They seem to be all the rage lately..even with American cars like the Grand Prix GXP, Vette, Saturn Aura..etc. They're more fun to use too than the dildo in the middle shifter that theyre putting in the G8. Come to think of it, Pontiac punked out on using them on the G6 when the Aura and I believe the new Malibu both have them(same car as G6). What gives?

Go here for your paddles.

Unhappy people here please.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am so weary of trying to find new info among all the whiners and compainers that seem to hijack every thread. So please, will the 80% of the forum members that have nothing but bitches and complaints and rants about how they can't have this, that, another color, less/more chrome, or where the f00kin' gas filler door is located please post here. that way those of us that are just happy as hell that a car like this is now available don't have to look at 20 minuites of negative crap every time we log in.

Thank You.

oh please..I'm just making an observation..dont get your panties bunched. Its something that might be nice to have on the car.

Probably because alot of people feel more comfy with an island shifter. How many people drive with their hands at 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock as the shifters require. That position is pretty standard for optimum control for performance driving. But everyone likes to do the one hand just resting on the top. So they decided to do it on the island. It gives it a closer to manual feel.

They seem to be all the rage lately..even with American cars like the Grand Prix GXP, Vette, Saturn Aura..etc. They're more fun to use too than the dildo in the middle shifter that theyre putting in the G8. Come to think of it, Pontiac punked out on using them on the G6 when the Aura and I believe the new Malibu both have them(same car as G6). What gives?

Let's get the 6 speed manual in production first :p

I have paddle shifters in my CompG GTP. Truth be told I'd rather use the console shifter---it'd feel more like a true manual.

I have paddle shifters in my CompG GTP. Truth be told I'd rather use the console shifter---it'd feel more like a true manual.

Same here when I owned my 04 Comp G.

Pontiac doesn't make this car, Holden does. Give Pontiac a break. Give me the manual!

Go here for your paddles.

I am so weary of trying to find new info among all the whiners and compainers that seem to hijack every thread. So please, will the 80% of the forum members that have nothing but bitches and complaints and rants about how they can't have this, that, another color, less/more chrome, or where the f00kin' gas filler door is located please post here. that way those of us that are just happy as hell that a car like this is now available don't have to look at 20 minuites of negative crap every time we log in.

Thank You.

Sorry if some of the wishful thinking and questions disturb your quiet, complacent, cheery little world. There are many of us who are disappointed, after waiting for so long for a replacement for the unceremoniously dropped Bonneville, see in the G8 a stripped down travesty being foisted upon us. I have had a number of Pontiacs over the years (Phoenix, Sunbird (wife's only Pontiac), 6000STE, Bonneville SSE, Bonneville SSEi, Grand Prix GXP). Each time, prior to the Grand Prix, I felt I was moving up to a better, more modern car. After hearing about the nonexistent G8 for two years I finally got the Grand Prix GXP because my Bonnie was in need of replacement, not because I wanted to move down to a lesser car. From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

Then what are you doing here?

Sorry if some of the wishful thinking and questions disturb your quiet, complacent, cheery little world. There are many of us who are disappointed, after waiting for so long for a replacement for the unceremoniously dropped Bonneville, see in the G8 a stripped down travesty being foisted upon us. I have had a number of Pontiacs over the years (Phoenix, Sunbird (wife's only Pontiac), 6000STE, Bonneville SSE, Bonneville SSEi, Grand Prix GXP). Each time, prior to the Grand Prix, I felt I was moving up to a better, more modern car. After hearing about the nonexistent G8 for two years I finally got the Grand Prix GXP because my Bonnie was in need of replacement, not because I wanted to move down to a lesser car. From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

I'm sorry you are disappointed but I am of the exact opposite in opinion. The G8 is the first pontiac I have considered buying. My sister has a 2004 Grand Prix and it is a nice car, but not exactly what I am looking for. I have been looking for a car like this from some company for a long time. The other considerations I have had are the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS and BMW M5. The upside of the TL is the quality of the interior and the look of the exterior, the downside is the front wheel drive. The new CTS is simply awesome, but out of my price range. The BMW M5 has it all, but is way out of my price range. The G8 is 99% of what I have been looking for at a great price point for me.

My only disappointment is no navi. But I will get over it, it is just a frivolous option. HUD, Paddleshifters, XM Radio, and Navigation are not attributes that define the car.

I don't think there is anything glamorous about the pontiac name over the last decade. The interiors have been awful. Which is unfortunate because Pontiac used to be an awesome division at GM. Over the last few years Pontiac has begun to redeem itself. In my opinion, the G8 is going to be a quality car that will put Pontiac back up to the top of my list. I'm all for brand loyalty, but I will only buy a car from GM when it is objectively as good or better than the competition. In this case the G8 will deservedly get my sale.

I don't think the question is, "does the G8 deserve the pontiac name plate?" The question is "is the pontiac name plate good enough for the holden commodore?"

I hope Richard drives a G8 when they get here. From what he listed he has never driven a Pontiac r/w drive with LOTS of torque and H/P....The "G" should change his out look...Torque and r/w drive= fun with or with out paddles...bring on the stick,,,, :gears:

Alot of the stuff that isn't being offered in the G8 now is because of the fact there are differences in the Australian market and the US market. There are software changes, and regulations that exist that prevented the Aussie Navigation program from appearing in the G8. The same thing happened with the bluetooth. Some of this stuff will likely appear in a later model.

That said, some people can live without that stuff, and other people cannot. The thing is, all of that stuff won't come free. You're looking at CTS option pricing with alot of these doodads.

Sorry if some of the wishful thinking and questions disturb your quiet, complacent, cheery little world. There are many of us who are disappointed, after waiting for so long for a replacement for the unceremoniously dropped Bonneville, see in the G8 a stripped down travesty being foisted upon us. I have had a number of Pontiacs over the years (Phoenix, Sunbird (wife's only Pontiac), 6000STE, Bonneville SSE, Bonneville SSEi, Grand Prix GXP). Each time, prior to the Grand Prix, I felt I was moving up to a better, more modern car. After hearing about the nonexistent G8 for two years I finally got the Grand Prix GXP because my Bonnie was in need of replacement, not because I wanted to move down to a lesser car. From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.
Thank you for being sorry.

I have driven a 2K Bonneville SSEi for the last 5+ years & 91,000 miles. Best dam car I have ever owned, and I owned a 1965 Goat thru 1973. So for me to purchase a car to replace the SSEi I did a bit of comparison thinking. So, let's see here:

2000 SSEi: 2008 G8GT:

Powerful 3.8L SC V6 240HP FWD. // Powerful 6L V8 360+HP RWD
Nice gold leather interior. // Nicer black leather w/ heated seats.
8 speaker Bose weak, but OK sound // 230W Blaupunkt w/ 11 speakers, hoo ha!
ABS, traction control // ABS,trac control, stabilitrac, posi-t
4 speed auto tranny // 6 speed auto with sport shift
4 air bags // Six air bags incl/rear
Anti theft sys. // Anti theft w/immoblizer & PIN
Nav. TOM TOM 700 // On Star with verbal turn
17" wheels // 19" wheels
Single disk CD // 6 disk CD changer
Power outlets none // Power outlets 2
Heads up display // Horrors! N/A

Richard! Thank you so much for pointing out the error of my ways. I will cancel the 888
G8 GT that I have on order & due here in about 2 months.

