2007 Pontiac Grand Prix Review
One of General Motor’s most enduring models, the Grand Prix was first introduced in 1962. Over the years, it evolved – from a muscle car into a sporty family sedan. The last generation was introduced for 1997, and made available in the SE, GT, and GTP trims, with a supercharger available for the GTP. The last Grand Prix coupe was made in 2002. The current Grand Prix debuted in 2004.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Pontiac Grand Prix can’t decide if it’s a family sedan or a performance car. While it has acceptable performance and handling, we cannot recommend it for use as a family sedan. The rear seat lacks leg space and it simply has too many reliability and safety issues, not to mention a poor price/features ratio. If you’re interested in the Grand Prix, take a look at the Impala to see the same concept with a much better execution.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power and Associates gives the Grand Prix five out of five stars in initial reliability. Automotive Information Systems gave the 2004 model an overall green rating, but warned of moderate starting and charging problems. Regardless, the Grand Prix has been a problematic vehicle since at least 1997, with a long list of recorded issues and recalls. The current generation is no different, including these issues: Noisy brakes, defective chips, inaccurate fuel gauges, water leaks, and numerous transmission problems. The current Grand Prix was recalled three times in 2004: Once for fracturing brackets, another for failing accelerator pedal springs, and again for improper torque. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis of Safety Ratings and Features:
The Grand Prix earned four and a half out of five stars in government frontal crash tests, but only three stars in side tests. The IIHS gave it a “Good” score for frontal impacts, but only a “Marginal” rating for side impacts, and its worst “Poor” rating for rear impacts. Tire pressure monitoring is now standard on all models. The GXP comes standard with antilock brakes, as well as stability and traction control. The GT has all of those standard, except stability control. Side airbags are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful engine
+ Standard tire pressure monitoring
+ Cool exterior
Cons
– Poor reliability
– Poor crash scores
– Few standard safety features
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Grand Prix is yet another GM vehicle that doesn’t know if its a family sedan or a muscle car, and it seriously hurts its competitive edge. Even within GM’s lineup, the Chevrolet Impala is a better overall option. Costing about $800 more, the Impala comes with ABS, traction control, and side airbags standard. The Honda Accord LX also presents a better value, costing about the same, but featuring better gas mileage, ABS, side airbags, and a CD changer. However, the Grand Prix does have a much more powerful engine. You might also consider the Mercury Milan, which also has a weaker engine, but costs almost $1,000 less and features ABS, side airbags, a CD changer, and leather seats.
What Others Are Saying:
“Overall, the Grand Prix reflects how far General Motors has progressed-and how far it has fallen short-in its efforts to design top-notch cars. The Grand Prix is mechanically mature, with a smooth, potent drivetrain and a nimble transmission. But it’s a step or two away from the fast lane when it comes to the finer points of performance, and the interior styling is slapdash.” – U.S.News & World Report
“The 3.8-liter V6 engine powering the Grand Prix has a long and successful history for GM. It powers everything GM offers, almost, and is a solid engine. We had plenty of power for quick acceleration, and still averaged nearly 25 mpg for mainly highway driving.” – The Auto Channel
“Power and handling are highly rated by 2007 Grand Prix owners. Even the V6 provides a fun ride. They also love the sleek exterior styling, the standard bells and whistles, and the large trunk. Plastic interior parts detract from the luxury styling. Rear legroom is still cramped, and headroom is compromised when you get the sunroof.” – CarGurus.com
Read more about the 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix at the Pontiac manufacturer web site.
