For immediate release
PONTIAC G8 & G8 GXP
New for 2009




G8 GXP with 6.2L V-8 rated at more than 400 hp (300 kW) – late availability
Four new exterior colors: Maverick Silver Metallic, Sport Red Metallic, Stryker Blue Metallic and
Pacific Slate Metallic
XM Satellite Radio standard on all models
Bluetooth connectivity (late availability)
Model Lineup
G8
G8 GT
G8 GXP
Key
Standard
Optional
Not Available
3.6L V-6
with VVT
s
–
–
Engines
6.0L V-8
with AFM
–
s
–
6.2L V-8
–
–
s
5L40 5-spd.
auto.
s
–
–
Transmissions
6L80 6-spd. TR6060 6auto.
spd. man.
–
–
s
–
s
o
s
o
–
NEW GXP ENHANCES THE PERFORMANCE QUOTIENT OF THE ’09 PONTIAC G8
LINEUP
With the excellent handling traits of rear-wheel drive, the refined ride attributes of a fourwheel independent suspension and the exhilaration of available V-8 engine power, the
Pontiac G8 lineup delivers the type of crisp driving experience typically found in more
expensive performance sedans.
Introduced for the ’08 model year, the G8 lineup’s performance range expands in 2009
with the track-tuned GXP model. Motivated by a 6.2L LS3 V-8 that makes more than 400
horsepower (300 kW) and imbued with razor-sharp ride and handling traits, the GXP is
the ultimate expression of Pontiac style and performance.
“The addition of the G8 GXP to the lineup proves Pontiac has never been more serious
about the business of performance,” said Susan Docherty, vice president of BuickPontiac-GMC. “More than just raw power, the GXP delivers the sophisticated yet exciting
driving experience that enthusiasts expect in a car costing far more.”
As the G8 joined Pontiac’s lineup midway through the ’08 model year, changes across
the lineup are few but bring more standard technology to the table. They include XM
Satellite Radio and Bluetooth capability on all models. Available later in the model year,
Bluetooth capability is intergrated into the G8’s standard OnStar system,enabling handsfree phone calls for safer, more convenient connections.
Additionally, four new colors are added to the G8’s exterior palette: Maverick Silver
Metallic, Sport Red Metallic, Stryker Blue Metallic and Pacific Slate Metallic. (Stealth
Blue Metallic and Ignition Orange Metallic are discontinued.)
G8 lineup
G8 is the first North American application of GM’s new global rear-wheel-drive
architecture. The 2009 lineup comprises three models: G8, G8 GT and the new G8
GXP. Each delivers a broad range of standard performance, convenience and safety
features, including:

Four-wheel independent suspension

Four-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS and traction control

StabiliTrak electronic stability control system

Seat-mounted thorax air bags and dual-stage frontal air bags for front
passengers, with automatic passenger sensing system

