Solstice GXP in Los Angeles
GM’s Mark LaNeve introduces the new 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
As you know, the Pontiac Solstice is near and dear to my heart, as I know it is to many of yours… This week at the Los Angeles Auto Show we introduced a performance variant that’s sure to get all of our hearts pumping.
The 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP should more than answer any critics who found the standard Solstice lacking in power and punch – however misguided their complaints may have been! The GXP version is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo direct injection four that makes a quite enjoyable 260 horsepower (here’s where I’m forced to add the word “estimated” because the final numbers aren’t in yet – but that’s right in the ballpark), which is nearly 50 percent more than the current Solstice. Talk about having your cake and eating it too.
Stability control, anti-lock brakes, power windows/locks/mirrors and a sports-tuned suspension are all standard equipment on GXP models. All for just about $4,000 to $5,000 more than the $20,490 that can put you in the base model–we won’t officially price it until closer to its on-sale date this summer.
You can find out more about the Solstice GXP, and our other Los Angeles show introductions, at gm.com. In the meantime, I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
- Posted in Bob Lutz
Bruce McPherran
Congrats to the Chevrolet division for beating out Ford. Love the new lineup keep up the good work. But need a way to get misguided comsumers out of those darn foreign cars and support their fellow americans. LOVE MY CHEVY PUCHASED IN 2003 ZERO WARRANTY PROBLEMS.
Scott
While the Solstice is a nice car from a salespersons perspective its hard to get excited about it.There is no availability and the margins are small.We need vehicles that are produced to market demand,not flooding the market so we can make a decent living.Under the current conditions selling GM products with a very few exceptions you are driving away the pros and creating an enviroment of order takers and high sales force turnover
getalifeagain
Thank you Bob, for proving Americans can make the best.
GM does have many other cars that are on par with the foreign makes. Even better. You have to get confidence in the showroom to keep the prospective buyers there and buying!
Tim
Glad to hear the high powered Solstice will get either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission.
BUT….where the heck are the 5 speed (or 6 speed) automatic transmissions for the new 2007 5.3 litre V-8 equipped Yukons and Tahoes?
Across the board GM has 4 speed automatic transmissions in many “new products” (Tahoe/Yukon, Impala, G6, LaCrosse, HHR, Corvette, H3, Lucerne, and others) where as the direct competitors to these vehicles have 5 to 7 speed automatics.
When will this enormous gaffe be corrected?
David Eagle
I saw the Solstice GXP at the LA Auto Show sneak preview last night and it looked fantastic, not that the base Solstice needed any cosmetic improvement. I got the chance to sit in and inspect the Solstice up close for the first time and, despite the need for a bit more leg room (I’m 6′4″), I was impressed.
You might also appreciate this: as I was sitting in the Solstice, there were three men poking around the car looking at the various details. Noticing that their name badges all said “Honda R & D”, I jokingly asked “what are you guys worried about? You’ve got the S2000.” Their only response was nervous laughter.
Kenneth
I would like to congratulate GM on exceeding my expectations with the Solstice GXP. DI, T/C, ABS, & finally a manual trans in a Pontiac (why did it take you so long?) are all things that really help this vehicle stand out & crush (hopefully) the MS MX-5.
GM is finally starting to get things right in every way and I really hope that you continue on your current path of good vehicles. Just get us those 6 speed autos, continue to improve interiors & NEVER give up improving your quality (and not just initial, but long term as well). I currently own a Ford, but with the way things are going I may just own a GM in the near future (specifically an Aura redline, unless the SVT Fusion is better).
Ming
Bob,
The Solstice, HHR and H3 are great products, and I hope to see more value-packed winners like these in the future.
New platforms, new engines, great exterior styling and affordable pricing — that is why these vehicles are so great and so desireable.
When a lump of a Chinese 3400 engine is thrown in a Torrent and called “sporty”, or the W-body/4-speed/3800 combo rehashed for Buick in a slippery new skin for the umpteenth time, people notice.
Similarly, people notice when GM is pumping real R&D and EFFORT into making world class products from the best components available.
Bravo on the Solstice, and this GXP gem, Bob. I’m sure some will complain that it doesn’t have 300hp, a V8, and a trunk the size of a Bonneville’s, but for what it was built for the Solstice rocks. I wait with extreme anticipation for its SCCA hardtop racing debut!
John
Bob:How about a sweet looking baby vintage 1957 Vette based around the Solstice and Sky? Keep up the great work! Sharp cars from sharp minds. John
onell annz
Congratulations Mr. Lutz, for producing another great product! But why you are not making Pontiac Torrent’s rear door like that of a Hummer or CRV (spare tire on the outside)? This will make clear distinction from Equinox. Stop the rebadge!
CodyS
Why couldn’t the same passion and creativity have gone into the GTO as was the Solstice? Maybe if it had the GTO might not have been such a turkey.
Mark
I’m smiling as I look at the picture of the Solstice in bright yellow… I posted a couple of months ago about how great the car would look in “Corvette Yellow” and here it is!! Hmmmmm… maybe you guys do pay attention to the blogs! Now then, if you had only made it possible to get the HID headlamps on my fully loaded V6 STS (The other question I pondered, which by the way is still very frustrating that they were not available—but I digress) Great job on the Solstice and as soon as supply catches up with demand I will put a yellow GXP in my garage.
