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2004 Pontiac Grand Prix Mid-Size Sedan
…Continued
Pontiac's Most Visible Model Takes Race Track Success to the Showroom
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The new Grand Prix will be built on the existing GM ?W? platform (which is the underpinnings of the highly regarded Oldsmobile Aurora). While the Grand Prix will retain the same basic size as the current model it will be able to take advantage of the ?W? platforms suspension development. This should provide ride and handling refinement to the Grand Prix. Augmenting this better chassis is the availability of GMs very good stability control software, StabiliTrak Plus. Steering is through the second generation Magnasteer that promises improved performance over the first generation.
The interior of the Grand Prix has been refreshed starting with a very tidy instrument panel. The dashboard features a set of round gauges trimmed in a satin metallic finish, very tasteful. The center stack features flush fit HVAC and audio controls (the door mounted switchgear is also flush fitted). The choice of materials and textures is a definite step up from previous models. Seating is generous for four, five in a pinch. The seating material takes advantage of better fabrics and leather than the previous model. There is also a Heads Up Display (HUD) that includes a ?stealth mode? feature where the IP lighting can be turned off when the HUD is on at night. The standard Driver Information Center and optional Trip Computer and HUD units feature view screen reconfigurability with more capability than the previous model. The HUD features a more readable green backlighting and displays more information in three languages, including speed, turn signals, high-beam indicator, warning messages, radio/CD/tape status, ice warning, outside air temperature, and compass.
To enhance utility the rear doors open wide allowing bulky parcels to be loaded in the rear seats. Further the rear seats feature a 60/40 split fold down and long objects can be inserted through the trunk. The trunk opening features scissor hinges which do not intrude in the cargo space.
The Grand Prix GT will come equipped with the venerable 3800 V6 and an automatic transmission. Rated at 200 HP the V6 actually feels stronger due to its large amount of available torque. The GTP comes equipped with an uprated supercharged version of the 3800 V6 now sporting 255 HP, 15 more than the current generation Grand Prix.
Available as an option package for the GTP is the ?Competition Group?. This package provides 17 inch wheels, speed rated tires and specific chassis tuning to provide increased lateral support. It also includes StabiliTrak Plus to enhance control. Shifting for the Comp G package can be accomplished by steering wheel control that Pontiac calls TAP for Touch Activated Power. This allows the driver to control the shift points of the automatic transmissions using a pair of paddles on the spokes of the steering wheel.
As of this writing, Pontiac has solidified their image on the racetrack, and Tony Stewart leads the NASCAR points championship driving a Grand Prix, with only a few races left. Pontiac has spent a great deal of effort to improve the Grand Prix to expand its performance in an effort to attract a wider range of enthusiasts. The proof of their efforts will be in the driving and we eagerly await a chance to get our hands on a Comp G equipped 2004 Pontiac GTP.
Pros: Performs well with among the gest acceleration in the class. Fun to drive. Lots of cargo and storage capacity.
Cons: Rear-seat legroom is uncomfortably small and the seat-cusion lacks support. Outdated styling. Poor build quality.
Ratings (1-10)
- Style: 3
- Performance: 8
- Price: 6
- Handling: 7
- Ride: 7
- Comfort: 4
- Quality: 5
- Overall: 5.7
MORE DATA
Where Built: Canada
Major Options: head-up display, heated seats, leather upholstry, On Star, power seats, power sunroof, satellite radio, side-curtain airbags, upgraded stereo,
Seating: 5
Number of Rows: 2
Crash Test Ratings:
- NHTSA Frontal Impact/Driver Crash Test Rating: Not Yet Tested
- NHTSA Frontal Impact/Passenger Crash Test Rating: Not Yet Tested
- NHTSA Side Impact/Front Seat Crash Test Rating: Not Yet Tested/LI>
- NHTSA Side Impact/Rear Seat Crash Test Rating: Not Yet Tested
- NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating: Not Yet Tested
- IIHS Frontal Offset Crash Test: Not Yet Tested
Length in Inches: 198.3
Warrantees: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 6 years/100,000 miles corrosion, 3 years/36,000 miles free Roadside Assistance.
Weight in Pounds: 3,477
Towing Capacity in Pounds: Not Applicable
Gas Tank Capacity in Gallons: 17.0
Destination Charge: $635
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