Roof rail side-impact air bags for both seating rows

OnStar

XM Satellite Radio

Power-adjustable front seats

Fog lamps

Polished stainless steel exhaust tips

Low-profile rear lip spoiler
A sport package is available for G8 GT models; it adds features such as 19-inch
aluminum wheels and performance tires; a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and
alloy pedals.
The G8’s powertrains consist of a responsive V-6 engine in the base model and a 361horsepower (268 kW) 6.0L V-8 engine for the GT. The new GXP packs a 6.2L V-8 that
tops 400 horsepower (300 kW).
G8 GXP details
The G8 GXP takes the G8’s responsive driving experience, refined passenger
environment and aggressive good looks to a new level, with distinctive design cues,
unique interior elements and a stirring driving experience. It is powered by a 6.2L V-8
(LS3) that produces an estimated 402 horsepower (300 kW)* and 402 lb.-ft. of torque
(546 Nm)*. SAE-certified numbers will be announced later; please check media.gm.com
for updates.
A Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic is standard with the LS3 engine, and a sixspeed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission is available. Both are engineered for
robust, high-performance operation.
A 3.27 final drive ratio comes with automatic-equipped GXPs and a 3.70 gear is
matched with the manual transmission. A limited-slip differential is standard. This
powertrain combination delivers 0-to-60 mph performance of about 4.7 seconds, and a
quarter-mile time of approximately 13.0 seconds at 108 mph.
The GXP’s ride and handling was developed and validated on racetracks and highways
around the world, including the famed Nürburgring racing circuit. It rewards the driver
with sharp, immediate responses, as well as a well-balanced road feel during spirited
driving.
A Brembo braking system matches the GXP’s boost in performance with an equivalent
increase in stopping power. The system includes 14-inch (355 mm) vented front and
12.76-inch (324 mm) rear disc rotors, with special quad-piston alloy calipers in front. The
alloy calipers on the rear brakes have single-piston actuation. The four-wheel disc brake
system includes standard anti-lock brakes and all-speed traction control.
The GXP rides on unique 19-inch polished aluminum wheels with a special machined
face. Performance-oriented summer P245/40R19 tires are standard, and a comparable
all-season tire is available. Combined with the suspension and steering enhancements,
this setup gives the GXP exceptional cornering grip.
G8 design
All G8 models share a progressive styling package highlighted by strong Pontiac design
cues, such as a dual-port grille, fog lamps, bold wheels and a confident, wheels-at-thecorners stance. The design accents the car’s performance lineage, with fenders that
flare over the wheels, seemingly hugging the wide tires and enhancing the sporty
stance.
Distinctive elements include hood scoops and front fender vents, as well as projectorbeam headlamps housed in crystal-clear lenses. At the rear, the taillamps feature bright
detail work surrounding the red lighting elements. G8 models have red taillamp lenses
and twin polished stainless steel exhaust outlets, while G8 GT models feature clear
taillamp lenses and quad polished stainless steel exhaust tips. All models have an
antenna mounted at the rear of the roof.
The G8 GXP has distinctive styling cues, including a unique front fascia with a lower
splitter and a unique rear fascia diffuser.
G8 interior
Designed to meld form and function with world-class fit and finish, the G8’s interior
delivers both comfort and convenience, packaged in a level of sophistication not often
found in its price range. A driver-oriented instrument cluster positions the gauges for
easy, direct line of sight; an electronic driver information center is located between the
large, round tachometer and speedometer.
Attention to detail includes easy-to-read instruments, selective use of satin and chrome
trim and rich-feeling, grained textures throughout. The instrument cluster glows with
crisp, white light on the primary instruments and Pontiac’s signature red lighting
illuminates the rest of the instrument panel cluster.
The seats offer firm support to hold occupants in place during aggressive cornering; all
seats were designed to deliver excellent comfort during long drives. Cloth seating
surfaces are standard, with heated leather seating available. G8 GT models also offer an
optional two-tone cloth or leather combination that pairs black with red inserts and colormatched instrument faces on certain exterior color combinations.
GXP models also offer two-tone leather upholstery in black and red, with GXP-logo
embroidery. The GXP interior also boasts alloy sport pedals as standard equipment.
G8 engines
The base G8 model receives a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing, rated at 256
horsepower (190 kW) and 248 lb.-ft of torque (335 Nm). Variable valve timing optimizes
the power and efficiency across the rpm range, giving the car the best performance at all
speeds.
The G8 GT is powered by a uniquely configured 6.0L small-block V-8, rated at 361
horsepower (268 kW) and 385 lb.-ft. of torque (520 Nm). It features GM’s Active Fuel
Management technology, which allows the engine to switch from V-8 power to fourcylinder operation during light-load driving conditions, enhancing fuel economy.
The GXP’s 6.2L LS3 engine is the newest member of GM’s small-block V-8 family. It
features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block, high-flow, L92-style cylinder heads; largerdiameter pistons; unique camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset
intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; and high-flow fuel injectors.
The LS3 engine has an aluminum cylinder block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners.