Chad C
I agree with the 5 speed. Is it really that much more expensive to add to the other models for GM? Likewise, when is the trunk issue for the Solstice and Sky gonna be addressed? The Miata actually has weekend getaway room with the top down. The Soltsice has none with top down. That’s the biggest strike I see against it, and it does push alot of people away from it due to lack of space.
John
Glad to hear the GXP is coming out soon.
But honestly, do you have to refer to your critics as misguided?
The base Solstice weighs almost four hundred pounds more than the new Miata MX-5 with only 7 more horsepower.
I don’t mean to be rude, but it’s not really that misguided to refer to a car with a worse power to weight ration than a Miata as lacking in power and punch.
Why don’t you all make New Year’s Resolution to start making new cars that are the benchmarks for their respective classes, so you can spend less time disparaging the critics?
And how about starting with a new RWD/stick shifted Camaro/Chevelle/Nomad?
And how about making it available before 2009?
Brian Vermette
Thats alot of power for such a small two seater car and the price to boot. $25K plus for 265 horsepower…I have seen photos of a new Solstice with a hardtop, the concept with the hardtop looks similer to the Chevrolet Nomad concept a year or two ago. Not bad, any chances of seeing that hardtop as a four-seater.
One note: I loved to look of the Chevrolet Nomad Concept, will it hit production and if so, 4 seater, and maybe All-Wheel-Drive for us in New England. With that, you might have a couple of buyers…
See Yeah!
Craig
Bob, you are the man…or is that car guy! The 260hp Solstice sounds sweet. Now get us a hot new 2008 Camaro SS and will be a (car) God. As stated before, thanks for helping get Chevrolet back to where it belongs, as USA-1.
John
Also, how excited is everyone for the unveiling of the Camaro concept car on Monday?
Now if GM could just get it together and get it to market BEFORE the Challenger, with more horsepower and a lower price, THAT would be feat to be proud of!
Kevin
High praise for my new 2006 Malibu Maxx! We purchased the car 12/23 and drove from gloomy OH to Florida on 12/27. The Maxx was fantastic. I got 31 mpg on the trip, the family was comfortable and tons of room too. Keep up the great job!
Scott
The Solstice is one of the first GM products to really catch my eye. The emphasis on balanced handling and light weight are two of the aspects of the car that appeal to me. I’m disappointed in the interior of the car, but I’d still like to test drive one. The GXP is definitely taking the car to the next level.
Regarding Bruce McPherran’s comment that “misguided comsumers” aren’t doing their part to support their fellow Americans, I feel that that’s not the case. Honda’s manufacturing operations in Ohio, for example, employ over 16,000 individuals from that state. That’s not even including their domestic suppliers, which account for over 70 percent of the company’s purchased costs (www.ohio.honda.com).
Consumers can choose foreign nameplates or domestic ones, and still take satisfaction in the fact that they are helping to support their fellow Americans.
Edward Hayes
Interesting about face for Business Week. Last couple of weeks it was talking about removing GM from the Dow 30, along with quips about how GM can’t recover because of the unions. (Interestingly though they did a nice article about Boeing’s recovery just a few pages before it, don’t they have unions?)
Well all is forgiven now with the Solstice’s sister ship gracing the cover of Business Week. I look forward to reading it. It looks much better than the Civic polluting the cover of…or the Ridgeline.
Will the smartest car magazine now stand up and take a bow.
Congratulations to GM on your global sales successes too numerous to mention, the competition here is making you a superior automaker everywhere.
GM is on the fix in 2006!
Let the Lutzonian design revolution begin. Long live the gloden age of design excellence part II.
Success is what you plan, glory is what you stumble into.
-Hayes
Tim
$20,490 for the base Solstice? What happened to “starting under $20k”.
I loved the (more practical) coupe and hope that machine ends up at my local pontiac dealer someday!
Edward
Bob,
The Solstice is nice and all. But most of us will never have a chance to buy such a car, even when we can afford it. Life situations demand different things.
How about investing some money to help HHR, Malibu’s interior and G6 Interiors…
Remember Nissan redesigned Altima’s interior completely despite it selling quite well just because it was criticized…Will you do the same for Malibu? Please? And the HHR and G6?
The G6 is great…if only you would offer better engines, horsepower (260 HP like Honda) and refurbished the interiors like you did for the impala.
Tell your people in Marketing to kill rebates. They discourage people from buying
GM because, in a month or two, someone may pay $5000.00 less than they paid.
I have a friend who is furious about that.
Now on other things..When you redesign the Next CTS, please make sure its smaller in size than the current BMW 3 Series and perhaps take the dimensions of the outgoing 3 Series. I doubt GM can build a sedan that small.
Trust me, on this one. Even if you do not know me. It will help you sell it globally, and also help you kill the unnecessary BLS for Europe.
Ray
I’m actually surprised Bob, that you aren’t talking about the moves you guys made in China this past week. I feel like there should be kudos going around to the whole team for over-taking VW…and proving yet again that the being #1 over the long-haul isn’t a battle won or lost in one nation at any one time, but rather, its a war fought over many years.
