2004 Pontiac Grand Prix

I remember back a few decades ago, the Pontiac Grand Prix was a revered combination of sport, luxury and performance.

That hardly describes the Grand Prix of more recent years, however. Thanks to garish design, proclivity for plastic inside and out and performance that paled next to its imported rivals, it went from American dream to fleet sales staple.

But someone at Pontiac obviously remembers those early decades, too, and they decided to do something about the Grand Prix’s slide towards mediocrity.

That “something” rolls out as the 2004 model, a giant step towards reclaiming its heralded past.

The Good News
The first signal things are very different comes with the first glance. In place of that load of exterior plastic add-ons is a more sophisticated, unified shape. From the side, the new streamlined Grand Prix evokes a large coupe with rear windows tapering to an oval. Its exaggerated wedge profile and larger 17-inch wheels clad in sharp, tasteful cutouts enhance the notion. The leaner, cleaner look should appeal to grownups who like flair. Inside, improvements are equally remarkable. The fat, flimsy plastic knobs have been trimmed down and fortified. Everything looks and feels more substantial, and seams in-between are much less pronounced. The overall impact is more subdued and refined. Although it’s far from matching the subtle quality Europeans do so well, it’s headed in that direction.

The model I tested was the uplevel GTP, which has a supercharged 3.8 liter V6. Although the 3800 has been around for eons now, new supercharging accounts for 20 more ponies in this 2004 Grand Prix GTP, bringing the total to an impressive 260 with 280 pound feet of torque. There’s nothing mediocre about that, especially in this price range.

Pontiac estimates 0-60 in a little over 6.5 seconds with the 4-speed electronic transmission. Electronic throttle control (a.k.a. drive by wire) is also new this year, which means much smoother acceleration on hard takeoffs. Even though the Grand Prix is front-wheel-drive, the front end remains calm and steady under this kind of acceleration.

GM also boasts a “next-generation WideTrack Handling System” on this Grand Prix. Components include refinements to suspension, chassis and steering, all aimed at making this car better in the corners while maintaining comfort in the ride. Again, it’s not exactly up there with the finest sports sedans, but there’s no question it’s a more confident handler.

The Grand Prix also offers rather unique (for a sedan) versatility in a front passenger seat and backseat that fold flat to create 57 cubic feet of cargo space and a configuration that will carry a kayak. This roomy feature is super-easily accessible via a low-liftover trunk and rear doors that swing out almost 90 degrees.

The Bad News
Although this Grand Prix is a far finer looking car than its predecessor, the design is still too overstated for my taste. It is unmistakably American from its Pontiac grille to the rear spoiler, and that will suit some people just fine. Those who favor some familiarity will like it especially.

Safetywise, there are frontal airbags for front passengers and an optional head-protection air bag for front and rear passengers. There are no side-impact air bags, however, which troubles me.

The other thing that troubles me is the backseat. I like the idea of the flat-floor, fold-down convenience for hauling stuff. But to accomplish this, the rear seat is low and pretty flat itself. It’s not very comfortable, and small children will hardly be able to peer out.

Gas mileage
EPA rated at 18 mpg city/27 highway

Price
Manufacturer’s base, $25,860;
Price as tested, $30,370

Is it worth it?
I am so pleased to see the Pontiac Grand Prix reclaim some of its former glory. It’s heartening to see GM wake up to the possibilities here and invest in raising the bar. That doesn’t mean this GTP is ready to take on the big-ticket big-leaguers; it does mean it’s a star in its class. It comes with solid performance and a long list of luxuries like heated leather seats, OnStar security and XM satellite radio, all for $30,000 and change. GM has advanced this car’s status significantly with this model. Most significantly, they’ve done it without advancing prices significantly.

Beth Stein is a life-long car buff and free-lance journalist living in Nashville. She has reviewed new vehicles in print for 12 years as a weekly columnist for Nashville's daily newspapers and on television for Road Test Magazine and Motor Trend Television. Currently, her reviews appear nationally on Car And Driver Television.