Pontiac’s story is one of highs and lows, and sadly, the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP arrived right at the brand’s sunset. This V8-powered machine, especially the sought-after 2009 Pontiac G8 Gxp Coupe (though primarily offered as a sedan), was a shining example of what Pontiac could achieve: raw American muscle with modern driving dynamics. Coming from Down Under but packing a distinctly American punch, the G8 GXP was equipped with rear-wheel drive and a roaring V8 engine, a combination that speaks directly to the heart of car enthusiasts. For those lucky enough to experience it with the six-speed manual transmission, the G8 GXP offered a pure, engaging driving experience that few cars could match at the time.
Under the hood of the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP coupe (and sedan) resided a potent 6.2-liter LS3 engine. This powerplant, combined with the G8’s well-engineered rear-wheel-drive platform, delivered on Pontiac’s promise of “We build excitement.” It was a car that not only looked the part but also delivered thrilling performance, making it a true driver’s machine. The tragedy, as many reviewers noted, was that this fantastic car was launched just as Pontiac was being phased out, cutting its life tragically short.
David S. Wallens, Editorial Director, highlighted the irony of one of the best “American” cars being produced in Australia and then being discontinued so quickly. He lamented the fact that the G8 GXP, a comfortable, fast, and well-equipped car, couldn’t have been rebranded as a Chevy to continue its life. Wallens predicted that in the future, these cars would become highly desirable in the used car market, a testament to their inherent quality and appeal.
Joe Gearin, PowerDork, echoed the sentiment of disappointment, stating that the G8 GXP was another example of GM creating a great car only to kill it off. He praised the G8’s composure, comfort, good looks, and abundance of power and handling. While acknowledging some minor interior shortcomings and styling choices, Gearin emphasized that the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP coupe (and sedan) was a “huge home run” for GM, if only they had decided to keep it. Gearin even boldly stated his preference for the G8 GXP over the BMW M5 (SMG) of the time, even without budget constraints, underscoring just how impressive the Pontiac was. He wished for GM to reconsider and revive the car as an Impala SS, recognizing its exceptional value as a performance sedan.
JG Pasterjak, Tech Editor & Production Manager, despite limited seat time, immediately recognized the appeal of the G8 GXP. He placed it within the lineage of great American hot-rod sedans like the GN/GNX and GTO, cars often underappreciated in their time only to become legends later. Pasterjak hoped that future iterations of this type of car would receive the appreciation they deserve from the start.
In conclusion, the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP coupe (and sedan) stands as a bittersweet reminder of Pontiac’s potential. It was a powerful, engaging, and well-rounded performance car that arrived too late to save the brand but not too late to leave a lasting impression on car enthusiasts. Its combination of V8 power, rear-wheel drive, and available manual transmission made it a standout in its class, and its premature demise only adds to its allure and collectibility in the used market. For those seeking a true American muscle sedan with modern underpinnings, the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP remains a compelling, albeit rare, choice.
