2009 Pontiac G8

Under the hood of the GXP version rests as American a powerplant as was ever born, the latest and (nearly) greatest version of the Small Block Chevy, now called the LS3. At 6.2 liters, it grunts out 415 horsepower and the same amount of torque. Why "nearly" the greatest? Only the ZR1 and Cadillac CTS-v's supercharged version could be any greater. While the 2009 Pontiac G8 GT is served only with a six-speed automatic transmission, clutch-and-shifter types can opt for a six-speed manual. We tested both and found their accelerative performance nearly identical, favoring the stick by never more than a tenth or two. And the 2009 G8 GXP does its thing on regular-grade fuel, although it will earn a gas-guzzler tax.

There's no griping about the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP's ride and handling balance. In spite of some musclecar DNA, there's worldly breeding here. This machine is quiet at speed, with a minimum of wind noise or road rumble. The steering's weight, feel, and response are satisfying. The chassis tells you what's going on, and when the high limits are nearing. Weight distribution is a well-balanced 52 front, 48 rear. And it all comes in a package you can live with. Rear leg/headroom is excellent, even for tall occupants. The 17.5 cubic feet of trunk space is flat and useable. The audio and infotainment packages are acceptable, if not class leading, and we'd take a good touch-screen nav over OnStar's turn-by-turn directional guidance any day. Pontiac's maximum strength G8 is a few details shy of legend, but that doesn't diminish its huge appeal and sophisticated, capable performance. The G8 GXP is a terrific, all-around sport sedan that runs with high-priced Germans. Its strong value message isn't a qualifier either, just a bonus. You could also think of the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP as a four-door Corvette of sorts.

The G8 GXP may look similar to the 6.0-liter V-8-powered G8 GT, but underneath its vented hood is the 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 from the Corvette. Producing 415 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, this engine makes the GXP the most powerful production Pontiac ever. Pontiac claims that the 2009 G8 GXP, equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, will hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and burst through the quarter mile in 13.2 seconds at 109 mph. If you're looking to maximize excitement, though, get the optional six-speed manual transmission, with which a permagrin comes standard. The first stick-shift G8 uses the Tremec gearbox from the Corvette, replete with short-throw shifts and a perfectly weighted, easy-to-modulate clutch. Closely spaced ratios keep the LS3 in its power band - not to mention its acoustic sweet spot. However, at highway speeds, revs are just high enough to introduce some driveline vibration into the cabin, and since the LS3 doesn't have the GT's fuel-saving cylinder deactivation, the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP can barely manage 20 mpg.

The baddest Holden-turned-Pontiac gets GM's 6.2-liter LS3 small-block V-8, producing 402 hp and 402 lb-ft of torque - 41 hp and 17 lb-ft more than the L76-powered G8 GT. Pontiac predicts a 0-to-60-mph time of 4.7 seconds, with the quarter mile taking 13.0 seconds at 108 mph. The 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP comes with the six-speed automatic transmission found in the G8 GT but adds a three-pedal option with a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual. A limited-slip differential is standard, as are Brembo brakes. Exterior changes are subtle and include revised front and rear fascias. Nineteen-inch polished and machined aluminum wheels are tucked neatly under the G8's flared fenders. Inside, passengers will be greeted by bolstered GXP-embroidered seats.