Larger bores help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement. The block casting also features
revisions and machining in the bulkheads to enhance its strength and improve bay-tobay breathing. New pistons were designed for high-rpm performance.
High-flow cylinder heads aid engine breathing and are based on the large port and valve
design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L76 engines. The larger-capacity,
straighter intake port-design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber, an effect
augmented by large valves, measuring 2.16 inches (55 mm) on the intake side and 1.59
inches (40.4 mm) on the exhaust side.
Transmission choices
The base G8’s 3.6L V-6 engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with
Driver Shift Control, offering a choice of balanced shift points, a performance-oriented
Sport Mode or full manual control. This combination helps give the car solid fuel
economy, with an EPA-rated highway rating of 25 mpg.
The GT and GXP’s standard Hydra-Matic six-speed 6L80 automatic transmission is
technologically advanced and robust. It uses a clutch-to-clutch operation and an
integrated 32-bit transmission controller to deliver smooth and precise shifts. The sixspeed has a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a “steep” first-gear. The result is
strong launch acceleration along with “tall” overdrive ratios that lower engine rpms for
better fuel economy and reduced noise. The 6L80 also features Driver Shift Control for
increased driver control.
A six-speed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission is optional on the GXP. This nextgeneration manual smoothly transfers the engine’s power and torque to the rear wheels
with a reduction in shift throw. The transmission features a host of refinements including
premium gear synchronizers; stronger gears, housing, and bell housing; a single-piece
counter shaft; and machined gear teeth.
A limited-slip rear differential is standard with GT and GXP models.
G8 architecture
Built on GM’s global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the G8 is designed to deliver worldclass levels of strength and refinement, along with crisp driving dynamics. Among the
architecture’s design attributes is a layout that promotes a nearly 50/50 front-to-rear
weight balance ratio, thanks to design features that include a steering rack mounted
ahead of the front axle, engines mounted low and rearward in the front chassis cradle
and a trunk-mounted battery.
GM’s rear-drive architecture also has an exceptionally strong unitized chassis/body
structure, including advanced-strength steel used in more than 80 percent of its
construction. This strong foundation enables several factors than benefit the G8’s driving
experience, including smoother, more solid ride characteristics and more precise
suspension tuning, as the stiffer structure allows engineers to tune the suspension
without having to account for chassis flex.
The stiff structure also enhances safety, as it helps absorb crash energy through a
multiple load path strategy that includes optimized front-end and rear-end deformation
zones. (See safety section below.)
Responsive suspension systems
A unique, four-wheel independent, performance-tuned suspension system is integrated
with the G8’s structure, and is the result of eight years of development. It uses the
strength of the body structure to enhance the driving experience through optimized
steering, handling and driving control.
The G8 rides on a long, 114.8-inch (2,915 mm) wheelbase, with the wheels set wide on
62.7-inch (1,592 mm) front and 63.3-inch (1,608 mm) rear tracks. The front suspension
features a multi-link, MacPherson strut design that incorporates a direct-acting stabilizer
bar, while the rear suspension uses a four-link independent design, with progressive-rate
coil springs over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar.
The front suspension uses a hydraulically damped bushing on the forward end of the
tension link for improved ride isolation. The lateral link features a rubber spherical joint
that enhances lateral stiffness. Camber, caster and toe are fully adjustable.
With the rear suspension, a high degree of lateral stiffness is achieved with the use of
two lateral ball joints per side. A rubber-damped suspension frame further isolates the
body structure from noise, vibration and road harshness.
The G8 sedan and GT models use the same FE2 suspension setup, balancing crisp
responsiveness with a compliant ride that is suitable for everyday driving. The GXP
move up to a track-tuned FE3 suspension designed to further enhance the car’s
cornering potential.
The steering rack is mounted forward of the front axle centerline – with dual lower links
and individual ball joints at the outer ends – which enhances the balanced feel of the car
while also contributing to a more direct steering feel. Steering rates are tuned specifically
for each model, with the GXP’s steering tuned for immediate response with increased
driver feedback. All G8 models have a 37.4-foot (11.4-meter) turning circle.
Brake systems
A four-wheel disc brake system includes standard anti-lock and all-speed traction control
features and is partnered with standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.
Both the base and GT models feature vented front and rear disc rotors, with twin-piston
alloy calipers in front; the rear brakes feature alloy calipers with single-piston actuation.
The brakes are approximately one-inch larger on the higher-performance GT model.
The high-performance GXP receives a Brembo braking system that includes 14-inch
(355 mm) vented front and 12.76-inch (324 mm) rear disc rotors, with special quadpiston alloy calipers in front.
Safety
Safety was one of the foremost goals in the design of the G8’s architecture. It combines
a sturdy, crash-absorbing body structure and state-of-the-art passenger protection
technology. Examples of these elements include:

Efficient, energy-absorbing front structure and a strong occupant safety cage

Six standard air bags, including dual-stage frontal air bags, side thorax air bags
for front-seat passengers and roof rail-mounted head curtain air bags for both
seating rows

Multiple air bag sensors: two electronic front sensors and two side-impact
sensors, all connected to a sensing diagnostic module

Front safety belts with load limiters and dual pretensioners

Ride-down steering column and breakaway pedal system

Four-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS

StabiliTrak electronic stability control system

All-speed traction control

Tire pressure monitoring system

OnStar (available Turn-by-Turn Navigation)

LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Top tethers for CHildren) for child safety
seats
###
Contact:
Jim Hopson
Pontiac Communications
Phone: 313-667-4124
E-mail: jim.hopson@gm.com
Vince Muniga
GM Product Communications
Phone: 586-575-1928
E-mail: vince.muniga@gm.com
Antonio Sanchez Jimenez
Gerente de Relaciones Públicas y Comunicación
General Motors de Mexico
Office: 011-5255-5901-3042
E-mail: angelantonio.sanchezjimenez@gm.com
SPECIFICATIONS
Overview
Models:
Body style / driveline:
Construction:
EPA vehicle class:
Manufacturing location:
Key competitors:
Pontiac G8, G8 GT and G8 GXP
5-passenger, front-engine, rear-drive sedan
unitized body frame, 1- and 2-sided galvanized steel
midsize sedan
Adelaide, Australia
Nissan Maxima, Dodge Charger
Engines
Application:
Type:
Displacement (cu in / cc):
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
Block material:
Cylinder head material:
Valvetrain:
Ignition system:
3.6L V-6 (LY7)
G8
3.6L V-6
217 / 3564
3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x
85.6
cast aluminum w/
cast-in-place iron
bore liners
aluminum
dual overhead
camshafts, 4 valves
per cylinder,
continuously
variable valve
timing
electronic individual
coil-on-plug;
individual cylinder
knock control and
extended-life
platinum-tipped
6.0L V-8 (L76)
G8 GT
6.0L V-8
364 / 5967
3.99 x 3.62 / 101.3 x
92
cast aluminum w/
cast-in-place iron
bore liners
aluminum
valve-in-head; 2
valves per cylinder;
roller lifters; Active
Fuel Management
6.2L V-8 (LS3)
G8 GXP
6.2L V-8
376 / 6162
4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x
92
cast aluminum w/
cast-in-place iron
bore liners
aluminum
valve-in-head; 2
valves per cylinder;
roller lifters
high-energy
distributorless
ignition; solid state
direct-fire ignition w/
coil near plug and
integrated ignition
high-energy
distributorless
ignition; solid state
direct-fire ignition w/
coil near plug and
integrated ignition
Fuel delivery:
Compression ratio:
Horsepower (hp / kW @
rpm):
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):
Recommended fuel:
Maximum engine speed
(rpm):
Emissions controls:
EPA estimated fuel
economy (city / hwy):
spark plugs
returnless, multiport fuel injection
10.2:1
256 / 190 @ 6300
rpm*
248 / 336 @ 2100
rpm*
returnless, multi-port
fuel injection
10.4:1
361 / 268 @ 5300*
regular unleaded
6900
regular unleaded
6000
returnless, multi-port
fuel injection
10.7:1
402 / 300 @ 6000
(est.)
402 / 546 @ 4400
(est. w/ auto. trans.)
400 / 546 @ 4400
(est. w/ man. trans.)
premium unleaded