AD
I’ve got say that people have been misled with their concern about the amount of “speeds” of an automatic transmission. What really matters is final drive ratio in combination with converter slip and overall spread between highest to lowest ratio. In other words, It is quite posible to get superior performance with less “gears” by applying or matching a transmission to the specific vehicle and it’s intended purpose. A well “calibrated” package beats the devil out of poorly tuned “features for features sake” combinations.
I would also suggest that those concerned with transmission speeds consider that modern automatic transmissions specifically GM branded models are with out peers when considerations are given towards shift “feels” and responses. Also that GM has led the installation and calibration of converter clutchs which some could consider another ratio in the transmission, in essence the capabilty of spliting a four speed transmission into a seven speed transmission (no gain locking converter in first gear).
But none of this has much to do with the Solstice which I do hope by this time has been awarded the North American Car of The Year honor. For all the discouraging talk about GM styling in the recent past, this model may have ended the noise. Now it’s time to spread the talk about value and integrity of the entire organization.
Fformula88
Mr. Lutz, I’d first like to thank you for the Solstice, and now the Solstice GXP! Both are awesome cars and great values! As a moderator at solsticeforum.com, I have seen first hand the excitement the GXP has generated. Everyone is esctatic about the announcement of the GXP as a production vehicle, and especially it’s engine power and features for the estimated price! This vehicle should get a lot of people excited in GM again! I cannot wait to take delivery of my own GXP! Thanks, and keep up the excellent work on this string of good products!
Leslie
I suspect the Solstice is another fine GM vehicle well engineered for the purposes its intended for. Getting that understanding in the minds of more members of the urban public is the challenge GM faces.
Ron
As one of the previous posts mentions the availability for the Solstice is very sub par. The dealers in Utah are saying that you would be lucky to see a Solstice for 6-9 months.
This means quite a few people will be looking for other options. My Boxster lease is up in 2 months and I will not drive anything other than a 2 seat roadster but the only other American option is the Corvette.
GM should really look at changing the production mix to capitalize on finally making a cool looking car!
Dave
I love the Solstice and especially the Saturn Sky but I only have one problem with both models… where’s the trunk? It seems there pretty much isn’t one.
Sam Houston
I finally saw a Solstice on the road yesterday. I was beginning to think the car was an elaborate hoax. How long before this new version is ready? Either version should do well if they ever actually go into full production. It’s a sharp little car.
Now about that new El Camino…
Design_Kid
Congratulations Bob,
The Solstice GPX is a hot car!
I watched the Times Square new-years-eve coverage over the net from Australia and was really impressed with the way the GM cars were presented at that event.
Solstice shows the world that GM can take a desirable concept car and execute a production car that remains every bit as desirable as the original concept.
As a young car designer who has had some experience at the execution end of the process, I know how hard it must have been to get the Solstice to production looking as good as it does. Its a real inspiration.
The Solstice is one of a growing number of GM North-America cars I would love to see cruising the streets here in Australia… even more desirable for Australia is the upcoming Saturn Sky - yeah!..I can picture a Holden badge on the front of the Sky… AND I can also picture a Saturn badge on the front of a particular rear-wheel-drive sedan we make down under…but I’ll save that idea for another day.
Rob
What?
Luts saying “The 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP should more than answer any critics who found the standard Solstice lacking in power and punch – however misguided their complaints may have been!”
News to out-of-touch GM-exec-millionaire: complaints are customer feedback! Don’t call your customers ‘misguided’ (or even the media, in your desperate situation). Don’t tell America what should suit their tastes (Cadillac BLS).
GM, in all it’s intact-arrogance, is still trying to dictate what people want in a vehicle, instead of listen.
John
Bob,
Soltice is great, but why is the styling of just about everything else so bland. If all the Pontiacs had Soltice styling cues, 6 speed trans, 3.6L DOHC & 5.3L engines, 6 speed auto transmission, available AWD optional, & better quality interiors then you wouldn’t need all the rebates.
Also, please stop the rebate game and make a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty standard. Sell on the product quality & value then. Thanks. Rooting for GM.
Josh E Oliver
Being a current ‘06 Solstice owner (V.I.N. # 4169) I’m hoping GM plans some “kits” of sorts for the 2.4l for those of us that would like a little more bump in power.
The GMPD intake & cat-back exchaust I’ve read about have given a nice boost in power, but I’m looking for a little more for my black Sol once it’s nice enough to drop the top here in metro-Detroit.
Josh E. Oliver
http://www.CheersandGears.com
Mark W.
Great job on the HP number, Mr. Lutz! I am eagerly waiting to trade in my 2002 Grand Prix for one of these for my wife. She is in love with the car and can’t wait to drive it! This was a hard decision, since the bad experience w/ my 2003 Monte Carlo brakes (over and over and over!), I have actually looked at others…not any more!
bernie
Great new products and the Chevrolet brand is finally number one again, Congratulations. I must add however, that the bland and vulnerable Camry remains the top selling car in America. When will Chevrolet build a car for everyone? The Malibu comes close, keep it up and promote the features. Stop advertising price!
