2008 Pontiac G8 Preview
This Car is Hot
I was in the land of starlets and studs (aka Los Angeles) for the press launch of the 2008 Pontiac G8, so I guess it’s not too surprising that the phrase that kept coming to mind to describe the G8 was borrowed from Paris Hilton: “It’s hot.” So what if I’m using a worn-out phrase from one of society’s most useless celebutantes? It’s the plain truth about this car.
The G8 is fast and stylish — ideal for a hot momma who likes a speedy yet totally affordable ride. Even with the lure of speed set aside, this car has more than a few family-friendly features: The Latch anchors are easy to locate, and there’s lots of storage space, including a two-tiered glove compartment (wipes on top, with maps, brochures, etc. on bottom, and you’re instantly organized!), a low-lift trunk (making loading groceries effortless) and one of the largest trunk pass-thrus in the industry. In back, there’s nearly 40 inches of legroom, making for plenty of car seat and/or passenger space.
I said this car is affordable, and it is when you factor in how hot it is. The car comes in two versions — with either a V-6 or a V-8 engine — and prices start at $26,910 for the V-6 and $29,310 for the V-8. All told, you won’t spend more than $33K if you want a fully-loaded G8 with a whole lotta power.
I know technical talk is not hot, but there’s something you should know: The G8 has a function (called Driver Shift Control) that allows you to select one of three distinct shifting styles: Normal for an optimal blend of performance and fuel economy; Sport, which gives you a bit more “oomph” with the shifting points; and Manual for those of you who want the ultimate in “oomph” and control.
To sweeten the deal further — and make things more comfortable — you can opt for a dual-zone climate-control system (his and hers, if you will), as well as remote keyless entry and remote start (for days when it’s freezing outside and you want to warm things up before you slide onto the chilly leather). There’s also a theft-deterrent alarm system, because you don’t want someone stealing this hot rod!
You can even opt to customize your front seats to come in two-tone black and red leather. The G8 I drove at the launch had these seats, and I must say it’s not really my style. If you’re into that sort of thing, though, I say go for it — this car is hot!
Comments
Instantly with the latch anchors.
You know, I want to see Mother Proof go bad-@$$ chick sometime. Like Rhona Mitra in "Doomsday" bad ass. Like Sarah Connor bad ass.
I mean, here she is, reviewing a sports sedan and she is supposed to be some kind of suburban light-weight. I have the feeling that really she wants to rip out of her shell and tear Jeremy Clarkson a new place to defecate from..
Posted by: Tom L | Apr 28, 2008 2:38:23 PM
Tom, just so you know, our dear preggers Courtney did, in fact, haul some @$$ through the hills on this test drive (I held on tight in the passenger seat). She just wants to keep that on the "down low". Shhhh....
Posted by: Lori Hindman | Apr 29, 2008 12:22:29 PM
I'm totally a covert bad-@$$ chick - it's just that the whole pregnancy thing throws people off and my doctor recommends I keep it in check at least until the baby arrives. But Tom, when it happens, I'll let you know how totally ripping out of my shell goes!
Posted by: Courtney | May 6, 2008 3:57:59 PM
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I wonder if they'll offer VDC on this car. For that matter I wonder if VDC will be offered on both the 8 AND the 6?
So far Chrysler only offers it on the 8's in the Magnum/Carger/300. So you have to get the big engine to get the fuel economy mode. (?!?)
(Variable Deactivated Cylinders)
Posted by: Infosaur | Apr 27, 2008 11:48:58 AM