2008 Pontiac Solstice Review
The Solstice is a two-seat roadster that debuted in 2006. It’s Pontiac’s hottest model in years, with dealers having a hard time keeping them in stock. A turbocharged GXP edition was released in 2007. It was nominated for “North American Car of the Year” in 2006.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Pontiac Solstice is a return to form for this sporty GM offshoot. It’s everything the Pontiac name stands for: Sharp looks and break-neck performance. But while it could easily beat the Miata in a beauty pageant, it lags behind in price and features. But despite that fact, for those who find the Miata’s svelte styling a deal breaker, the Solstice is a worthy contender.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Solstice 2.5 stars for mechanical quality, 2 stars for design quality and 4 stars for performance. Problems include rattling shifters and troublesome convertible tops. No recalls have been issued. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Solstice earned 4 stars in government crash tests. IIHS information is unavailable. The GXP includes anti-lock brakes and stability control, which are optional on the base model.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Sexy exterior
+ Fun to drive
+ Powerful
Cons
– Nonexistent trunk
– Seriously lacking in standard features
– Subpar safety
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Mazda MX-5 MIATA costs a few hundred less, includes ABS, side airbags, power accessories and air conditioning. The Saturn SKY, based on the same platform, includes AC, ABS and power accessories, but costs a few thousand more and has 40 less hp. The MINI Cooper convertible adds ABS, side airbags, AC, and power accessories, but has almost 60 less hp.
What Others Are Saying:
“There’s no question that the Pontiac Solstice is a driver’s car. If nothing else, the slick shifter and communicative rack-and-pinion steering demand constant involvement, in the same sense an intelligent, beautiful woman always keeps you on your toes. But the Solstice lacks that final measure of entertainment- a rorty engine note, a bit of unnecessary shove, some real delicacy at the limit- that would make it a “fun” driver’s car. For the vast majority of owners, that won’t be a problem. They’ll love the looks, live with the lid and laugh as they go.” – The Truth About Cars
“Nevertheless, functional or not this is one ultra sexy automobile. Pontiac will sell a ton of them. Good on you, Bob Lutz. Just work a bit on the storage, OK?” – About.com
“All this performance and the Solstice looks good too. It has clean, fluid lines, taut proportions and creates an emotional impact. It has a good looking easy to operate cloth convertible top with a glass back window, which when closed folds flat into a rear clamshell opening providing a seamless smooth expensive appearance.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2008 Pontiac Solstice at the Pontiac manufacturer web site.
