhood and an extra two lb.-ft. of torque at the door.

In addition to the upgraded engine and manual tranny, the GXP benefits from the 19-inchers originally shown on the G8 concept, Brembo brakes (sized 14-inches up front and 12.76 inches out back) and some revised suspension bits. Zero-to-60 times are down to 4.7 seconds and the G8 GXP (along with the Solstice coupe and 'ute) are all due to hit dealers later this year.

Pontiac's full press release is posted after the jump, and our own live high-res shots can be seen in the gallery below (we're going to be adding more as soon as the pandemonium surrounding the vehicle dies down.

Gallery: 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP - Live Reveal


Gallery: 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP

Continue reading New York 2008: Pontiac unveils G8 GXP, featuring 50 Cent [w/VIDEO]

New York 2008: Pontiac unveils G8 GXP, featuring 50 Cent [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingg8gxpnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowpontiacpontiac g8 gxpPontiacG8GxpWed, 19 Mar 2008 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Feds investigating Solstice GXP, Sky Redline brakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/10/feds-investigating-solstice-gxp-sky-redline-brakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/10/feds-investigating-solstice-gxp-sky-redline-brakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/10/feds-investigating-solstice-gxp-sky-redline-brakes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received around 40 complaints from owners of the Pontiac Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Redline regarding the vehicle's braking performance. According to the owners, too much pedal effort is required to slow the vehicle down when the engine is cold. This may correlate with a TSB issued by General Motors back in December that advised dealers to recalibrate the braking control computer on both models. The system uses the stability control module's pump to increase hydraulic pressure when engine vacuum is low.

The investigation is in its preliminary stages, so no recall is in effect yet. However, NHTSA has one case of a crash involving one of the two models that could be attributed to the problem.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Feds investigating Solstice GXP, Sky Redline brakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gxppontiacpontiac solstice gxppontiac solstice gxp braking problempontiac solstice gxp cold brakingPontiacSolsticeGxpPontiacSolsticeGxpBrakingProblemPontiacSolsticeGxpColdBrakingredlinesaturnsaturn sky redlinesaturn sky redline braking problemsaturn sky redline cold brakingSaturnSkyRedlineSaturnSkyRedlineBrakingProblemSaturnSkyRedlineColdBrakingskysolsticeMon, 10 Mar 2008 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the deal? Sky sales rallying, Solstice waning]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/whats-the-deal-sky-sales-rallying-solstice-waning/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/whats-the-deal-sky-sales-rallying-solstice-waning/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/whats-the-deal-sky-sales-rallying-solstice-waning/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When the Pontiac Solstice hit the market last year, there was enough electricity surrounding the new model in GM's "Excitement" division to power a small mid-western town. That buzz has apparently dropped off in quick order. Whereas before, dealers were tacking on huge markups, there are now reports of $1,000 being thrown on the hood of Pontiac's beautiful, bulbous roadster.

An article in the New York Times outlines a number of reasons for the recent sales slump, which include sales of the Saturn Sky rallying, Pontiac's brand perception waning and fashion victims, whose tastes change quicker than their Platinum card balance, losing interest in a vehicle that is becoming more commonplace.

Historically, highly stylized sports cars and convertibles have a short shelf life and that, coupled with the introduction of the GXP variant of the Solstice, may be the biggest culprits in the recent sales decline.

[Source: New York Times via Winding Road]

What's the deal? Sky sales rallying, Solstice waning originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gxppontiacredlinesaturnskysolsticeFri, 24 Aug 2007 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Zak attack: New head of GM's European exterior design team]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/zak-attack-new-head-of-gms-european-exterior-design-team/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/zak-attack-new-head-of-gms-european-exterior-design-team/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/zak-attack-new-head-of-gms-european-exterior-design-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Saturn PreVue

American designer Phillip A. Zak has just been appointed to head the design team for General Motors Europe, where he'll be taking the reigns of the Opel, Vauxhall and Saab brands. The man behind the Chevy Cobalt, Pontiac G6 and the "Excitement" division's GXP line, will also have a hand in designing "certain Saturn products for North America."

In addition to the aforementioned production models, Zak has also stuffed his portfolio with several concept cars including the Pontiac REV and the Saturn Prevue, two designs that have had a direct influence on the styling direction of both brands.

We're interested to see what will come out of the GM's European studio with Zak at the helm, especially considering the recent propagation of Euro designs in the Saturn lineup.

