EDMUNDS.COM 2005 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Fast and fun to drive, the Grand Prix is still too rough around the edges to steal the hearts of import buyers.
Pros
Strong supercharged V6, nimble handling, attractive gauges, easy-to-use controls, big trunk, fold-flat front-passenger seat.
Cons
Build and materials quality still needs some work, tight backseat, noisy engine.
What''s New for 2005
The changes are all in the details for 2005. Option packages have been shuffled a bit, as have the wheel choices. New radio units include a CD/MP3 player and a DVD-based navigation system with six-disc CD changer. Remote vehicle start is now available in all models.
Overview
Introduction:
As eagerly as we tout the virtues of cars like the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Volkswagen Passat, we know that not every shopper wants a midsize sedan with an import label. Whether it has to do with loyalty to the traditional American brands, distaste for import dealerships unwilling to offer big discounts or a desire to differentiate oneself from the droves of Accord and Camry owners, there are some who simply aren''t going to buy one of the recommended picks. And that''s fine -- there are some domestic sedans that merit consideration even when the imports are still in the picture. The Pontiac Grand Prix is such a car. Redesigned for ''04, the Grand Prix benefited from stronger, more refined engines; fine-tuned ride and handling characteristics; and a friendlier cockpit design with large gauges and, for the most part, simple controls. Exterior styling is always subjective, but for the record, we like the smooth, reptilian front end but could do without the car''s lumpy hindquarters and the oddly high placement of the body-side molding strips. Inside, despite a few notable improvements, the quality of the materials and craftsmanship still leaves room for improvement. A pair of powerful V6 engines are offered in the Grand Prix, offering 200 (GT1 and GT2) or 260 horsepower (GTP). Certainly the Grand Prix GTP has enough power to make everyday driving entertaining and it handles quite capably, almost feeling tossable -- quite a compliment for a relatively large front-drive sedan. Even the base car provides an enjoyable drive thanks to its torquey engine and responsive chassis. But in spite of the fun factor, the Grand Prix wouldn''t be our first choice for a family car -- the backseat is cramped and there''s just no place to put juice boxes or toys. While it would be nice if it offered this versatility (like the Accord, Altima and Maxima), this isn''t grounds for dismissal. After all, we know plenty of people who just want a powerful midsize sedan that''s comfortable enough to drive to work during the week and roomy enough to take out a friend or two on the weekend. Better yet, the Grand Prix is an excellent handler, relishing the occasional workout on two-lane highways. If you can put up with a boisterous but well-intentioned engine and inconsistent build and materials quality, give this Pontiac a try. If refinement is what you''re ultimately after, however, it''s better to stick with the imports.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Grand Prix is available as a four-door sedan in one of three trim levels -- Base, GT and GTP. The base model comes with 16-inch wheels, foglights, a CD player, cruise control and power windows, mirrors and locks. The GT adds ABS, alloy wheels and a power driver seat, while opening up options like leather upholstery, a sunroof and a head-up display. Along with a supercharged engine, the GTP gets 17-inch alloy wheels and OnStar telematics. The GTP is eligible for the enthusiast-oriented Competition Group. The Comp G package retrofits the GTP with a more aggressive 3.29-to-1 final drive ratio, an automanual mode, firmer suspension tuning, performance tires, an enthusiast-oriented stability control system (StabiliTrak Sport), upgraded steering that varies effort levels in response to cornering forces, red brake calipers and, inside the cockpit, a head-up display. Other options include dual-zone automatic climate control, a nine-speaker Monsoon stereo, an in-dash CD changer, a navigation system and satellite radio.
Powertrains and Performance:
A pair of 3.8-liter V6s serves duty in the Grand Prix. In the base and GT models, the standard V6 makes 200 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. The GTP has a supercharged version rated for 260 ponies and 280 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come with a four-speed automatic gearbox. GTPs equipped the Competition Group have a manual-shift mode as well. Mileage ratings are 18-20 in the city and 28-30 on the highway.
Safety:
Antilock brakes and traction control are optional on the base model and standard on the GT and the GTP. Stability control is available as part of the Competition Group package for the GTP. Front and rear side curtain airbags are optional on the GT and GTP. In government crash tests, the Grand Prix earned three out of five stars for side impacts (front and rear), but the car tested did not have the side curtain airbags. Frontal crash tests resulted in a three out of five stars rating for the driver, and four stars for the passenger.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Inside, there''s a definite cockpit theme, as the center stack curves to meet the driver and the gauges and displays are all in red. Control layouts are simple and intuitive, even the trip computer. The front seats are broad and comfortable, though taller adults may find headroom limited. The backseat is cramped, with a low bench and tight foot room making it a last resort for adults. At least there''s plenty of cargo space, thanks to a 16-cubic-foot trunk, a 60/40-split rear seat and a fold-flat front-passenger seat.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Even the base engine furnishes brisk response at low- and midrange speeds, but we certainly enjoy the rush of the supercharged V6. The four-speed automatic shifts smartly on its own, and we like that the automanual mode in the GTP Comp G allows full manual operation. Ride quality is comfortable enough for weekday commutes. Although all Grand Prixs are excellent handlers, the responsive GTP Comp G is definitely the car for the enthusiast.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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