Whew! I almost bought a stripped down travesty! I am shamed!

Calm down penguin, don't let'im get to ya. :)

Calm down penguin, don't let'im get to ya. :)
Golly Ram, I thought I was really nice and respectful.

We penguins are a bit sensitive I suppose because of those darn Polar bears.:wall:

:The_Villagers::The_Villagers:

Don't angry villagers like to eat penguins too? ^

hehe, sorry, i saw the villagers smily and couldn't help myself... hehe its a funny image.

Thank you for being sorry.

I have driven a 2K Bonneville SSEi for the last 5+ years & 91,000 miles. Best dam car I have ever owned, and I owned a 1965 Goat thru 1973. So for me to purchase a car to replace the SSEi I did a bit of comparison thinking. So, let's see here:

2000 SSEi: 2008 G8GT:

Powerful 3.8L SC V6 240HP FWD. // Powerful 6L V8 360+HP RWD
Nice gold leather interior. // Nicer black leather w/ heated seats.
8 speaker Bose weak, but OK sound // 230W Blaupunkt w/ 11 speakers, hoo ha!
ABS, traction control // ABS,trac control, stabilitrac, posi-t
4 speed auto tranny // 6 speed auto with sport shift
4 air bags // Six air bags incl/rear
Anti theft sys. // Anti theft w/immoblizer & PIN
Nav. TOM TOM 700 // On Star with verbal turn
17" wheels // 19" wheels
Single disk CD // 6 disk CD changer
Power outlets none // Power outlets 2
Heads up display // Horrors! N/A

Richard! Thank you so much for pointing out the error of my ways. I will cancel the 888
G8 GT that I have on order & due here in about 2 months.

Whew! I almost bought a stripped down travesty! I am shamed!

I have been driving (legally) Holden products for 48 years.

I have gone through "3 on the tree", 4 on the floor, column auto select, "island" auto, in-line 6, V6, V8, all sorts of fitout including knobs and whistles!

Now, I can afford a car as I want it and I could select a car with all the performance, driving aids and luxuries options possible without any
dramas!

But what do i look for in a car now? To be able to get into a car, turn it on, start it, see if all the redlights on the dash go out, select Drive and move off. I'd suggest this procedure represents 98% of my driving arrangements at the present.

Nice to have all the appointments you want in a car but some of it is never, ever fully used or ever used.

So seeking paddle shifts and all that would be nice but it would be interesting to get honest responses as to how often it is fully used!

Mike

So seeking paddle shifts and all that would be nice but it would be interesting to get honest responses as to how often it is fully used!

Mike

My 04 compg had the paddle shifters and when I was in the mood for some fun/aggressive (2-3 times a week) driving I dropped it into M. For me the paddles where ackward to use when turning or trying to control torque steer. Since I was/am use to a manual I always find my right hand on the gear knob and with the paddles on steering wheel was not natural for me. I think I would have used the paddles more if the response time from the time the paddle was engaged until the tranny shifted was faster.
Of course this does not mean I am glad they are not offering it.

Heads up display // Horrors! N/A


Shouldnt you have posted this in the "UNHAPPY SECTION":slap:

Alot of the stuff that isn't being offered in the G8 now is because of the fact there are differences in the Australian market and the US market. There are software changes, and regulations that exist that prevented the Aussie Navigation program from appearing in the G8. The same thing happened with the bluetooth. Some of this stuff will likely appear in a later model.



According to DY, that is not the case. Here is his response to my question: "It was not the unit or software. It was more the center stack and viewing angles." Link: http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9293#post9293

I only mention this because it will require a redesign of the dash and not just a software change (unfortunately) which could extend the time before a change is made. It is disappointing that more communication did not occur earlier in the design phase. I do believe if there is a 3rd gen (GTO, G8,etc.) designed by Holden for the US market they will have the kinks worked out. They are getting better and better.

Chip

:The_Villagers::The_Villagers:

Don't angry villagers like to eat penguins too? ^

hehe, sorry, i saw the villagers smily and couldn't help myself... hehe its a funny image.
Roast penguin is, in fact, tough, greasy, and tastes like an old rubber boot. Didn't help Uncle Fred though. He bought the farm farm just before Thanksgiving. :cartman:

:(Shouldnt you have posted this in the "UNHAPPY SECTION":slap:
You know Vert, I should have. Probably won't miss the HUD tho'. I could'nt see it on the 2 sunny days we had in Seattle last year.:(

Then what are you doing here?


Seriously. Whats there to be dissappointed about when the "Go" wheels are actually in the proper place. Have fun with your wifes Torque steer monster.

I believe the G8 will be an incredible deal for the performance that you get, and is priced as such. If you want something with more gizmos and options and pay out the ass for them then go buy a CTS. I believe a fully loaded V6 model is around $45,000?

Let's get the 6 speed manual in production first :p

+1.

From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

No attempt at qualifying said opinion? In all actuality, the only Pontiac that is capable of holding a candle to the G8 in performance, quality and design is the 2004-2006 GTO. All the Pontiac sedans you've owned are crap by comparison. However, you may be right about one thing - the G8 doesn't deserve to be burdened much like the GTO was, by carrying the Pontiac name and the associated negative stigma created by the vehicles you've owned over the years.

Seriously. Whats there to be dissappointed about when the "Go" wheels are actually in the proper place. Have fun with your wifes Torque steer monster.

I believe the G8 will be an incredible deal for the performance that you get, and is priced as such. If you want something with more gizmos and options and pay out the ass for them then go buy a CTS. I believe a fully loaded V6 model is around $45,000?
Reasonably equipped with the DI and AWD can and do run $45000 (they are all V6's) Skip the luxo on top of luxo packages. Fully, fully equipped MSRP is above $53,000 (checked again yesterday at "the world's oldest Cadillac dealer", no dealer markup , one on the lot, MSRP $53k+)
+1.



No attempt at qualifying said opinion? In all actuality, the only Pontiac that is capable of holding a candle to the G8 in performance, quality and design is the 2004-2006 GTO. All the Pontiac sedans you've owned are crap by comparison. However, you may be right about one thing - the G8 doesn't deserve to be burdened much like the GTO was, by carrying the Pontiac name and the associated negative stigma created by the vehicles you've owned over the years.
The Pontiac sedans I have owned (and do own) were as good or better than teh segment leaders at the time of their production. I'll skip teh Firebird, since once we had a family it became not a family car, but there is a 2 door to start:

1979 Bonneville 2 door, 301, 4bbl, posi
1984 6000STE, little 3.1 V6, but rock solid, fast for its time, throaty European exhaust, digital dashboard, self level rear suspension with air compressor
1990 Bonnie SSE, 3800 engine, best V6 GM ever built, soft leather, loaded, 150,000 miles hated to see it go.
1997 GPGTP more fun to drive than my '03 due to the factory performance shift kit (can install in 03, dash light is there) coupe styling, about 130k miles until a bus took it out
2003 GPGTP current ride, still faster than a Jag X-type. )-60, 6.8 box stock, .9g (lost a little with last tire downgrade) so now its paid for and the last gen GP is not as exciting, even though I could get 303 hp V8.