Bob Miller
I like the new Solstice - Personally, I think it looks a lot better than the MX-5.
I have to agree with Tim right above this post - where are the 5 and 6 speed autos in the other cars?
Here are my thoughts from when I went and looked at a new Buick Lucerne on a particularly cold and windy day at a local dealer here in Houston: (where you guys are not doing very well in the car department - the only GM products I see on the roads around Houston are Tahoes, Yukons and trucks - you have some major work to do in Houston Bob. This is definitely Toyota and Honda country, big time.)
anywho…
The Buick looked great from the outside. I loved the lines, the wheels, etc…My first impression upon getting inside: “hmmm, not bad”. But, when I reached for the steering column, I noticed something that wasn’t in this car, but was certainly in the Avalon - an electric tilt and telescoping wheel. Hmmm. For this type of car, that should be standard fare. There were a few other things missing too that would either need to be ordered as options, or simply weren’t available that Toyota and even Hyundai offer. And, we won’t even get into the anemic 3.8L V6 that for some odd reason you guys made the only V6 available. This car is too important to skimp on Bob. Although the exterior and interior styling are nice, and perhaps the driveability and quality are a significant step above the old LeSabre - you still needed to come to market with big 18″ guns - not the 14″ WWI style guns. Honestly, this car should have had the Cadillac STS rear drive underpinnings with a Buick body - with tons of features standard with the multi-valve V6 as the standard base engine (the 3.6L?? with VVT). If Chrysler can use E500 parts on the 300C - then I know GM can put STS parts under the skin of a Buick. In the long run, doesn’t it actually come out to be a savings because you’re selling more of the same product (per unit cost would go down, right???)
And this brings us to the major problem at GM. Using these old engines and old platforms under reworked skins and better interiors is not fooling the critics. It’s too competitive and magazines like Motor Trend and Car and Driver seem to really have it out for you guys lately. You have to be bigger, better and stronger than the competition - pretty much every time. Chrysler is actually doing it right now, and hence they have increased their market share in 2005.
Putting a rear drive Buick out on the market, with a lot of innovative features standard, using the STS platform and pricing it a tick below the 300C would not only get potential 300C customers into your showrooms, but Avalon and maybe even a few Lexus and BMW customers too. But no one is getting fooled by sub-200 hp pushrod engines, and an almost $40,000 sticker price for a car that really doesn’t offer me anything other than a pretty exterior and perhaps a nice looking dashboard. I can get that in an Avalon and have more horsepower and a lot more standard features.
It’s constructive criticism Bob. I’d hate to see GM get outgunned by a company like Hyundai.
GM needs to come on over for the big win - and really put some products out there that make the eyebrows raise up. It can be done - we all remember the 1955-57 Chevys.
Ayocee
Well, it may not have been officially announced, but you can thank Road & Track for this: THANK YOU for the Camaro concept. I figure you’ve had enough comments asking for it…well, now that it’s ‘here’, just fix the mirrors a bit and make mine with an LS2 and a T-56.
Chris C
I am VERY impressed with the engine you’re putting in this GXP. Might I suggest putting it in the g6 as well, i think it would be a better parter to the g6 gtp as its lighter and more efficient? I have always felt that pontiac needs to differentiate itself from chevy with turbo powered cars, it is the prefered method of making power to many sport ethusiasts. The inclusion of direct injection is a great move, spread it out over more of your powertrains!! This will help GM gain a reputation of technological advancement (along with active fuel management) to seperate yourselves from the asian and domestic competition.
Jim F.
Dear Mr. Lutz,
With the introduction of the GXP, which Solstice would you buy (base or GXP) and why?
jamie
HOT! HOT! HOT!
Finally GM is getting it right.
Saturn Sky has the 2.2 dohc L4
Pontiac Solstice is ‘really bad dad’ with the 2.2 turbo
How about a Buick Riviera version with a 2.8 dohc V6?
And to round out the field, of course, you have the 6.2 ohv V8 Chevrolet Corvette.
Let’s not forget the Cadillac XLR with a 4.6 dohc V8.
Great sport cars for great sporty people; and ever one of them has a ‘different’ personality.
GREAT JOB, LUTZ!
Caught a glimpse of the new Chevy Camaro. Oh WOW! You really outdid yourself this time!!!!
SteveG
The G6 finished a miserable last in the latest comparo between brands.
Do you guys read the car mags? You should, consumers do.
I suggest you read them all and bone up on the changes you need to make in your cars to make them better.
No electric steering for one.
Make your cars lighter.
6 speed automatic.
The placement of window switches, especially in the HHR. On the console and not the door? idiotic.
No PRNDL markings next to the Impalas floor shifter? Moronic.
Fit and finish on the Malibu, etc.
Guys, get your act together already, its getting a little stale.
Oh, and increase your warranties-now.
GM Worker
Camaro, let’s do it. You know we’re in.
Signed, GM workers.
Dan
How about a Solstice COUPE?! Perhaps that would be a good opportunity to get the Solstice down closer to fighting weight, eliminating all the convertible hardware. I’d rather see a
Dan
How about a Solstice COUPE?! Perhaps that would be a good opportunity to get the Solstice down closer to fighting weight, eliminating all the convertible hardware. I’d rather see a
Christian Aviles
Here’s the Solstice I’ve been waiting for, well I guess I’m still waiting for. Get it out and two owners ASAP please. Dont make us wait for a very long ramp up like with the base Solstice and scold dealers for mark-ups.
