2008 Pontiac G8 Road Test Ratings

The Pontiac G8 is a solid-handling rear-drive machine that, in V8 trim, is a very credible performance sedan. Taught, athletic stlying hides the fact that the G8 is quite spacious inside.

Engine power is good, especially with the V8-powered G8 GT. The automatic transmission, the only offering, shifts smoothly. But it can feel sluggish unless you engage "Sport" mode. Handling is composed and sound, and the steering reacts directly and weights-up nicely in corners. We only wish the brakes felt a bit more positive; they stop just fine, but pedal travel is on the long side. All in all, the G8 is a well-sorted machine.

Inside, the G8 is a spacious car. Front- and rear-seat occupants have a lot of room, and the driver can easily adjust the driving position thanks to generous seat adjustments and a tilt-telescope wheel. To look at it, the G8 gives off a sporty vibe, but the ride is smooth and controlled and the interior is largely quiet. If anything, it could use more control as the body can bound over certain wavy roads.

Inside, the G8 GT is a mixed bag. Parts of it quite good: the instrument panel, the trunk, outward visibility. Certain interior details, however, are a bit odd owing to the hyper-symmetrical design chosen to make adapting this car to left- and right-hand driving markets. Some of the switches favor the Australian side of the car and the window and mirror controls are in the middle to make the doors universal. Cost effective? Yes. Ideal for the driver? Not always.

This is an attractive, athletic-looking car. The interior is interesting and tasteful, and it appears to be well assembled.