What I want now is what Pontiac has for me, the G8. And at only about $3k more than a fully optioned G6GXP teh extra over 100 hp is a bargain. We are looking at not only the G8, but also Jag XKF, and Caddy CTS (both used for price) but also A4, Accord, Saab 9-3 and G6.

BTW, the 9-3 is available with steering wheel mounted shift, and it will be standard on the CTS-V with auto.

I just drove a new 335I 1700 miles through Deals Gap and the rest of 129 and if the G8 came with paddles and rev matching like the 335I I would have the Auto trans for sure. It gives you the feel of a manual with it's quick up shifts and quick rev matching down shifts BUT if you get sick of it you shove the center shifter to auto and it does it for you!

That's the best of both worlds to me...:D

Oh and I AM waiting for the manual.:punch:

I just drove a new 335I 1700 miles through Deals Gap and the rest of 129 and if the G8 came with paddles and rev matching like the 335I I would have the Auto trans for sure. It gives you the feel of a manual with it's quick up shifts and quick rev matching down shifts BUT if you get sick of it you shove the center shifter to auto and it does it for you!

That's the best of both worlds to me...:D

Oh and I AM waiting for the manual.:punch:

I believe I read that the G8 does have rev-matching on the downshift.

Chip

Much rather have the tap shift than the paddle shift any day. If you're really into doing your own shifting, hold off for the m6 which will be offered in MY'09 then you can shift to your hearts content!

I've got an A6 behind an L98 Holden down here in Oz...

the manual shift thing is a complete waste of time. Tap UP or DOWN... then wait 2 seconds. Seriously wtf?

boring as bat ****.

Seriously if you want to shift, buy a stick. the A6 is extremely disappointing (vs a manual).

I've got an A6 behind an L98 Holden down here in Oz...

the manual shift thing is a complete waste of time. Tap UP or DOWN... then wait 2 seconds. Seriously wtf?

boring as bat ****.

Seriously if you want to shift, buy a stick. the A6 is extremely disappointing (vs a manual).

Have you had your transmission tuned? If not, I would not rule out the potential of the 6L80E just yet.

I've got an A6 behind an L98 Holden down here in Oz...

the manual shift thing is a complete waste of time. Tap UP or DOWN... then wait 2 seconds. Seriously wtf?

boring as bat ****.

Seriously if you want to shift, buy a stick. the A6 is extremely disappointing (vs a manual).

What Model Year is yours?
I have a 2007 A6 ( LS2 ) and it is not immediate -
but not usually ** THAT ** slow.....

- Ray
Hoping for the 2008 G8 GT to better.....

It's a 2008 (10/07 build)

Only tweaked the torque management, we havent tuned the TUP and TDWN tables yet. To be fair I hope it gets much better. It is seriously woeful.

It's a 2008 (10/07 build)

Only tweaked the torque management, we havent tuned the TUP and TDWN tables yet. To be fair I hope it gets much better. It is seriously woeful.

Harumph...
Thanks,
- Ray
Still hopeful, but.....

It's my wifes car, and i only took it to the track to run a number, as close to stock as possible. So i didnt bother tuning the tiptronic stuff. I just put in "D" for DRAG!

It's my wifes car, and i only took it to the track to run a number, as close to stock as possible. So i didnt bother tuning the tiptronic stuff. I just put in "D" for DRAG!

So what did you run at the track?

So what did you run at the track?

It's the WM Caprice, 1920kg race weight (4200lbs)

It ran 13.2@105mph (after OTR and tune). Everything else 100% stocker, including tyres. Not too bad, we can probably do a little better, would be good to get that huge barge into the 12's "stock"

It's the WM Caprice, 1920kg race weight (4200lbs)

It ran 13.2@105mph (after OTR and tune). Everything else 100% stocker, including tyres. Not too bad, we can probably do a little better, would be good to get that huge barge into the 12's "stock"

Which motor is that? Oh I missed it. It is a L98.

The real answer to the original question was that Holden was far along in the Commodore development when Pontiac joined the program. We asked for paddle shifters and were told the console shifter was already designed/released and it would entail too much work to start over. Also, not all GM management were sold on the paddle shift concept, so there weren't people in high places to overturn Holden's position.

Paddle shifters and shifting manually with an auto is about useless IMO. The important thing is we are getting a 6 spd auto tranny. Put it in Drive and go!

The VZ SV6 had paddle shifters and everyone moaned and said the tiptronic style shifter (ala falcon etc) is sooo much better. So, Holden went that way. Now, of course.......

Go here for your paddles.

Unhappy people here please.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am so weary of trying to find new info among all the whiners and compainers that seem to hijack every thread. So please, will the 80% of the forum members that have nothing but bitches and complaints and rants about how they can't have this, that, another color, less/more chrome, or where the f00kin' gas filler door is located please post here. that way those of us that are just happy as hell that a car like this is now available don't have to look at 20 minuites of negative crap every time we log in.

Thank You.

ROFL!!!

Paddle shifters and shifting manually with an auto is about useless IMO. The important thing is we are getting a 6 spd auto tranny. Put it in Drive and go!

I agree that the fact that G8 GTs will have a reasonably modern, 6 speed automatic is an “important thing”.

You may well never use the manual shift capability. I have no problem with that.

[[ And some here strongly prefer a true (with a clutch) manual trans. I have no problem with that (them) either. ]]

I do use manumatic mode in my automatic equipped Corvette. ( 6L80 = very similar in most respects to the auto trans in the G8. )

And if / when I actually wanted to record absolute, ultimate 0 – 60 or quarter mile times, I would leave my automatic in “full auto.” mode. At WOT, this trans does a very good job of snapping off quick upshifts, right at the redline, every time.

But – there are a few things manual mode does that I find very useful in some of my driving. I drive my Corvette in that mode nearly 100% of the time. And I have driven each of my last 4 Sport Sedans ( each with similar manumatic capability ) in manual mode almost all the time.

After over 20,000 miles in my Corvette A6, here is what I think is useful about manual mode – called DSC or Driver Shift Control by GM:

A few things that this manumatic \ paddle shift does that most other, ‘regular’ automatics cannot do:

1 – You can pick and hold second gear. For example, I can lock my trans. in second gear, and allow it to \ force it to stay there. Since second in the C6 A6 will cover from 0 mph to well over any US speed limit (at least 80 - again, this is in second gear), regardless of throttle position, rpm or vehicle speed.

I have used this ‘lock in second’ – or even ‘lock in third’ feature often during my evening commute out of Mid-Town Atlanta in previous sedans I have driven with this feature. No shifting. Plenty of torque to accelerate, since with 5 or 6 lanes of stop / start / slow traffic, not much acceleration is required – or possible. No shifts.

2 – I can force an upshift at less than max. RPM when accelerating at any throttle opening - even at (or close to) WOT.

I find that many times I enjoy the thrust of full throttle, but choose to shift well before max. RPM / red line, as I am just enjoying myself, not racing. (And for the few times when I am REALLY in a hurry, and want max. RPM shifts, I would leave it in ‘S’, with the Paddles not activated. The computer and trans. work together very well under these circumstances to provide a very quick, but not brutal or harsh shift – at exactly the right time.)