ALLEN
Bob; What America is looking for are Retro’s cars that look like the old 67 Pontiac GTO’S and NOMAD Nova STYLE DESIGN. What you guys did to the 67 impala, 60’s nova and 57 corvettes is awfull not to mention who you have designing your cars today. If I’m going to be spending close to what I can buy a house for. THEN GIVE ME SOMETHING THAT SAYS IT WORTH IT. MAKE ME A CAR THAT LOOKS LIKE THE OLD 67-68 GTO AND I WILL SPEND MY MONEY HERE OTHERWISE IF I HAVE TO GO DEPENABLE IT’S ASIAN
ALLEN
Bob; What America is looking for are Retro’s cars that look like the old 67 Pontiac GTO’S and NOMAD Nova STYLE DESIGN. What you guys did to the 67 impala, 60’s nova and 57 corvettes is awfull not to mention who you have designing your cars today. If I’m going to be spending close to what I can buy a house for. THEN GIVE ME SOMETHING THAT SAYS IT WORTH IT. MAKE ME A CAR THAT LOOKS LIKE THE OLD 67-68 GTO AND I WILL SPEND MY MONEY HERE OTHERWISE IF I HAVE TO GO DEPENABLE IT’S ASIAN
Dennis Moyer
Thanks Bob for keeping in touch here. Great job on the Camaro concept! Now just build it and they will come. Keep the IRS and list Hugger Orange as a color option. In fact, bring back the “Hugger” nickname too. I want this to be my next new car, I won’t buy a Mustang, and please don’t force me into a Challenger. Maybe you can do an El Camino and Nomad on the same basic platform to keep the line humming at full tilt. Talk about An American Revolution!
…
I remember a story from back when Japanese cars were starting to talk (thankfully, they are quiet now except for giving directions, and only when asked…) and it was reported that the (then) president of General Motors was at the Tokyo auto show and a car he was in said “the door is open” and he shot back “I know it is, I’m the one who opened it!” Now the door to the American market has been wide open for a long time - at least we give everyone a chance - and others have taken full advantage of the opportunity to sit at our table. They are nice and comfortable, and I hope we can start eating their lunch for a change.
…
One last note: investment in new product is like investing in education. It is easy to decide not to spend the money, but eventually, you will pay for it one way or the other.
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: The Solstice GXP looks terrific and 260 HP out of a 2.0L engine is impressive, making the GXP a logical next step for the Kappa platform. Now make it really interesting with a true 4 door sedan capable of competing door to door with the BMW 3-series including the M3. GM has the drive-trains 3.6L V6, 4.2L I-6 and 5.3L V8 with 6-speed manual or automatic and more than enough chassis talent (a Le Mans win and multiple road racing championships) - just do it.
A 2 or 3 door coupe would be great also and would only take a wheelbase stretch which the Kappa architecture is supposed to be able to make easily. Please include a usable rear seat and trunk. Could be the next Firebird; it would be a refreshing change from the previous shared platform with the Camaro.
The ‘54 Corvette styled wagon would be another great addition combining great looks with utility.
Thanks for your time and I am sure you have plans far beyond what has been shown so far; can’t wait to see them.
Will
Great job on the Solstice Bob, you really surprised me with that one! Turbo to boot.
When my girlfriend asked me what a good first new car to buy would be, I told her Solstice. She picks hers up next week.
Marty S
This is the furst GM car I have considered purchasing. I have had Chrysler, Ford, Nissan and VW, but have always consciously avoided GM. This looks like an exciting, unique car and I will take a look at it.
Paul Eccles
This sounds awesome. I hope it gets a 6 speed manual transmission. Good to see you apply direct gas injection. I hope this technology get applied in more of the GM engines soon.
Patrick
I read a few people suggest increasing the total amount of production solstice’s. DO NOT LISTEN. Half the buzz is that no one can get there hands on one. If you want to bring more people in then make a coupe of the solstice or perhaps the nomad. But dont disturb the production count to the solstice nor the introduction to the sky. Also, please keep your word on the GXP going into the mix of the 20k solstice’s a year. Dont over do it like the fiero!!!!
Bill
Hi, I wanted to say that I am a proud owner of a 05 GTO. I love the power, comfort interior, handling of my goat. However, I see with all the new cars coming out like the new Camaro, Shelby, Challenger, etc there is talk that a new GTO will come out that is made in America and appeals to the aesthetics that Car and Driver stated “gotta have it factor.” In addition, unfortunately, when I realized that the Holden Monaro offers such plain amenities such as heated seats, sunroof, bluetooth, climate control, just to name a few, I was frankly disappointed. (Why is it they offer features in the Australian version not available in the US?)I have seen a few aftermarket places that could put those features in but are not protected by warranty. I wish the GTO for a 30k plus car would have those features too. Those creature comforts almost made me go to an import such as Infiniti which does not disappoint. Nevertheless, the performance is top of the line and the major reason I picked the GTO. Please tell us there will be a new one( GTO) out that is under 40k offers more amenities of a fine sports car? I know that a new look with more features would definitely sell more cars.