[Source: InsideLine]

Zak attack: New head of GM's European exterior design team originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevy cobaltChevyCobaltgeneral motors europeGeneralMotorsEuropegmgxgxpopelphillip a. zakPhillipA.ZakpontiacsaabvauxhallThu, 02 Aug 2007 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikes Peak: Millen dominates RWD Time Attack class]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/22/pikes-peak-millen-dominates-rwd-time-attack-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/22/pikes-peak-millen-dominates-rwd-time-attack-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/22/pikes-peak-millen-dominates-rwd-time-attack-class/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As expected, Rhys Millen and his Pontiac Solstice GXP dominated not only the inaugural 2WD Time Attack class, but when the dust settled, he was four-seconds faster than Nathan Conley in an '03 Subaru WRX Wagon competing in the 4WD division. Millen made it up the mountain in 12:45.153, while his nearest competitor in the 2WD class, Colin J. McCleery in an '89 Ford Sierra, was a full minute and 50 seconds behind.

Millen was pleased with both his driving and the GXP, but was less enthused with the course conditions, citing poor traction on parts of the gravel-strewn stages.

You can read Millen's full account of the race in the press release after the jump, while the overall standings of all the competitors can be viewed here.

[Sources: GM, PPHIC]

Continue reading Pikes Peak: Millen dominates RWD Time Attack class

Pikes Peak: Millen dominates RWD Time Attack class originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Jul 2007 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For more years than we can count, we've threatened to make it to Colorado to experience the spectacle that is the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Making it out this year was yet another logistical nightmare, so we've decided to live vicariously through our friends in attendance, while keeping tabs on our hero, Rhys Millen and his Red Bull Pontiac Solstice GXP.

We gave you the details on Rhys' ride last month, the same GXP that he's been sliding sideways since his GTO exited stage left. On Thursday, Mr. Millen made his way up the first section of the mountain in an absolutely scorching 5:32:756, taking first place in the inaugural Time Attack two-wheel drive class, and leaving his nearest competitor nearly a full minute behind.

He tells the tale in the press release after the jump, but one factoid in the text deserves note: he's running E85 in an effort to cope with the elevation changes and the high temps of running a turbocharged vehicle up the hill. According to Millen, his success is attributed to the combination of his sideways skills and the E85 engine's ability to keep cool under duress. They're not even running a spray system on the intercooler - impressive, to say the least.

Make the jump to get the skinny on the qualifying session, and be sure to check back tomorrow when we'll have an update on Rhys' overall performance at the Race to the Clouds.

[Source: GM]

Continue reading Pikes Peak: Millen posts fastest time in RWD Time Attack class

Pikes Peak: Millen posts fastest time in RWD Time Attack class originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jul 2007 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gxppontiacrhys millenRhysMillensolsticeSat, 21 Jul 2007 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Millen set to run Solstice GXP up Pike's Peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/23/millen-set-to-run-solstice-gxp-up-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/23/millen-set-to-run-solstice-gxp-up-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/23/millen-set-to-run-solstice-gxp-up-pikes-peak/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The organizers of this year's Pike's Peak Hill Climb have added a new Time Attack class to the event, and one of our personal heroes is returning to beat the mountain into submission.

Rhys Millen, the pilot of the 550 HP Pontiac Solstice GXP drift car, Pike's Peak veteran, renowned rally racer and all-around driving deity, will be flogging his heavily modified sideways sidewinder up the hill during the Time Attack's inaugural run.

The Solstice itself will remain relatively unmodified for the event, keeping the same suspension setup, but tweaking the ECU to cope with the elevation changes and its affect on the air/fuel ratio.

There's too much good stuff to summarize here, so we'd encourage you to click the 'Read' link below for all the details, including several choice insights from Millen.

[Source: GM]

Millen set to run Solstice GXP up Pike's Peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Jun 2007 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftdriftinggxphill climbHillClimbmillenpikes peakPikesPeakpontiacrallyrhysrhys millenRhysMillensolsticetime attackTimeAttackSat, 23 Jun 2007 19:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/18/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-pontiac-solstice-gxp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/18/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-pontiac-solstice-gxp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/18/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-pontiac-solstice-gxp/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Pontiac Solstice is the crown prince of the General's lineup. With curves and flares, bulges and rakes, it's the modern equivalent of the Coke bottle aesthetic of yesteryear. Sure, some may prefer its sheetmetal sibling the Sky, but regardless of your chosen chariot, they're both head-turners. When the Solstice was introduced last year, however, it lacked the firepower to back up its sex-on-wheels image. Until now.


Gallery: Review: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP


All Photos Copyright (C)2007 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP

Review: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 pontiac solstice2007 pontiac solstice gxp2007PontiacSolstice2007PontiacSolsticeGxpchevroletchevycorvettefeaturedgxpmazdamiatamx-5pontiacpontiac solsticepontiac solstice gxpPontiacSolsticePontiacSolsticeGxpredlinereviewsaturnskysolsticesolstice gxpSolsticeGxpMon, 18 Jun 2007 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[50 Cent really does likes Pontiacs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/04/50-cent-really-does-likes-pontiacs/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/04/50-cent-really-does-likes-pontiacs/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/04/50-cent-really-does-likes-pontiacs/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Remember when we suggested there was no way that rapper 50 Cent would choose to put two Pontiacs, the G8 and G6 GXP, in his video for "Amusement Park"? In fact, we went so far as to say that you'd have to suspend disbelief in order to think that Fiddy would want his girlz sliding all over Pontiacs instead of Lambos and Bentleys.

