GM Canada annonces pricing of new G8 sedan

By Bruno Bouchard

Oshawa, Ontario (April 29, 2008) – A rear-wheel-drive Pontiac performance sedan will once again be seen on the streets of Canada. The all-new 2009 G8 arrives in Pontiac dealerships in June. The V-6-equipped G8 performance sedan has a starting MSRP of $31,995 and the V-8-powered G8 GT model starts at $36,995.

"Delivering driving character and performance typical of more expensive cars, the new Pontiac G8 will definitely punch above its weight," said Marc Comeau, vice president of sales, service and marketing for GM of Canada. "With its bold styling, dynamic design and sport-biased set-up, the G8 will be sure to put a smile on the face of driving enthusiasts."

The Pontiac G8 includes a long list of unexpected standard equipment in this segment, including: StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control, Driver Shift Control with sport mode, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, remote vehicle start, 6 airbags, power adjustable seats, MP3 input jack, OnStar and XM satellite radio.

One hot design…

The G8’s strong wheels-to-the-corners stance is highlighted with bold wheel flares and a rising beltline. It is designed with modern performance styling cues blended with a unique Pontiac attitude, thanks to cues like the inset dual port grille, twin hood scoops, projector head lamps, vented front fenders, 18-inch wheels, and a true duel exhaust system with chrome tips. As well, the G8 GT model sports crystal-clear rear lamp elements and chromed quad exhaust tips.

…Two hot powertrains

The G8 sedan comes equipped with a 3.6L DOHC V-6, generating 256 horsepower (190 kW) and 248 lb.-ft. of torque in a wide power band beginning at a very low 2,100 rpm. Linked to a five-speed Hydra-Matic 5L40E automatic transmission, the V-6-powered G8 is capable of zero-to-100 km/h times of approximately seven seconds.

The GT model ups the ante with the introduction of the 6.0L small-block V-8, with fuel-saving Active Fuel Management technology, producing 361 horsepower (268 kW) and 385 lb.-ft. of torque. Zero-to-100 km/h times of 5.3 seconds are possible with the six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80E automatic transmission linked to a standard limited-slip differential.