2000 Pontiac Bonneville

By Bob Storck

Pontiac changed just about every component in this redesign. It is intent on keeping the performance image of the brand, yet does not overlook comfort. The rest of the improvements are to interior and convenience items. The current theme is "Luxury with Attitude.

Bonneville now shares the Seville architecture which offers outstanding ride quality, handling, sound isolation, and safety. Beneath the hood, Pontiac made significant improvements to the 3800 Series II V6, supercharged in the SSEi, and Bonneville is one of the world's most powerful sport sedans.

The 2000 model features all-new proportions, including the widest overall track in its competitive set; a robust Coke-bottle shape, cat's-eye headlamps, and integrated wide bodyside sculpting -- all signature Pontiac styling cues. The SSEi looks are pugnacious, and the hood fairly bulges with power potential.

The interior is equally aggressive, and the muscle machine message is loud-and-clear. The SE comes with optional six-passenger seating, but with the modest interior size, the center seats should be reserved for small people or short trips.