Well, we were wrong.

What we should have remembered is that rappers work in mysterious ways. According to a Pontiac spokeswoman, 50 saw the G6 GXP -- a car that could be called "Flipper" based on that massive, trunk-mounted fluke -- and G8 at the NAIAS, and requested them himself. Total cost to Pontiac: $0.00.

The last time we heard about 50 being pulled over, it was in a Murcielago Roadster, and word is he's also selling his Connecticut mansion. Does his new album "Curtis" and the Pontiac fetish herald a slower, more frugal 50 Cent?

Thanks for the tip, Alex!

[Source: Freep]

50 Cent really does likes Pontiacs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jun 2007 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5050 cent50Centamusementcentcurtisg6G6 GXPG6Gxpg8gxpparkplacementpontiacrap videoRapVideovideoMon, 04 Jun 2007 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Pontiac G6 GXP]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/08/detroit-auto-show-pontiac-g6-gxp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/08/detroit-auto-show-pontiac-g6-gxp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/08/detroit-auto-show-pontiac-g6-gxp/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the image above for a full-size gallery.

We've already shown you what Pontiac plans to campaign in the Grand American Sports Car Series, now we'd like to introduce you to the vehicle on which it's based: the Pontiac G6 GXP.

We use the term "based" relatively loosely, as the production G6 GXP won't come with carbon-fiber body panels, a honking LS2 V8 or rear-wheel drive. What you do get when you upgrade, is a little more pedestrian Pontiac excitement.

Like its larger sibling, the Torrent GXP, the G6 GXP will get GM's 3.6-liter V6, complete with variable valve timing, 252 HP and 251 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed, automatic that's been optimized for front-wheel drive performance.

On the outside, the GXP variant can be distinguished from its lesser counterparts by revised front and rear ends, chrome grill surrounds, bulging hood with scoops and a "hammerhead" spoiler. Naturally, upgraded wheels are part of the mix, so you'll find a set of multi-spoke, 18-inchers at all four corners.

The front suspension utilizes a MacPherson strut setup, complete with aluminum control arms, while the rear gets a four-link independent suspension.

While it may not be as close to its racetrack-bred elder brother as some would like, the G6 GXP may prove the axiom of selling on Monday whatcha raced on Sunday.

The full press release is post after the jump.



For our comprehensive listing of everything from Detroit, click here.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: Pontiac G6 GXP

Detroit Auto Show: Pontiac G6 GXP originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jan 2007 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>g6gxppontiacMon, 08 Jan 2007 20:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Solstice beats Miata in sales for 2006]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/14/solstice-beats-miata-in-sales-for-2006/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/14/solstice-beats-miata-in-sales-for-2006/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/14/solstice-beats-miata-in-sales-for-2006/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



When the Pontiac Solstice first arrived on the scene, the buff books said it was nice but that the new generation Mazda Miata was still the better two-seat, rear-wheel drive ragtop. The Miata has, in fact, proven it's the best low-priced roadster in the U.S. by racking up significant and steady sales for Mazda since it debuted in 1989. Of course, 2006 is the first full year in which the Miata actually has to contend with some competition. Both the Pontiac Solstice, and later the Saturn Sky, were unveiled to extremely high consumer demand, and we've learned that apparently consumers don't care all that much about which car has less body roll, is faster in the slalom or can grip the road with more confidence. The excitement of a reasonably priced rear-wheel drive convertible from our very own General Motors was enough, in fact, to propel the Solstice to 18,362 unit sales by the end of November. The Miata sold 15,873 units through November.

Next year will be even more interesting as each ragtop arrives ready to fight. Production will be up to speed on the 260-hp Pontiac Solstice GXP, and the Miata will be available with a retractable hardtop that doesn't devour trunk space. This will be an extremely fun rivalry to watch over the years.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Solstice beats Miata in sales for 2006 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Dec 2006 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GXPMiatasalesSolsticeThu, 14 Dec 2006 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Proof of evolution: Pontiac announces next gen GXP.R racer for GT racing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/05/proof-of-evolution-pontiac-announces-next-gen-gxp-r-racer-for-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/05/proof-of-evolution-pontiac-announces-next-gen-gxp-r-racer-for-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/05/proof-of-evolution-pontiac-announces-next-gen-gxp-r-racer-for-g/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Pontiac will continue it's GT class racing efforts with the new GXP.R, a car that replaces the successful GTO.R (pictured). The GXP.R is being tested today for the very first time in Florida. Pontiac is looking to rack up wins, so it's decided to continue its development partnership with Pratt & Miller Engineering who spent most of last season working on the new car. The GXP.R, photos of which GM has yet to release, is set to bow at the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona carrying primary sponsorship from Leighton Reese's Banner Engineering. We're not sure on what production car the GXP.R will be based, if it will remain the GTO despite that car's last year of production being 2006, or if it will change to a new vehicle entirely.

