Holden Commodore SSV/Future Pontiac G8 Tested

"If the SS V driving experience recalls any other car, it's the previous-generation M5. That sport-sedan icon was about the same overall size as the new Commodore and also had a six-speed stick, 400 horsepower, and a wonderfully sophisticated chassis. The tunes played out of the SS V's four-pipe exhaust will remind you of the Cadillac CTS-v. Acceleration is strong, and there's plenty of torque available over a broad powerband. Australian magazines report 0-to-60-mph times of around 5.7 seconds, not as quick as the more powerful GTO or CTS-v, but certainly respectable. Clutch takeup is smooth and progressive, the shifter clean and sure through its gates. As with most GM six-speeds, sixth gear is almost too tall, but makes for easy, high-speed cruising...."
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AMGC55 - 3/12/2007 3:35:45 PM

-2 Boost

just get a 335i sedan... quicker and better handling... but if you feel the need to go down under with yourself and get a 4 door gto than go right ahead

cthip - 3/12/2007 4:38:07 PM

+5 Boost

the g8 is a fair bit larger than the 335i, and predicted to be a bit cheaper as well so it hits a slightly different market demographic. as stated in the article, a close comparison might be a "poor-man's 5-series."

interesting though that you and the MT staff would make that comparison. 2-3 years ago when gm stated they wanted to elevate pontiac to compete with bmw, everybody (myself included) laughed. now motortrend, which has consistently LOVED bmw and HATED most (if not all) things gm, is drawing comparisons. this is a huge compliment from them.

keyzi747 - 3/12/2007 11:49:29 PM

+2 Boost

Well, they've converted me from my 330i Sport! I will be trading for a Pontiac G8 GTP as soon as they're available. I need something larger, but not as costly as a 5 Series.

SilverAero - 3/12/2007 11:53:40 PM

+2 Boost

Thats one sold. This is exactly what pontiac needs to do to survive is undercut bmw's market.