6600
evaporative
system, single
close-coupled
catalytic converter,
equal-length
exhaust, single
underfloor catalytic
converter, positive
crankcase
ventilation, intake
and exhaust cam
phasers, electronic
throttle control
17 / 25
evaporative system,
close-coupled
catalytic converters,
positive crankcase
ventilation, electronic
throttle control
evaporative system,
close-coupled
catalytic converters,
positive crankcase
ventilation, electronic
throttle control
15 / 24
TBD
Hydra-Matic 5L40
5-spd automatic
Hydra-Matic 6L80 6speed automatic
TR6060 6-speed
manual
3.42
2.21
1.60
1.00
0.75
-3.02
2.92
4.03
2.36
1.53
1.15
0.85
0.67
3.06
2.92 (GT)
3.27 (GXP)
3.01
2.07
1.43
1.00
0.84
0.57
3.28
3.70 (GXP)
385 / 520 @ 4400*
Transmissions
Gear ratios (:1):
First:
Second:
Third:
Fourth:
Fifth:
Sixth:
Reverse:
Final drive ratio:
Chassis/Suspension
Front:
Steering type:
Steering ratio:
multi-link MacPherson strut; direct-acting stabilizer bar;
progressive-rate coil springs; fully adjustable camber, caster
and toe
four-link independent; progressive-rate coil springs over
shocks; stabilizer bar; fully adjustable camber and toe
variable-ratio rack-and-pinion
46-53 mm per revolution
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):
2.8
37.4 / 11.4
Rear:
Brakes
Type:
Rotor diameter, front (in / mm):
Rotor diameter, rear (in / mm):
four-wheel disc w/ ABS; ventilated front and rear rotors;
twin-piston front calipers (four-piston on GXP); single
piston alloy rear calipers
G8: 11.73 / 298
G8 GT: 12.64 / 321
G8 GXP: 14 / 355
G8: 11.89 / 302
Rotor thickness, front (in / mm):
Rotor thickness, rear (in / mm):
G8 GT: 12.76 / 324
G8 GXP: 12.76 / 324
G8: 1.18 / 30
G8 GT: 1.18 / 30
G8 GXP: 1.26 / 32
0.86 / 22 (all models)
Wheels/Tires
Wheel size and type:
Tires:
G8
18 x 8-inch painted
aluminum
P245/45R18 allseason (summer
tires opt.)
Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm):
Overall length (in / mm):
Overall width (in / mm):
Overall height (in / mm):
Track (in / mm):
Curb weight (lb / kg):
Interior
Seating capacity (front / rear):
Headroom (in / mm):
Legroom (in / mm):
Shoulder room (in / mm):
Hip room (in / mm):
Capacities
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L):
Cargo volume (cu ft / L):
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg):
Fuel tank (gal / L):
Engine oil (qt / L):
Cooling system (qt / L):
G8 GT
18 x 8-inch painted
aluminum (std); 19 x 8inch painted aluminum
(opt)
P245/45R18 summer
(std.); P245/45R18 allseason (opt);
P245/40R19 (opt)
G8 GXP
19 x 8-inch polished
aluminum with
machined face
P245/40R19 summer
(std.); P245/40R19
all-season (opt)
114.8 / 2915
196.1 / 4982
74.8 / 1899
57.7 / 1465
front: 62.7 / 1592
rear: 63.3 / 1608
Base: 3885 / 1762
GT: 3995 / 1812
GXP: 4050 / 1837
2/3
front: 38.7 / 989
rear: 38 / 965
front: 42.2 / 1071
rear: 39.4 / 1001
front: 59.1 / 1501
rear: 59.1 / 1500
front: 56.7 / 1439
rear: 58 / 1472
124.5 / 3528
17.5 / 496
2000 / 907 (G8 and G8 GT)
1000 / 454 (G8 GXP)
19.2 / 72.6
3.6L: 7.6 / 7.2
6.0L: 8.9 / 8.5
6.2L: 8.9 / 8.5
3.6L: 10.8 / 10.2
6.0L: 11.4 / 10.8
6.2L: 11.3 / 10.7
*Pending SAE certification.
Note: Information shown is current at time of publication. Please visit our GM Media web site at
http://media.gm.com for updates.