Model Years and Main Features

• The Pontiac G8 GT only had two model years: 2008 and 2009. The 2009 model had a few additions, which included standard Bluetooth connectivity, XM Satellite Radio and four new exterior colors. Also, while the 2008 G8 GT had a 6.0-liter 361 horsepower V-8, GM/Pontiac shaved six horses off the 2009's engine. A six-speed automatic was the standard transmission on the G8 GT.
  
  

GT's Status as a Trim

• When the Pontiac G8 was brought to the United States for the 2008 model year, the GT was the higher-end of the two trims available, placed next to the generically labeled "Sedan." For 2009, however, GM introduced the GXP as the top-level trim. Its V-8 engine had 60 more horses, and it had additional features such as front heated seats.
  
  

Performance

• With no major engine-related adjustments, there were no differences in overall performance between the 2008 and 2009 model years of the G8 GT. Fuel economy was measured at 15 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving. The car could go from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than 5.5 seconds.
  
  

Reception and End of Production

• In 2009, GM sold more that 23,000 Pontiac G8s. Ultimately, though, the sales results, possibly impacted by the global economic downturn, were underwhelming for GM. When the automaker filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June, 2009, the Pontiac brand folded, consequently ending production of the G8. A month later, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz made an off-hand comment during a press review about resurrecting the G8 as the Chevrolet Caprice, only to quickly retract his statement.
  
  

Price

• The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 2008 Pontiac G8 GT was $29,310. For the 2009 model year, it was $31,555. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the G8 GT price value range at around $24,000 to $26,000 and Pontiac is getting rid of the last few thousands of new vehicles it has left.