Milton Gonzalez
Beautifull car, period. GM has done it again. As a Pontiac Retail Professional though, I have an issue, availability. It doesnt make sense to me that you spend millions and millions of dollars in advertisement and then you send 2 cars a month to every dealership. and then, when production picks up a bit, you announce a GXP model(which is excellent, dont get me wrong, just announced too early) placing every Solstice prospective buyer in hold. That is what happened to the GTO back in ‘04, just when we got enough availability, out came the official announcement of the 6.0 engine and wham! sales froze for the 5.7 hopefully we will get the automatic transmission on the Solstice before this happens again. God Bless American Cars.
Edward hayes
I don’t know what looks better the Pontiac Solstice or GM stock. Anyway I am skipping lunch to save for both.
Now let me get this straight. This is your weakest brand? Well make those 4 door sports cars a la the Porsche Panamera and stick it to your detractors.
A 4 door sports car for the pro-racer division. Smashing.
Just follow the Solstice recipe.
It looks better than a BMW Z3 for the price of a tripped out Scion.
Joe Enke
Looks like a winner, and the price is still not too much. I hear the bay has enough room for a V-8 and that was partially the reason for the excess weight of the Solstice. I would love to see a Nomad version with an LS2 and the WRX AWD.
William Zambrano
This sounds wonderful but you need to know about the problems we are having in South Florida with Solstice sales.
From a GM memo:
“As you sell Solstices this year, please consider more than just the near term,” said the letter signed by John Larson, the general manager of Buick, Pontiac and GMC, and Mark-Hans Richer, Pontiac’s marketing director. “We are at a critical point in Pontiac’s resurgence and encourage a long-term perspective of the total Pontiac opportunity.”
South Florida dealers have ignored your advice. I placed an order April 15, 2005 for a Solstice and was asked by the dealer for $10,000.00 over MSRP. I respectfully declined but a search of other dealers in the Miami-Ft. Lauderdale area shows the best I can do right now is $5000.00 over sticker.
This would have been my fourth Pontiac in seven years. Not the way a loyal customer would like to be treated.
Hopefully GM can iron this problem out before the GXP.
Thanks for a wonderful product!
'HotWheels' Blog
2006 Los Angeles Auto Show — New Camaro, Bugatti Veyron, Audi S8 & Much More!
[To see all our '06 LA Auto Show pics, go to the BTG Motoring Website Gallery, click on "Shows" and then on "LA Auto Show 2006".]
BTG Motoring went to the Greater Los Angeles 2006 Auto Show this week and if we didn’t get many of the latest and…
Bill
Just took a look at your camaro concept.I bleed chevy orange.With that said,I am very dissapointed. Look at the mustang. It stays true to the heart of muscle cars. Its lines,its stance,its old school appeal.The same can be said for the dodge challenger.Take a look,can you feel it? I can.
Jon Chaprnka
I would like to congratulate and thank the designers, engineers, and decision-making top brass at GM. A car like this Soltice GXP has been long time coming and I am glad to see it. As a true performance fan, the roadster GXP, the new Z06, the overlooked GTO and the recent release of a Camaro concept really have me teeming with excitement.
I know the last few years have been rocky, but with these products and other measures, I really think GM is going to pull strong in the nexy few years, despite analysts. The introduction of class leading vehicles like the new two-mode Tahoe and other gas sippers shows that the company has thier heads in the right places.
I too am impacted by the auto market woes, but am gladly willing to make the sacrifices to help this automaker maintain its top rank. I have not been this proud and inspired to work GM since I hired in four years ago. Keep up the good work.
marco
hello i own a 1968 camaro and i was looking to buy a new car this year. beacuse my camaro would brake down alot. as soon as i saw the camaro concept today in the LA Auto show, i new that is the one i would want to buy. i love my camaro and having a new camaro with out all the problems would be great.
Brian
I hope there are still plans to bring out the Coupe version, and the turbo engine in it would be awesome.
The Solstice Coupe would look great in my garage next to the new Camaro, and hopefully there will be a new Sporty 4 door with RWD a manual trans and a V8 with a bowtie on the grill, to fill the last spot.
Jorge
I am glad to see hot GM products — Congratulations on a job well done.
One issue on my mind is how to get those exiting products in front of people. I know your marketing guys are doing the best they can, but here is an idea: How about having a couple of those in each location of a car rental company where customers can rent them for a few days at a promotional price or just surprise customers on a random basis instead of some other cheaper car? (wouldn’t they be glad?)I am not talking about selling them to rental cos because as you know that is not a good business much less for a hot new product. I am talking about using the rental companies as a channel where business travellers can touch and feel your product. There are many other details to think about but I think you have the basic idea. If your product is very hot this may not be needed, or it may be just a good idea for other products.
Steve S
While Asian manufacturers are ramping up production and enjoying the successes of REAL R&D, GM is laying off employees in droves. This is a real life replay of the 1970’s when Detroit tried to sell us what THEY thought we should be driving rather than meeting the REAL demands of what the buying public wants. Once again, you just don’t get it do you. I, personally, call for the resignation or ouster of every decision making bufoon who has allowed this to happen. Yes, that means you too Bob. How much are you making a year drawing silly faces on Chevy trucks and rebadging them as Cadillacs?