3 – On the highway, at typical freeway speeds of 65 – 80, I can ‘lock’ the trans in fourth gear, or fifth or sixth – depending on conditions & my mood. Thus, regardless of throttle position, it will not downshift & will not upshift. I will certainly see TCC unlock / lock if I am aggressive with the throttle, but it will not downshift to a lower gear. I find this particularly useful if I am awaiting a break or hole in traffic to safely execute a pass – or similar maneuver. Thus there is no need to downshift one or 2 gears ( automatically or manually ) when the opportunity arrives. Full thrust is immediately available when I hit the throttle.

Also: This A6 and attendant software include both a “tighter” torque converter than I am used to, and a much more aggressive TCC lockup algorithm. This does result in somewhat less ‘cushioning’ effect than I am used to – but I suspect that it results in longer service life ( less heat generated by torque converter ‘slip’ ) and an improvement in fuel economy. And it also ( likely by design ) results in a more nearly ‘manual trans. – like’ driving experience, when in any selected gear.

4 – Activating the paddles, I can also hold a higher gear ( fourth for example ) at speeds where the automatic ( left to its own decision making ) would generally downshift one or 2 gears even at light throttle or coasting. In traffic, moving slowly, varying speed somewhat, but not stop and go, this strategy sometimes works very well for me. [ The 2007 owner’s manual on page 2-29 says that the minimum road speed for an upshift to fourth is 22. And to fifth is 28. Actual experience bears out these numbers. Sounds reasonable to me, again when traffic situations mean only very light acceleration is possible anyway . . ]

5 – I can command a downshift without using the accelerator. If I know, for example, that I am about to turn a corner, and I will want second or third gear on exit, I can downshift ( while braking & off the throttle ) when I want – and again, it will not execute a further downshift in the corner – and it will be in the gear I want when I roll back into the throttle on corner exit. Smooth.

Again, I am not suggesting that these specific attributes mean anything to you, or to those who prefer a manual trans. – just that they are attributes, over and above those of a ‘regular’ \ non-manumatc trans., that mean a lot, to me. I find this additional measure of control to increase my driving enjoyment.

Just my .02 gallons worth of opinion. . .
- Ray
YMMV

Nice write up on the pros on the manumatic rayainsw. I used it on my CompG to hold the gear to keep motor in the powerband for good acceleration.

Paddle shifters and shifting manually with an auto is about useless IMO. The important thing is we are getting a 6 spd auto tranny. Put it in Drive and go!

Sorry, did not mean to come across as harsh. Good points mentioned in the writeup. I was just so glad to see Corvette go from a 4spd auto to a 6 spd auto. I played with the paddles a little, but did not bond with it and preferred to put it in Sport where the shifts were a little better and just drive it. I love to take my Z06 out and really row the gears using a manual tranny. No offense intended, autos have many uses too.

Probably because alot of people feel more comfy with an island shifter. How many people drive with their hands at 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock as the shifters require. That position is pretty standard for optimum control for performance driving. But everyone likes to do the one hand just resting on the top. So they decided to do it on the island. It gives it a closer to manual feel.

Actually, drivers ed tells you ten 'n two. Performance driving says 9 and three. It gives more rotation without having to move your hands.

Alot of the stuff that isn't being offered in the G8 now is because of the fact there are differences in the Australian market and the US market. There are software changes, and regulations that exist that prevented the Aussie Navigation program from appearing in the G8. The same thing happened with the bluetooth. Some of this stuff will likely appear in a later model.

That said, some people can live without that stuff, and other people cannot. The thing is, all of that stuff won't come free. You're looking at CTS option pricing with alot of these doodads.

And vise versa from what I've heard. The CTS will not get nav. in Oz.

Actually, drivers ed tells you ten 'n two. Performance driving says 9 and three. It gives more rotation without having to move your hands.

My wife’s little sister (22 year old) recently told me that in driver’s ed they taught her to keep her hands at about 4 & 8 because it minimizes airbag deployment related injuries. I think it probably increases airbag deployments, but not in a way that an ambulance chaser could get his teeth into.

I definitely prefer the console shifter over paddles, guess im just old fashioned.

My wife’s little sister (22 year old) recently told me that in driver’s ed they taught her to keep her hands at about 4 & 8 because it minimizes airbag deployment related injuries. I think it probably increases airbag deployments, but not in a way that an ambulance chaser could get his teeth into.

Very interesting. I suppose this makes sense in a biomechanics-airbag sort of way. I've never tried this, I may later today (if I remember) as it seems that comming from more of the bottom of the wheel, well, it just seems as if it would be really strange to me. It seems like you'd be pushing up, or pulling down with a chance of hitting your legs. Meh, I'll try it later.

I definitely prefer the console shifter over paddles, guess im just old fashioned.

I thought I was that way too. But I found out I actually like the steering wheel mounted. It's very convenient.

Sorry if some of the wishful thinking and questions disturb your quiet, complacent, cheery little world. There are many of us who are disappointed, after waiting for so long for a replacement for the unceremoniously dropped Bonneville, see in the G8 a stripped down travesty being foisted upon us. I have had a number of Pontiacs over the years (Phoenix, Sunbird (wife's only Pontiac), 6000STE, Bonneville SSE, Bonneville SSEi, Grand Prix GXP). Each time, prior to the Grand Prix, I felt I was moving up to a better, more modern car. After hearing about the nonexistent G8 for two years I finally got the Grand Prix GXP because my Bonnie was in need of replacement, not because I wanted to move down to a lesser car. From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

Ha your hilarious! I have owned many pontiacs. The latest an 06 GTO. But I've had bonnie's and gp's before as well. I am actually going to get an older gp for a dd to work.

But this car is lightyears ahead of any other GM platform on the market. Holden cars have a build quality a Pontiac has NEVER touched. This was evident in the GTO. The car was put together better than any f body ever was. So what if people didn't like the styling. It was an exceptionally well built car.

This is a global world now. GM is making this car and calling it a Pontiac. Last I heard GM owns the tradmark called Pontiac so therefore it is a Pontiac. I don't hear you bitching about the GP (hello rebaged chevy, buick anyone?) or the Bonnie which again rolled of an assembly line with other models. What difference does it make this one rolls off an assembly line with Holdens. Did you know that during GTO production more GTO's were produced than Monaro's? Wouldn't that mean they were made in a pontiac plant?


And back to the point. Paddle shifters are not all thier cracked up to be. As far as I know the Vett is the only car that offers an auto with paddle shifters and a stick. I think it's a waste of time. If your gonna shift all the time get a stick. If you rarley shift but like to do so just use the regular auto shifter.

Personally, paddle shifters? I don't get it. Just like push botton start, I don't get it. As others have said, they don't make the car any better, nor, IMO, any easier.
I guess if all those who wanted all the bling, got their way, they would be bitchin about the cost being + $30k.

2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

Oh please...sure the G8 has a few things that could be better...but its so far ahead of the previous GM stuff. I love my GTP, but G8 blows it away...

the GP (hello rebaged chevy, buick anyone?)
BTW the GP was typically first. On the 04 Supercharged W-bodies, GP got the Gen V SC and better options. The GP GXP got the V8 first.

Bottom line though.. G8 is a big step up if you are looking for Driving Excitement (going by the fact it should drive as well or better than the 04-06 GTO, which IMHO drove wonderfully)

As far as I know the Vett is the only car that offers an auto with paddle shifters and a stick.

Infinity offers paddles/auto or 6 speed manual tranny in the G35 and G37.

Infinity offers paddles/auto or 6 speed manual tranny in the G35 and G37.

