2005 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP
Pros:
Acceleration, comfort, reliability, front-seat comfort
Cons:
Interior materials, Monsoon sound system
The Bottom Line:
GM is moving in the right direction with this model as compared to models of years past. I am satisfied with my purchase.
|
|
Overall Rating:
|
 |
|
Author's Review
The 2005 Grand Prix GTP is essentially the new body style built on the foundation of the last generation Grand Prix. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as the last generation had a lot of things going for it. Comfort, room, power, and reliability. This current style has all of that, with some more refinement.
The standard 260hp 6-cylinder returns a satisfying rumble and accelerates the vehicle easily in any situation. Merging onto highway traffic is a breeze, with plenty of power on tap when you need it. The engine never sounds strained, although the 4-speed automatic is a bit dated compared to competitors 5-speeds. Cabin noise is respectably moderate.
The vehicle feels at home around town and on the highway, although it can be a bit floaty as compared to completely new models with more refined suspensions. Think traditional "American" comfort rather than "European" tautness.
The interior is a mix of good and bad. The front seats are firm, yet comfortable, with very good side bolster support. Rear room is adequate, but the seats are a bit low to the ground to accommodate the sloping roofline. Leg room up front is good, but limited in the back if the front seats are not pulled forward a bit.
Controls are easy to read and intuitive. Red displays at night are very legible and add to the sporty image Pontiac likes to convey. Interior materials are a mix of softly padded to "plastic fantastic", Rubbermaid-like hardness.
The optional Monsoon sound system with XM Radio and 6-disc CD changer is adequate, but not worth the price. It delivers a constant, speaker hiss that is noticeable anytime you're driving. GM says its normal for this system and not the fault of a loose wire. I've been in other Grand Prix's and they make the same sound.
Trunk space is good, especially with the fold down rear seats and a lie-flat front passenger seat for accommodating long objects.
Reliability has been good, my only problems being a slight leak through the OnStar antenna (repaired in 1-day under warranty) and headlamps that were delaminating (also repaired under warranty). Mechanically there have been zero problems.
When compared against other 2005 models, the Grand Prix GTP is competitively priced and feature packed.
CarsBelowInvoic e
