Unusual to domestic offerings is the positioning of the G8's power window switches on the centre console. This didn't bother me but it can impart confusion to those accustomed to door-mounted switches. In general, the cabin is visually appealing, incorporating materials of decent quality while providing occupants with exceptionally generous dimensions in which to comfortably settle.
The last word on the cabin goes to the fixed rear seat that constrains cargo capacity. Yes, there's a generously sized pass-thru, but don't expect to drop the rear seatback to enhance trunk capacity.
Aussie power
Upscale tester was fitted with the base G8 engine, which is an Australian-made 3.6-litre DOHC V6 capable of dispensing 256 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm along with 248 pound-feet of torque at 2,100 rpm. Backing-up the mill from down-under is a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring manual-mode shifting via the stick.
This unit provides crisp manual shifts and smooth automatic cog changes. It's however not capable of rpm-matching on downshifts and it's devoid of today's "ever popular" paddle shifting arrangement.
Those seeking more Aussie-rules muscle can opt for the gutsy V8 powering the G8 GT. This mighty 6.0-litre mill is rated at 361 horsepower; it's paired to a 6-speed autobox, again sans paddle shifters.
G8 V6 on the road
First of all, let me get this off my chest: the V6 exhaust note is sporty, in fact too sporty for me. The engine is operationally very smooth but its auditory score is on the "growly" side. Now that may please many but not me; I prefer turbine-like refinement.
Along with the production of sound, the engine produces plenty of low-end torque, which is utmost pleasing on the road. The net result is lots of oomph without the need push the engine into dropping to a lower cog to secure torque generally found higher levels of rpm in a typical V6 mill.
RWD is pure pleasure
It's refreshing to climb aboard a Pontiac sedan these days and find it propelled by its rear-wheel-drive. It's this configuration that's at the root of the G8's sensational handling dynamics and its balanced chassis. The engineers at GM's Pontiac Division did their homework in calibrating the G8's underpinnings.
This is quite a large sedan, but you wouldn't know it from behind the wheel. The G8's steering is quick, responsive and precise. Best of all, it works in perfect harmony with the rear wheels. Dipping into the throttle during a turn sets the car up for secure, stable, quick departure; it all just feels right.
Ride quality better than expected
Knowing the Holden Commodore's reputation for impressive handling capabilities, I was prepared for a harsh, unkind ride when first settling into the G8. A few minutes behind the wheel found me approving of the domestic Holden's favourable treatment; this car delivers a comfortable ride. No, it's far from a creampuff but it's not as edgy as one might think.
G8 will raises the bar
In terms of a spacious 4-door V6-powered performance sedan, the G8 raises the bar with an entry ticket of $31,995. My tester with its preferred option group tipped the scale at $36,550; that included among other niceties, a power sunroof, premium Blaupunkt sound, dual-zone climate control and leather upholstery.
photo:Rob Rothwell
The last word on the cabin goes to the fixed rear seat that constrains cargo capacity. Yes, there's a generously sized pass-thru, but don't expect to drop the rear seatback to enhance trunk capacity.
Aussie power
Upscale tester was fitted with the base G8 engine, which is an Australian-made 3.6-litre DOHC V6 capable of dispensing 256 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm along with 248 pound-feet of torque at 2,100 rpm. Backing-up the mill from down-under is a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring manual-mode shifting via the stick.
This unit provides crisp manual shifts and smooth automatic cog changes. It's however not capable of rpm-matching on downshifts and it's devoid of today's "ever popular" paddle shifting arrangement.
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| The leather perches in my tester were tremendously satisfying once adjusted to fit my dimensions. |
Those seeking more Aussie-rules muscle can opt for the gutsy V8 powering the G8 GT. This mighty 6.0-litre mill is rated at 361 horsepower; it's paired to a 6-speed autobox, again sans paddle shifters.
G8 V6 on the road
First of all, let me get this off my chest: the V6 exhaust note is sporty, in fact too sporty for me. The engine is operationally very smooth but its auditory score is on the "growly" side. Now that may please many but not me; I prefer turbine-like refinement.
Along with the production of sound, the engine produces plenty of low-end torque, which is utmost pleasing on the road. The net result is lots of oomph without the need push the engine into dropping to a lower cog to secure torque generally found higher levels of rpm in a typical V6 mill.
RWD is pure pleasure
It's refreshing to climb aboard a Pontiac sedan these days and find it propelled by its rear-wheel-drive. It's this configuration that's at the root of the G8's sensational handling dynamics and its balanced chassis. The engineers at GM's Pontiac Division did their homework in calibrating the G8's underpinnings.
This is quite a large sedan, but you wouldn't know it from behind the wheel. The G8's steering is quick, responsive and precise. Best of all, it works in perfect harmony with the rear wheels. Dipping into the throttle during a turn sets the car up for secure, stable, quick departure; it all just feels right.
Ride quality better than expected
Knowing the Holden Commodore's reputation for impressive handling capabilities, I was prepared for a harsh, unkind ride when first settling into the G8. A few minutes behind the wheel found me approving of the domestic Holden's favourable treatment; this car delivers a comfortable ride. No, it's far from a creampuff but it's not as edgy as one might think.
G8 will raises the bar
In terms of a spacious 4-door V6-powered performance sedan, the G8 raises the bar with an entry ticket of $31,995. My tester with its preferred option group tipped the scale at $36,550; that included among other niceties, a power sunroof, premium Blaupunkt sound, dual-zone climate control and leather upholstery.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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