Also with paddles & stick arrangement:

VW GTI (DSG, not true auto)
BMW 135i / 335i (ZF Steptronic auto)
Mitsubishi EVO X (another automated manual similar to DSG)

When you hold the transmission in 2nd or 3rd gear using paddle shifters, is there a point where the rev limiter forces the shift up or down?

When you hold the transmission in 2nd or 3rd gear using paddle shifters, is there a point where the rev limiter forces the shift up or down?

In my Corvette ( since the G8 does not have this feature, I presume that’s what you are referring to – though it appears the G8 will perform roughly the same – except that the shift lever will be the ‘activating mechanism’ ) when using the paddles, the trans. ( 6L80, as in the G8 GT ) will not upshift. It will bounce off the rev limiter.

It will downshift as you slow – though not really as a result of the rev limiter. My Corvette will downshift only to Second Gear – not all the way to First. ( The G8 GT, according to the “Getting To Know Your G8” pamphlet, the G8 will downshift all the way to First Gear, as you slow. My Corvette drops from Third to Second Gear when speed drops below 9 MPH. )

There may be other differences – that I will discover when I
( finally ) drive one . . .
Cheers,
- Ray
Eager to experience the ‘rev match one downshift’ as well . . .

Paddle shift is a wank (a toss for our Yank cousins!!).
Not right for this sort of car.
This is a 4 door family sedan with rear wheel drive and a front engined V8. Find another one in the world with this performance for these dollars. I won't hold my breath. Paddles are for Ferrari's, Lambo's, M3's and other exotic sports cars that have a three quarter turn lock to lock. Not this.

Go here for your paddles.

Unhappy people here please.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am so weary of trying to find new info among all the whiners and compainers that seem to hijack every thread. So please, will the 80% of the forum members that have nothing but bitches and complaints and rants about how they can't have this, that, another color, less/more chrome, or where the f00kin' gas filler door is located please post here. that way those of us that are just happy as hell that a car like this is now available don't have to look at 20 minuites of negative crap every time we log in.

Thank You.

Theres a reason for everything!! Clearly this so-called "turnaround vehicle for pontiac" isnt wut its supposed to be!! So the grand prix and bonneville is FWD!! U people act like a lil torque steer is a life or death problem!! If u know how to drive like a pro then this kind of problem wont phase u none!! The GP and bonneville are pretty much better than the G8 right about now, im sorry to say. We all want the HUD, the information screen, and the other options that the GP and Bonneville had that the G8 doesnt!! So while you are bowing down to the G8 because of RWD, remember that RWD doesnt always make the perfect vehicle!! I raced a Mercury Marauder with my GP GXP and whooped his ass!! I didnt leave him out of sight, but i did pass him and he couldnt ever catch back up!! Basically sayin, the G8 can do a much better job replacing the bonneville and GP, otherwise i'll be stickin with my GP until a GXP version comes out and hopefully they'll be able to do sumthin about lack of HUD, and those two useless screens on the dash(one between the speedometer and tachometer, and the other above the radio). Pontiac needs to start thinkin before they act or the GP might rise from the dead in 2009...

Sorry if some of the wishful thinking and questions disturb your quiet, complacent, cheery little world. There are many of us who are disappointed, after waiting for so long for a replacement for the unceremoniously dropped Bonneville, see in the G8 a stripped down travesty being foisted upon us. I have had a number of Pontiacs over the years (Phoenix, Sunbird (wife's only Pontiac), 6000STE, Bonneville SSE, Bonneville SSEi, Grand Prix GXP). Each time, prior to the Grand Prix, I felt I was moving up to a better, more modern car. After hearing about the nonexistent G8 for two years I finally got the Grand Prix GXP because my Bonnie was in need of replacement, not because I wanted to move down to a lesser car. From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

I couldnt have said it better in my last statement!!:The_Villagers:

Theres a reason for everything!! Clearly this so-called "turnaround vehicle for pontiac" isnt wut its supposed to be!! So the grand prix and bonneville is FWD!! U people act like a lil torque steer is a life or death problem!! If u know how to drive like a pro then this kind of problem wont phase u none!! The GP and bonneville are pretty much better than the G8 right about now, im sorry to say. We all want the HUD, the information screen, and the other options that the GP and Bonneville had that the G8 doesnt!! So while you are bowing down to the G8 because of RWD, remember that RWD doesnt always make the perfect vehicle!! I raced a Mercury Marauder with my GP GXP and whooped his ass!! I didnt leave him out of sight, but i did pass him and he couldnt ever catch back up!! Basically sayin, the G8 can do a much better job replacing the bonneville and GP, otherwise i'll be stickin with my GP until a GXP version comes out and hopefully they'll be able to do sumthin about lack of HUD, and those two useless screens on the dash(one between the speedometer and tachometer, and the other above the radio). Pontiac needs to start thinkin before they act or the GP might rise from the dead in 2009...

So just have to ask, what is the reason for your rant? What does it have to do with paddle shifters? Sounds like you have a real race car on your hands and have no need for the G8.

Theres a reason for everything!! Clearly this so-called "turnaround vehicle for pontiac" isnt wut its supposed to be!! So the grand prix and bonneville is FWD!! U people act like a lil torque steer is a life or death problem!! If u know how to drive like a pro then this kind of problem wont phase u none!! The GP and bonneville are pretty much better than the G8 right about now, im sorry to say. We all want the HUD, the information screen, and the other options that the GP and Bonneville had that the G8 doesnt!! So while you are bowing down to the G8 because of RWD, remember that RWD doesnt always make the perfect vehicle!! I raced a Mercury Marauder with my GP GXP and whooped his ass!! I didnt leave him out of sight, but i did pass him and he couldnt ever catch back up!! Basically sayin, the G8 can do a much better job replacing the bonneville and GP, otherwise i'll be stickin with my GP until a GXP version comes out and hopefully they'll be able to do sumthin about lack of HUD, and those two useless screens on the dash(one between the speedometer and tachometer, and the other above the radio). Pontiac needs to start thinkin before they act or the GP might rise from the dead in 2009...

Troll!! Dude you are so full of it. FWD = wrong wheel drive. RWD = right wheel drive.

I'm sorry you are disappointed but I am of the exact opposite in opinion. The G8 is the first pontiac I have considered buying. My sister has a 2004 Grand Prix and it is a nice car, but not exactly what I am looking for. I have been looking for a car like this from some company for a long time. The other considerations I have had are the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS and BMW M5. The upside of the TL is the quality of the interior and the look of the exterior, the downside is the front wheel drive. The new CTS is simply awesome, but out of my price range. The BMW M5 has it all, but is way out of my price range. The G8 is 99% of what I have been looking for at a great price point for me.

My only disappointment is no navi. But I will get over it, it is just a frivolous option. HUD, Paddleshifters, XM Radio, and Navigation are not attributes that define the car.

I don't think there is anything glamorous about the pontiac name over the last decade. The interiors have been awful. Which is unfortunate because Pontiac used to be an awesome division at GM. Over the last few years Pontiac has begun to redeem itself. In my opinion, the G8 is going to be a quality car that will put Pontiac back up to the top of my list. I'm all for brand loyalty, but I will only buy a car from GM when it is objectively as good or better than the competition. In this case the G8 will deservedly get my sale.

