Given the GXP's out-lived design, it is still eye-catching and very sleek looking, especially when finished in the
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| Given the GXP's out-lived design, it is still eye-catching and very sleek looking. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
brilliant, Crimson Tintcoat red of my tester. Its monochromatic color scheme was highlighted by huge, 18-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels; the large openings of which expose, in a nice way, the Bonneville's prominent red-painted brake caliper assemblies - a la Porsche C4S. Other external improvements include the flush-mounted twin honeycomb grille openings, spicing up the wind-cheating nose of the big sedan. And just how big is this 4-door family hauler? Well let's do a little comparison-shopping. The GXP consumes 5,146 mm (202.6 in) of tarmac lengthwise; that's more real estate than required by the new Chrysler 300 at 4,888 mm (196.8 in), the 2004 Lexus LS 430 at 5,013 mm (197.4 in) and just slightly less moorage than an S-Class Mercedes-Benz at 5,158 mm (203.1 in). Although appearing aerodynamic, any way you
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| On the inside, the GXP model receives faux carbon fiber trim pieces plus stainless steel surfaced gas and brake pedals. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
slice it the Bonneville is substantive in size, translating of course into fairly spacious seating for five adults and plenty of cargo capacity. A number of technology and decorative touches are added to the interior when the GXP insignia is affixed to the Bonneville's front fenders, including a heads-up information display projected onto the lower portion of the windshield - something that was first introduced to the GM fold in this model even in its pre-2000 (current-generation) guise, and is showing up quite regularly on the automaker's high-end vehicles. Also take note of the faux carbon fiber trim pieces scattered throughout the cockpit, plus the stainless steel surfaced gas and brake pedals.