MIke Dawson
I really like the standard Solstice and the GXP looks to be that much better. It’s too bad all your efforts to keep the price to affordable levels are being undermined by local Pontiac dealers. Here in New Mexico dealers are charging $1,500 to $4,000 over MSRP for the Solstice, and I’m sure the trend will continue with the GXP. If it weren’t for the price gouging I would have bought one by now. Too bad. I guess I’ll be looking elsewhere.
Lorenzo Patlan
The Solstice GXP was definitely needed. A vehicle like this screams performance and although the Base Solstice wasn’t bad, the option of a performance version was necessary. Pontiac (The Excitement Division) these name is on the road to recovery. Priorities need to be made though. Instead of catching up to the competition, Lead in the competition. Example, what is needed is a G6 Coupe and Sedan GXP model. 290 to 300 horsepower preferably. A vehicle like that would destroy Honda Accord’s, Mitsubishi Eclipse’s and possibly even contend or compete with Nissan 350Z… imagine that! But the best part is that you’re leading the segment and even playing with the Premiums, G35 coupe and sedan… can you imagine a G6 being competition for them, and also the new Lexus IS. These are high caliber vehicles, and I know Pontiac has what it takes to be in this segment. I own a 2004 Pontiac Grand Am SC/T in Fusion Orange, I am one of many 23 - 30 year old potential customers who can afford and want a quality 25K to 40K vehicle. If the G6 coupe was out when I made my decision to buy, I would own one now… and If a G6 GXP with around 290 to 300 hp was to come out, all I’d ask is “where do I sign?”
Greg W.
Ive been wanting to comment on GM and Chevy mostly. I believe I have a good idea about what looks good and what doesnt. I used to think Chevys were the greatest and Ford wasnt,but over the years ive done a 180. I just saw the new dodge challenger and it is awesome how it looks so much like the original and the new mustang is great how it really brings back the old stang and then i saw the camaro concept and thought what were they thinking. Build something people can get excited about, if your going to recreate a classic do it right,details are important. I own a 72 chevelle SS and a 05 F150. The only chevy I think is worthy of the name is the Corvette. The headlights on the trucks are not appealing like the Fords front end.Recreate the 70 Chevelle that would be awesome if it was done right.
greg
I’ve always bought old vettes can’t afford new.but the solstice gxp (yellow) wow will be buying my first new car (im 40) how about a c3 corvette LIKE retro on kappa? keep up work on fuel cells for 2010ish i will buy
Chris Sloan
What a great entry level sports car, and priced right between a Scion tC and 350z. It should really get some takers from both ends.
Bigblau
Bob: thank you for the Solstice. Just what a fun entry level sports car should be. Z package is OK! Just ordered mine on Monday. I have a long wait (9-12 months), but it just adds to the excitement and anticipation factor.
I’m 45 years old and I never thought I’d live to see the day when an American automobile manufacturer would stir up this kind of excitement in me. I’m going to park it next to my 2003 Audi A4 Quattro 3.0L. I was thinking of a TT, but they are way over priced. My Audi salesperson is going to break his jaw when it hits the ground -ha..ha..ha.
Thanks again Bob. We need you to keep up the fight in corporate office.
EUcitizen
Since you are planning on sharing this beautiful car with the EU in the form of upcoming Opel GT why not shipping abroad the real thing?
I can see this turning into a big success and true MX-5 rival.
What can I say, we all old Europeans love classic curves.
valentine bonnaire
I like this car very much. I don’t know anything about Pontiacs per se, but it “looks” fab! it seems Italian?–but I like the fact that it is made in the US, and is an American car!
My last sportscar was an MGA. I still have it. I may buy one of these too. I can see my character The Velvet Babe in one!
Hmmm….what color though? That red is too bright! Champagne? would be nice, or a blackish red metallic that isn’t so aggressive–like a darker valentine red.
Yes, this appeals to the tail end baby boom femme, very doubleplus!
Pat
The Solstice is a FANTASTIC car….you have to fall in Love with the looks of it as well as the price is so attractive….
My question to you….what are the new colors availabe in the 2007 models?? Yellow??
Kindly Regards,
P.L
J. A. RESTO
Fabulous Mr. Lutz!!!
BIG
Can I say, GM is on target with the return back to power. I too was impressed by the roominess of the Soltice. I am 6′2″ and 320 Lbs. As I got into it at the Chicago Auto Show, my wife overheard the guy behind me say, I have no worries, if that guy makes it in and out of there I will have no problem at all.
Not only did I get in and out, but I can not wait till the new GXP is out. As a REALTOR, and family man it is not a practical purchase, but at 44, it is time not to be practical. I am not getting any younger, and the SOLTICE gets my heart pumping loudly, just from seeing it stand still can’t wait to drive it.