I don't think the question is, "does the G8 deserve the pontiac name plate?" The question is "is the pontiac name plate good enough for the holden commodore?"

Again i say, RWD vs FWD doesnt really matter when u dont correctly equip a car, especially if youre replacin another car!! I must admit, it does give the charger a run for its money, but thats only because it is a direct competitor thanks to its RWD drivetrain. No matter wut u suckups say, this car doesnt quite match up to the Bonneville or GP yet. Maybe it will in the future. I hope so, because i have high hopes for this car. This is an amazin car, and can be even more amazing if GM puts some elbow grease in it. They wont do it with you all suckin up to them for finally releasing a RWD car. They need criticism from their consumers. They need criticism from us.:damnyou:

So just have to ask, what is the reason for your rant? What does it have to do with paddle shifters? Sounds like you have a real race car on your hands and have no need for the G8.

Sorry, didnt mean to get off topic. That just had to be expressed. About paddle shifters: i dont need them, but theyre cute. I can work with autostick.:driving:

Again i say, RWD vs FWD doesnt really matter when u dont correctly equip a car, especially if youre replacin another car!! I must admit, it does give the charger a run for its money, but thats only because it is a direct competitor thanks to its RWD drivetrain. No matter wut u suckups say, this car doesnt quite match up to the Bonneville or GP yet. Maybe it will in the future. I hope so, because i have high hopes for this car. This is an amazin car, and can be even more amazing if GM puts some elbow grease in it. They wont do it with you all suckin up to them for finally releasing a RWD car. They need criticism from their consumers. They need criticism from us.:damnyou:

Have you ever driven a rwd car?

Troll!! Dude you are so full of it. FWD = wrong wheel drive. RWD = right wheel drive.

Im not saying that FWD is better, all im saying is that u people make a big deal over a lil torque steer. If you all are such expert drivers with all these fast cars then FWD shouldnt bother u that much. I feel it in my GP and my aunts impala SS, but then again thats one reason y parents used to tell us "both hands on the wheel". They wasnt dumb!

Sorry, didnt mean to get off topic. That just had to be expressed. About paddle shifters: i dont need them, but theyre cute. I can work with autostick.:driving:

Probably best to amble on over to the Bonneville or GP board. They might appreciate you more there. I am pleased with what Lutz has done bringing the G8 over here. I have not owned a Pontiac since 78, but I will be buying a G8 GT.

Im not saying that FWD is better, all im saying is that u people make a big deal over a lil torque steer. If you all are such expert drivers with all these fast cars then FWD shouldnt bother u that much. I feel it in my GP and my aunts impala SS, but then again thats one reason y parents used to tell us "both hands on the wheel". They wasnt dumb!

Now I got it you are 15 and have never driven a rwd car.

Have you ever driven a rwd car?

Yes. My friends crown vic. My uncles charger. Test drove a magnum. In my younger days owned a parisienne and stole a 1996 impala SS. I must admit though, the majority of cars i've drove were FWD. Again, im not sayin FWD is better, because RWD is always better. But i would take a nicely equipped FWD over a plain RWD with similiar performance.

Now I got it you are 15 and have never driven a rwd car.
.........No. Im 24.

Im not saying that FWD is better, all im saying is that u people make a big deal over a lil torque steer. If you all are such expert drivers with all these fast cars then FWD shouldnt bother u that much. I feel it in my GP and my aunts impala SS, but then again thats one reason y parents used to tell us "both hands on the wheel". They wasnt dumb!

What happens when you spin the front wheels of a fwd car? You can't steer. What happens when you take off hard from a dead stop? All the weight goes to the rear and front tires spin worse.

What happens when you spin the front wheels of a fwd car? You can't steer. What happens when you take off hard from a dead stop? All the weight goes to the rear and front tires spin worse.

So true. But theres always a solution to a problem. Before u burn, turn the front wheels completely straight and put both hands on the wheel TIGHT!! You cant really steer, but by putting both hands on the wheel firmly, you can prevent the front wheels from turning hardly or even at all! I drive wit one hand like most men, but im not trying to look good when i race, so i sit up and put both hands on the wheel like a very careful woman!!

.........No. Im 24.

Are you buying a G8? No? Kthxbai

Probably best to amble on over to the Bonneville or GP board. They might appreciate you more there. I am pleased with what Lutz has done bringing the G8 over here. I have not owned a Pontiac since 78, but I will be buying a G8 GT.

Im not sayin that the G8 is a terrible car. I still want one. But it can be better. Right now there are pros and cons to owning a G8 vs a GP. I hope that by 2009, there wont be a single con to owning a G8(besides gas mileage)!

Im on this forum to encourage the G8 and give it some constructive criticism, not to bitch. And im not bitchin. I want this car to destroy sales of that acursed car people call the charger! If i was a total maniac of the GP, i wouldnt have even registered in the first place. I want this car better than the GP and bunny, and besides the RWD fact, it isnt quite better. Yet!!

Are you buying a G8? No? Kthxbai

Debating. I no one thing, if i do i wont trade the GP. I mite wait on the GXP version. Wut does Kthxbai mean???

[QUOTE=DollarBill;17610] I hope that by 2009, there wont be a single con to owning a G8(besides gas mileage)!

From what I've read, by the end of 2009 there may not be a GP to be had new anywhere!:bomb:

I considered ordering a GXP earlier, but the orders have been closed for weeks now. If you find one, it'll be adding floor plan interest on some dealer's lot inventory.

[QUOTE=DollarBill;17610] I hope that by 2009, there wont be a single con to owning a G8(besides gas mileage)!

From what I've read, by the end of 2009 there may not be a GP to be had new anywhere!:bomb:

It wont. If the G8 continues with these missing options, though, theres a chance that sales of used GPs and the last of new GPs will outpace the G8!

I considered ordering a GXP earlier, but the orders have been closed for weeks now. If you find one, it'll be adding floor plan interest on some dealer's lot inventory.

So u cant special order anymore GPs? Thats wierd, since it has over 8 months to live!

I considered ordering a GXP earlier, but the orders have been closed for weeks now. If you find one, it'll be adding floor plan interest on some dealer's lot inventory.

Yes they quit making the Grand Prix in 2007. GM made a bunch though to sell as 2008's.

Thats ****ed up. I have one, but i have a soft spot for the GP, although i like the G8 better(in most aspects). Im going to miss that cozy "surround" feeling you get when you sit inside a GP, Bonneville, and the Aurora, due to the curved ****pit. Its like the driver and passenger had thier own personal room. The GP is the last car like that.

Back to the subject, the sky is the limit for this car!

From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.


You must have not driven one to have such negative feelings toward this car. :gears:

You must have not driven one to have such negative feelings toward this car. :gears:

I must admit, "a step backward" maybe a lil harsh, but the G8 could be better. It is missing options that the GP and/or bonnevile had, and it is replacing them both. I luved them both. The only problem i had was the FWD config. If it wasnt for that, i wouldnt have a complaint in the world. The G8 is RWD, but im beginning to get clues that GM and RWD enthusiasts been without a non-lux RWD for so long that they wanted to take whatever was thrown out there. No HUD. No seat memory. Not much of a DIC(oil and volts, thats it? I wanna feel like im in a comfy full-size, not a sportscar!!!). Not so powerful entertainment system(the Vibe has a 320 watt monsoon!!! I brung this up before in the stereo forums, was no one listening!!!).

