2004 Pontiac Grand Prix

The drivers' cockpit area is crisply defined. Red-on-gray instruments with a large centered speedo are easy to read if just a bit show car-like. We liked the charcoal gray and satin nickel trim but the leather shift knob is a tad larger than it needs to be. It's probably that way to encourage use of the steering wheel buttons. A small heads-up display flashes warnings in a choice of English, French or Spanish. Further on the plus side, the Grand Prix is roomy with rear doors that swing wide to 82 degrees, so you can easily load in a bulky TV or computer. Similarly, the trunk opening is nearly 10 inches wider than the old car and the lift-over height is nearly six inches lower. There's an optional fold-flat front passenger seat. When you lower the 60/40 rears, creating 57 cu.-ft. of space, Pontiac claims you can load a 9-foot ladder or a kayak and close the trunk. Then you can have a nice conversation with your passenger sitting right behind you.


Every modern safety device is included or available, including side curtain airbags. Pricing begins at a reasonable $21,760 for the normally aspirated 200 hp GT version; the topline GTP is $25,860. Add $635 destination charges to both. The Comp G package with Stabilitrak Sport and upgraded suspension is another $1,395. A loaded GTP tops out at about $28K, comfortably under many comparable rivals.


Clearly, Pontiac's engineers and stylists have been studying the competition. But they can only do what business case budgets allow. Positioning Pontiac as GM's performance division with a hint of European influence is laudable, but the Japanese and Continental competition—including GM-owned Saab, are increasingly upping the ante. Bottom line: Pontiac has to dig a little deeper. (www.pontiac.com)