The number 06 GXP.R is the result of Pontiac's GT class championship program evolving after campaigning the GTO.R in 2005 and 2006. Leighton Reese Racing will be campaigning a pair of GXP.R cars from track to track in an effort to bring home checkered flags for itself and GM. Reese has been loyal to GM since forming his racing enterprise in 1986, and will drive one of the two GXP.Rs, along wilth factory aces Kelly Collins and Paul Edwards.

Press release after the jump.

[Source: GM]

Continue reading Proof of evolution: Pontiac announces next gen GXP.R racer for GT racing

Proof of evolution: Pontiac announces next gen GXP.R racer for GT racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Dec 2006 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>General Motors racingGeneralMotorsRacingGMGrand Am classGrand Am racingGrandAmClassGrandAmRacingGT classGtClassGTOGXPLeighton Reese RacingLeightonReeseRacingPontiacPontiac RacingPontiacRacingRacingTue, 05 Dec 2006 14:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: GM's super Thetas from Chevy and Pontiac]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/12/spy-shots-gms-super-thetas-from-chevy-and-pontiac/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/12/spy-shots-gms-super-thetas-from-chevy-and-pontiac/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/12/spy-shots-gms-super-thetas-from-chevy-and-pontiac/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Chevy Equinox and Pontiac Torrent, General Motors' two badge-engineered SUVs based on the Theta platform, are about as vanilla as sport utilities come. Therefore, we've been eager to learn more info about high performance versions the General has in the works. The Equinox one will be badged as an SS model, while the Torrent's will be either a GT or GXP. Both models sport larger wheel/tire combos that look neatly tucked in their wheel wells thanks to a lowered suspension. Each ute's front fascia will also be modified with additional air intakes that butch up their rather boring mugs. What we're really interested in is the powerplant that GM has decided to stuff into these two vehicles. Replacing the rather weak 3.4-liter V6 that produces 185 horsepower in the Equinox and Torrent will be GM's high-tech 3.6-liter V6 producing 275 horsepower. That's a big bump of 90 horsepower that will surely change the flavor of these Thetas.

[Source: Cheers and Gears]

Spy Shots: GM's super Thetas from Chevy and Pontiac originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Nov 2006 15:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EquinoxGXPspy picsSpyPicsSSTorrentSun, 12 Nov 2006 15:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Pontiac product placement targets pulp fiction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/19/pontiac-product-placement-targets-pulp-fiction/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/19/pontiac-product-placement-targets-pulp-fiction/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/19/pontiac-product-placement-targets-pulp-fiction/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pontiac is breaking new ground with product placement next month with "Rush City," a DC Comics production heavily funded by General Motors in an attempt to hock its Pontiac brand to men in their 20s and 30s. The six-issue series will debut on July 19.

The Pontiac Solstice a chick car? Not when a New York action hero tricks out his GXP with guns and other superhero gear. "Rush City" is about an ordinary guy -- good job as a firefighter, fantastic fiancee with a daughter who's crazy about her soon-to-be stepdad, and a Pontiac Solstice GXP. Then he loses it all, except the car of course. After losing his job, his fiancee and her daughter die in a fire. It's so traumatic for him that he has nothing else to do but become a superhero.

General Motors isn't the only one going after comic book product placement -- DaimlerChrysler and Nike are going there too. 

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Pontiac product placement targets pulp fiction originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jun 2006 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DC ComicsDcComicsgxppontiac solsticePontiacSolsticeproduct placementProductPlacementMon, 19 Jun 2006 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Auto Show: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP high-res photos]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/14/new-york-auto-show-2007-pontiac-solstice-gxp-high-res-photos/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/14/new-york-auto-show-2007-pontiac-solstice-gxp-high-res-photos/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/14/new-york-auto-show-2007-pontiac-solstice-gxp-high-res-photos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're looking for some high-resolution photos of the upcoming Pontiac Solstice GXP, we've got you covered. We caught the screaming yellow roadster on display in New York and snapped a few shots for your enjoyment. If you're interested in the 260 HP turbo Ecotec that resides under the hood, stay tuned, as we'll be taking a deep dive into the direct-injection lump in a upcoming post.

We've got more photos after the jump, and click on any of the thumbnails to get the larger version.

Continue reading New York Auto Show: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP high-res photos

New York Auto Show: 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP high-res photos originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Apr 2006 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convertibledirect injectionEcotecGXPNew YorkPontiacroadsterSolsticeturbochargedFri, 14 Apr 2006 10:29:00 EST