In short, if the G8 intends to properly replace the GP and bunny, it needs to do a better job! :nonono:

So just have to ask, what is the reason for your rant? What does it have to do with paddle shifters? Sounds like you have a real race car on your hands and have no need for the G8.

Judging by his statements, his complaints are right inline with most other GP owners, HUD is more important than RWD. :nuts:

Yes. My friends crown vic. My uncles charger. Test drove a magnum. In my younger days owned a parisienne and stole a 1996 impala SS. I must admit though, the majority of cars i've drove were FWD. Again, im not sayin FWD is better, because RWD is always better. But i would take a nicely equipped FWD over a plain RWD with similiar performance.


Wow, proud of that aren't ya? :sneaky:

Sorry if some of the wishful thinking and questions disturb your quiet, complacent, cheery little world. There are many of us who are disappointed, after waiting for so long for a replacement for the unceremoniously dropped Bonneville, see in the G8 a stripped down travesty being foisted upon us. I have had a number of Pontiacs over the years (Phoenix, Sunbird (wife's only Pontiac), 6000STE, Bonneville SSE, Bonneville SSEi, Grand Prix GXP). Each time, prior to the Grand Prix, I felt I was moving up to a better, more modern car. After hearing about the nonexistent G8 for two years I finally got the Grand Prix GXP because my Bonnie was in need of replacement, not because I wanted to move down to a lesser car. From my perspective, the 2008 G8 is a REAL step backward for Pontiac, with a car that does not deserve the Pontiac name attached to it.

The G8 a stripped down travesty...Nostalgia for a Bonneville. LOLOL
LOLOL Dude, those are some strong drugs you are on...or more likely some cheap ripple.

Cmon, the G8 is a world class car, an everyman's BMW. The Bonneville and Grand Prix are dinosaur technology suspension front drivers. The G8 will run rings arond those cars.

The only thing that is "stripped down" when comparing the G8 to a Bonneville or Grand Prix is that it doesn't have the cheap Rubbermaid cladding that covered those cars.

No HUD. No seat memory. Not much of a DIC(oil and volts, thats it? I wanna feel like im in a comfy full-size, not a sportscar!!!).

Clearly you need to do a little research. The DIC is the "Useless Screen" at least thats what you said, between the Speedo and the Tach. It provides trip odometer, oil life, tire pressure, voltmeter, average speed, distance and time to go, average fuel, fuel used and overspeed and underspeed warnings.

Entertaining thread. I've never had HUD, so I'm not missing it much. As far as seat memory, I'm the only who's getting behind the drivers seat. AFAIK, this isn't a full size car, my friends Buick whatever is still bigger inside. If you don't wanna feel like your in a sports car, don't buy this one, cause that's how I feel. :driving:

I'm gonna have to agree with $bill on this. Obviously, right? ;)

The majority of recent Pontiac owners are used to good interior features. HUD, all-way completely power seats, dimming inside mirrors, heated outside mirrors, reading lights, lighted footwells, etc, etc...

A lot of people on this board are GTO owners or possibly first-time-in-years Pontiac buyers that aren't aware of what Pontiac has been. They sold a good bajillion Grand Prixs and Bonnevilles combined in the last 15 years or so. I think Pontiac is alienating a ton of loyal Pontiac buyers that bought them for their features. Given two Pontiacs, same price, same looks, same power... one RWD, better chassis and barren inside, one FWD with all the interior features I want, I might just buy the FWD version.

And for a comparison none of you will likely care about...

If you take away all the RWD "advantages" that are only appearant when driven in a manner that will get you pulled over, you get FWD as the clear winner because it drives better in snow and loses less HP/MPG to the drivetrain parasite.


...

All that said, paddle shifters were cool for about an hour in 2004. If I wanna shift, I'll buy a manual.

They sold a good bajillion Grand Prixs and Bonnevilles combined in the last 15 years or so.

They sold a lot of GPs and Bonnevilles, but a good percentage of those sold were fleet vehicles.

Even if you don't count fleet sales the sales per year far exceed how many G8s they're building.

Clearly you need to do a little research. The DIC is the "Useless Screen" at least thats what you said, between the Speedo and the Tach. It provides trip odometer, oil life, tire pressure, voltmeter, average speed, distance and time to go, average fuel, fuel used and overspeed and underspeed warnings.

And thats still not even half of what the DIC in the GP and Bunny shows! Temp outside? Door ajar? Its a lot more i cant even think of rite now! :rant:

Entertaining thread. I've never had HUD, so I'm not missing it much. As far as seat memory, I'm the only who's getting behind the drivers seat. AFAIK, this isn't a full size car, my friends Buick whatever is still bigger inside. If you don't wanna feel like your in a sports car, don't buy this one, cause that's how I feel. :driving:

Actually, this is a full size. Wikipedia states that its the first full size pontiac since the bonneville, and all of the lux cars based on the commodore are full size, putting the commodore in that category as well.

Have most of you people not been realizing this? This car IS biger than the GP, and almost as big as the bonneville!

(For J Wikoff's second to last message)

Finally, someone that understands me! And you just said sumthin that was o so true but i didnt realize it. Most of these posters are either GTO owners or 1st time pontiac buyers that just recently owned a RWD sedan. They dont really care about what is equipped in the vehicle; if its FWD, it gotta go. I luv RWD, but i also luv to feel at home in a full size sedan. The bunny had me practically sleepin in there!

Im not worried though. I think when GM start to really put their own elbow grease into this car, most of these missing options will start to come to life. Mite be by 2010 though...

In most cases, it's actually bigger than GP or Bonny.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/jwikoff99/dim_compare.jpg

In most cases, it's actually bigger than GP or Bonny.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/jwikoff99/dim_compare.jpg

Hmmm. Interesting. :cartman:

Im guessin the G8 GXP will cover all the missing options and luxuries so we all will be happy......i hope. :popcorn2:

Uh-h-h-h, no, the GXP will most likely not add all the missing options, unless you count Brembo brakes, polished wheels, more supportive seats, a larger motor and the like.

Uh-h-h-h, no, the GXP will most likely not add all the missing options, unless you count Brembo brakes, polished wheels, more supportive seats, a larger motor and the like.

Seriously. Whats there to be dissappointed about when the "Go" wheels are actually in the proper place. Have fun with your wifes Torque steer monster.

I believe the G8 will be an incredible deal for the performance that you get, and is priced as such. If you want something with more gizmos and options and pay out the ass for them then go buy a CTS. I believe a fully loaded V6 model is around $45,000?

I agree with this guy

I thought Pontiac was GM's "Performance Division"? If you want a fru-fru couch-mobile go buy a buick/cadillac/chrysler/lincoln etc...

That's just it. Pontiac used to try to be both. Sport AND luxury.

That's just it. Pontiac used to try to be both. Sport AND luxury.

And it wasnt a effin thang wrong wit that! All of u guys that are trying to get us to see that the drive wheels are in the right place and thats all that matters obviously dont know about pontiacs from the past! :madsign3:

You all keep sayin that all those gizmos will cost a lot extra. All those gizmos on the GP GXP was offered and it was 30k! On the bunny it was below 36k!