I am already planning on driving it to Disney with my 11 year old next Christmas. I really can’t wait, A-N-T-C-P-A-T-I-O-N!!! GM making me wait…
J. A. RESTO
Bob, since obviously you are the man that listens, and makes changes. Can you talk to the engineers and change that aweful seatbelt system on the GM SUV. I rented the GMC ENVOY, while on this last Disney Vacation in August. Loved the feel, loved the OnStar, absolutely hated the seatbelts. Remember I am the BIG Guy, and those belts almost did not make it around me, and because they came over the left shoulder I felt it was pulling me left all the way. Very awkward. My wife is only 5′2″, it wrapped around her neck, so it is bad for people to BIG, or too small. Not good for the market, for out SUV, this issue is pushing us over to FORD, and I hate that!!! Would love to see optional seat belts on the TRAILBLAZER ext or GMC ENVOY..
Wes
Bob,
The Solstice is the first car to tempt me to buy American in over 15 years.
My central issue with US automakers has always been long term quality and dependability. I want to buy a car to DRIVE it, not have to pay (in terms of time, money, and aggravation) to have it sit in repair shops for numerous problems that should have been addressed by either better engineering, better workmanship, or both. Case in point: My 2003 Honda Civic has approx 65,000 miles on it and not once has it needed to visit the shop for other than routine maintenance or normal wear and tear repairs. In 37 years of driving I’ve NEVER had that sort of experience with ANY of the US cars I’ve owned.
It’s easy for you to talk about GM’s allegedly new, better quality autos, but please remember that an auto purchase is a big ticket item for me. Do I bet my family’s hard earned money on brands with proven long term track records in quality and dependability (Honda & Toyota), or do I take a chance on an American brand with a very uneven (at best) record? Tempting styling, competitive pricing, and good non-partisan reviews might eventually get me over that significant hesitation — once. But if the only thing $25,000+ buys me is a good looking car with endless mechanical/quality problems, you will have confirmed my lingering suspicion that GM’s new commitment to quality has only filtered down to the advertising department.
Don
Bob,
I love the Solstice. We have one on order. When can we expect a removable hardtop for the Solstice? Please build the Sting Ray on the Kappa platform. Us regular folks would like a reasonably priced performance convertible under the Chevrolet badge. The SSR was great but way over priced. The HHR is super. I see three markets for this vehicle. First, the under 28 “tuner type” market, second the over 45 retro market (upgraded & with a V6 for horsepower and finally the small fleet, mom & pop type service market. Offer it in a no frills basic design with various configurations. I.E. no back glass, rear doors that open like the ‘49 Suburban, design built in work bins in the sides, that type of thing. Thanks for bringing back style to the General.
Dennis R.Simon
Let’s face it the worst thing to happen to Pontiac was to share Solstice production.It’s the hottest thing out of Pontiac in years and for once not a rebagged clone. Unlike the cheaply comprized Fiero that only sold 100,000 copies the first two years the Solstice was done wright. GOD only knows how many Solstices could be sold? GM has screwed Pontiac again,having to share their best image booster, limiting their income ability as well as the right to have something that’s a Pontiac exclusive. Chevy, who gets everything, now wants it’s version. Screw Chevy! The Pie has already been sliced too thin! To those who want a Nomad, Let it be a Solstice Safari. Pontiac gets a tool to rejuvenate itself and they end up getting shafted out of their own project. This is the truth! Those People saying Pontiac should be shut down like Olds are narrow minded and don’t see the calculated castration that’s being done to Pontiac. Pontiac should convert the Fiero plant over to Solstice Production and have Independent control over the Kappa chassis and the ability to “Skunk Works” special Solstice Vehicles.
Christian Aviles
Not bad, honeycomb grill around fog lights should be deleted, just leave an inlet there. Would be much more elegant.
howard
i think the way they sell these cars (the vehicle catalog) should change to how they used to do it.
back then,…. a guy who wanted something more could choose the performance options right down the list.
now,… they lay out what they think the public wants and that is pretty much it.
give us some choices and i do believe Detroit will sell more cars/trucks/whatever.
Mike Malik
Bob,
As a current Solstice owner who would really love to add a GXP to the household can you do anything to fix what looks to us consumers like a broken allocation system. Short of that here is my VOMS number and would love to have the GXP for my birthday in October. Thanks for building a great car!
Mike
GXP on order - KHZWQR - Mean Darkside loaded wo On-Star
pauljs75
The new Solstice is sweet, but with college to pay off and a so-so job I’m still out of the market for it. (I’ll be happy when my current car is paid for.) But the Solstice does catch my interest. It’s probably something long overdue with a good bang for the buck ratio…
As for keeping your market? It’s not necessarily the new cars. (Although better build quality does help. However, the competition is doing this too.) What keeps people coming back is quality service. You may want to keep better tabs on dealership centers in this regard, as this can make or break return business. Push harder here and an improved reputation can win new business and bring back folks who had left for other makes. (The dealership here is pretty good btw. But their Telebanc checking service needs to go! Customers don’t like being turned down when they do have the means.)
Also I have to commend you on Buick “stealthily” staying in the top 10 (maybe even 5) on build quality. But perhaps they need to share that knowhow with the other divisions, so that fit and finish will improve. Not many squeaks and rattles in my ‘01 Pontiac, but the switches and knobs seem to be getting a little loose/problematic.