In my Corvette ( since the G8 does not have this feature, I presume that’s what you are referring to – though it appears the G8 will perform roughly the same – except that the shift lever will be the ‘activating mechanism’ ) when using the paddles, the trans. ( 6L80, as in the G8 GT ) will not upshift. It will bounce off the rev limiter.

It will downshift as you slow – though not really as a result of the rev limiter. My Corvette will downshift only to Second Gear – not all the way to First. ( The G8 GT, according to the “Getting To Know Your G8” pamphlet, the G8 will downshift all the way to First Gear, as you slow. My Corvette drops from Third to Second Gear when speed drops below 9 MPH. )

There may be other differences – that I will discover when I
( finally ) drive one . . .
Cheers,
- Ray
Eager to experience the ‘rev match one downshift’ as well . . .

As I recall, one of the improvements in the 2008 Corvette (besides the LS3) was much shorter shift times for the A6 as compared to the 2007 model. I'm assuming that the '08 Corvette still kept the 6L80? But with revised software? So would any of you GMers lurking out there know which spec the G8 GT uses? From the complaints about the G8 A6, it sounds like Holden is still using the older generation A6 software? Or does it need to be a different spec due to the cylinder shutdown capability of the G8's engine? Any chance that the 2009 G8 will incorporate revised A6 software? So many questions...anyone out there with facts (rather than opinions)?

As I recall, one of the improvements in the 2008 Corvette (besides the LS3) was much shorter shift times for the A6 as compared to the 2007 model. I'm assuming that the '08 Corvette still kept the 6L80? But with revised software? So would any of you GMers lurking out there know which spec the G8 GT uses? From the complaints about the G8 A6, it sounds like Holden is still using the older generation A6 software? Or does it need to be a different spec due to the cylinder shutdown capability of the G8's engine? Any chance that the 2009 G8 will incorporate revised A6 software? So many questions...anyone out there with facts (rather than opinions)?

1 fact - in the Corvette, the 2008 6L80 received both
hardware & software 'updates':

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v610/talon_90th/Corvette/NCM%20Bash%202007/2008%20Introduction%20slides/100_8102.jpg

Fact 2 - in a brief test drive of a G8 GT,
the 'rev match on downshift' worked much better than
in my 2007 A6 Corvette.....
- Ray
Open to other facts - from other sources...

1 fact - in the Corvette, the 2008 6L80 received both
hardware & software 'updates':

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v610/talon_90th/Corvette/NCM%20Bash%202007/2008%20Introduction%20slides/100_8102.jpg

Fact 2 - in a brief test drive of a G8 GT,
the 'rev match on downshift' worked much better than
in my 2007 A6 Corvette.....
- Ray
Open to other facts - from other sources...

Ray - Thanks for the facts! (I didn't mean to imply that it was you with the opinions - that was pointed at OTHER folks' irrelevant blah-blah-blah that I had to wade through on this thread). I have yet to drive the G8 GT, so I was trying to understand the source of the "complaints" on its A6. From your positive feedback, it sounds like Holden's A6 application is an improvement on the '07 Corvette's. That's encouraging. I'll have to make that effort for a test drive. I'm still waiting on some GMer lurking out there (c'mon, we know you are out there, just like you were on LS1GTO.com) to spill the technical beans on the G8 A6 application.

Theres a reason for everything!! Clearly this so-called "turnaround vehicle for pontiac" isnt wut its supposed to be!! So the grand prix and bonneville is FWD!! U people act like a lil torque steer is a life or death problem!! If u know how to drive like a pro then this kind of problem wont phase u none!! The GP and bonneville are pretty much better than the G8 right about now, im sorry to say. We all want the HUD, the information screen, and the other options that the GP and Bonneville had that the G8 doesnt!! So while you are bowing down to the G8 because of RWD, remember that RWD doesnt always make the perfect vehicle!! I raced a Mercury Marauder with my GP GXP and whooped his ass!! I didnt leave him out of sight, but i did pass him and he couldnt ever catch back up!! Basically sayin, the G8 can do a much better job replacing the bonneville and GP, otherwise i'll be stickin with my GP until a GXP version comes out and hopefully they'll be able to do sumthin about lack of HUD, and those two useless screens on the dash(one between the speedometer and tachometer, and the other above the radio). Pontiac needs to start thinkin before they act or the GP might rise from the dead in 2009...

:whine:

Hmmm. Interesting.

Yeah the G8 has more headroom than the GP.....based on my completely scientific testing.

Yeah the G8 has more headroom than the GP.....based on my completely scientific testing.

Then whats with these fools thinking that the G8 is a modsize vehicle!!! :banghead:

And thats still not even half of what the DIC in the GP and Bunny shows! Temp outside? Door ajar? Its a lot more i cant even think of rite now! :rant:


This information is available in the car.
Maybe you should drive one instead of looking at pics on the internet to base your misinformed and badly spelled opinions on.

Wait, maybe you have driven one and you are just upset about something... Your name wouldn't happen to be Robert Steinmiller would it?


http://www.g8nation.com/2008/04/2008-pontiac-g8-stolen-recovered-by-onstar-and-police/

You did say you had a history of stealing cars....

This information is available in the car.
Maybe you should drive one instead of looking at pics on the internet to base your misinformed and badly spelled opinions on.

Wait, maybe you have driven one and you are just upset about something... Your name wouldn't happen to be Robert Steinmiller would it?


http://www.g8nation.com/2008/04/2008-pontiac-g8-stolen-recovered-by-onstar-and-police/

You did say you had a history of stealing cars....

Trust me its not. I wouldnt steal a just released vehicle such as this(or any brand new vehicle for that matter). It would make me look like i'm too poor to afford the vehicle. If i did though, the story would be called the G8 that got away....:gr_devil:

Anyway, i cant drive one because all the pontiac dealerships around me are out of stock(both only had one to come in, both were fully loaded GTs). Based on what the brochure says though, Door ajar and temp outside is missing from the DIC. I dont even think the DIC tells you how many miles left til empty! Thats a screw up in itself!!!

badly spelled opinions on.

POORLY spelled opinions...

If you're going to knock one's spelling, get your adverbs right. :p

:stickpoke:

Based on what the brochure says though, Door ajar and temp outside is missing from the DIC. I dont even think the DIC tells you how many miles left til empty! Thats a screw up in itself!!![/QUOTE]

While not through the DIC, there is a Door Ajar light and outside temp indicator which appear in the center display. DIC does have fuel range, however. I didn't learn this from the brochure, I learned it from my new car!!

Based on what the brochure says though, Door ajar and temp outside is missing from the DIC. I dont even think the DIC tells you how many miles left til empty! Thats a screw up in itself!!!

While not through the DIC, there is a Door Ajar light and outside temp indicator which appear in the center display. DIC does have fuel range, however. I didn't learn this from the brochure, I learned it from my new car!![/QUOTE]

Well....better than nothing(i still like that little car diagram in the older pontiac DIC's though). I didnt think it had fuel range because i saw on another thread(not sure if it was in this forum or not)that sum guy was complaining about not knowing when his G8 was going to run out of gas. Maybe he didnt know either. What i wanna know is, why didnt the brochure tell me all this??? It tells every bit in the GP brochure??? :bs:

guy was complaining about not knowing when his G8 was going to run out of gas

Jesus.. use the effing gas gauge!

Once it really matters how many miles you have left to go the "miles to go" indicator only says low range anyway. Thats the way it was in my 97 and 04 GTP.