The Wonderful World of Oz

Holden does produce a great vehicle. It's funny because several years ago an "insider" said that when the GTO came over it would be riddled with quality issues due to Holdens "less than stellar track record at home."

Way to be off the mark.

While Holden has many great things here, one request is to NOT bring the sport wagon stateside, at least not as Pontiac. Being an avid enthusiast of Pontiac (all I've ever owned) I don't see a G8 "Sport Wagon" fitting into the line-up, especially with Kappa II and Alpha being sporty vehicles.

Instead, the Ute should be over here as soon as possible. Under the new B-P-GMC groupings, the Ute makes perfect sense as a GMC to compliment the Pontiac G8.

All I ask is please....no Pontiac "sport wagon."

Sincerely,

The committee.
Just joking!

I, for one, can see a tangible change in the appeal of GM cars and trucks. While the fighting ingrained biases towards NA autos may prevent GM from realizing its full sales potential, I get the impression that the tide has turned.

I see it in cars like the Solstice, the CTS, and the Enclave. Funny enough, of all the newer and upcoming cars it is the Camaro that I am least impressed with.

Perhaps when I saw the concept up high on a podium, it exaggerated its visually heavy bottom. My first car was a 69 Camaro, which I bought in 1984. There was always something truly special about the 69 body design. After I painted the car Green Mist Metallic (a very pale green metallic from 1972 Corvette's) the true beauty of the body style was apparent. After painting the car, the amount of compliments it received was so great as to nearly become a nuisance. To this day I think that some of the ornamentation and paint schemes obscured what was truly a masterpiece. I hope that the new Camaro can follow in its footsteps.

Hey Bob,
Thanks for sharing your trip with us. I have to say that as a car nut, I'm rather envious of your position!

I'm sure the Camaro will be an instant hit, especially if it will posses the level of finesse that you mentioned it will.

At the same time, I will probably not be in the market for such a car. This makes me think that you should hear what the perspective is of some of your younger consumers and the reasons why we are not as likely to be purchasing cars such as Cameros and Cadillacs. By understanding this, you might get an insite as to the types of cars that we would like to see and get stoked about.

I'm 30 years old and live in California. I do well for myself professionally. The problem is that inflation mainly in the form of housing puts a damper on my spending habits.In essence, housing in many urban areas is entirely unaffordable- especially in CA.

While I do rent and save, the inevitability of purchasing a home someday has me in a somewhat protective financial situation. What I mean by this is that my views on certain things like cars, electronics, and other consumer goods makes me view them in a more utilitarian, practical, and necessary light. A car like a Camero or Cadillac seem like a somewhat unnecessary luxury in regards to my priorities.In other words, cars take a somewhat distant back seat due to the aforementioned financial concerns. Quite different from say- a 55 year old who might be more likely to have a comfortable amount of disposable cash and be living under a owned roof.

The types of cars I like are smaller, efficient, and practical. At the same time, I'm not a fan of such ugly bubbly cars like the Yaris, Aveo, Fit, or the myriad assortment of Korean cars.

I do find cars like the concepts shown a few months back- aka- the Triplets- as very appealing. I would also find smaller utilitarian trucks appetizing along with small station wagons, hatchbacks, and other vehicles that deliver great style, usability, and value. We're talking cars in the under 20k range.

What I'm getting at is that we who reside in this age bracket represent your new generation of buyers. As mentioned, the forces of inflation weighs very heavily on our minds. We do not view consumer goods in the same way as people just a short 5 years ago. In other words, we're in a mind to be cautious and I think rightfully so.

Perhaps it is people like us who do not get heard as often for things like understanding rapidly changing consumer tastes and how that the forces of economics weighs heavily within that picture. But I'm here to let you know how many of us currently view the economic situation.

Thus with that said, perhaps it gives you a better idea of the types of cars that we're hungry for.

"We sampled G8s in various states of tune"

I like the sound of that... And just in case you had forgotten, we want a Firebird Trans Am. No 4 door this or Camaro that will fill that void.

Now that's an exciting article!

I still consider the 2010(!?!?!) Camaro to be two years late, and I still can't believe it is taking this long to produce the darn thing, so it had better be ridiculously fantastic when it comes out, not just in terms of performance, but also in quality, interior materials standards, etc.

My favorite sentence in the whole thing was "And we also drove...'other things in the rear drive hopper.'"

I understand you can't say more than that right now, so I won't ask (perhaps something at the Detroit or LA auto shows?) but that excites me to think of what that could possibly mean. I hope they come to the US, whatever they are. Long live Holden, GM's savior!

Bob,

I am glad to hear the RWD GMs are on their way. By the time they are out, I will be in the market for a new car. I hope GM listens to its customers and makes the new RWDs worth considering.

Personally I am worried that GM will not provide the options someone like myself is looking for. For example: I recently rented a 2008 Grand Prix, it was a blast to drive. But I hesitate to say I'd buy one. Not because it isn't a great car, but rather because it falls short in a few catagories (mainly interior appointments and comfort). I found the seats a bit uncomfortable and lacking adjustment that helped. Also the radio stack and arm rest were positioned in such a way that when I rested my leg against it it was uncomfortable. I have to say my current GM does not have such problems as that area is wider. I hope the newer cars don't feel cramped for space like many cars I have been in.

One thing I really liked about the GP that I saw at the dealers is the optional HUD. I haven't heard of such options for the G8, or any other GMs for that matter. The stock GP driver information center lacked an MPG readout, but had everything else but (including tire pressure, two millage readouts etc..)... what's up with that. Is that a premium option? If so why isnt it standard?

It is my hope that GM considers moving some of their options accross their brands. Why can't I get the HUD in more cars? Why is pontiac the only one that offers a Manual transmission in their midsize car (G6) why cant' Saturn and Chevy?

Even little things like the ambient LED lighting in the HHR that I recently drove would be nice to see in all the GM cars. I hope the interior designers add these small niceties that really make various parts of the driving experience better. Its just a shame they aren't all in one car or at least options in all their cars.

Personally I'm hoping to see a new RWD Buick. Since what I want is the comfort of a buick with the fun and performance of a Pontiac without the squared off styling of the Caddy.

I'm glad to see GM has come a long way since my last vehicle made in the mid 90's. I'm actualy giving GM a serious thought. I just am concerned that GM will prevent each of their brands from really doing well with options and features. I get quite annoyed when I look through options on GMs web site (specifically the G8) and notice that clicking to upgrade something like say a stereo or sun roof removes other options. What is with that... why can't a Fully loaded G8 be configured? Or for that matter why are there option packages? Another one that annoys me is that certain interior colors are only available with certain exterior colors.

As a last remark I hope GM hits the mark on the new RWDs, and delivers a few new cars (hopefully a Buick, or at least a G8 thats almost Buick worthy).

I do have an idea for GM on making Automatics even more fun to drive. I hope someone from your team contacts me about it. I'd be delighted to see the idea make it into new GMs.

Thanks

Great to hear that the Camaro is progressing nicely - can't wait to see the final product!

I couldn't disagree more with Mr. Oliver's comment above urging you not to bring over the Commodore Wagon as a G8. I think if Pontiac truly wants to compete as a performance brand, it should offer performance vehicles for all needs and niches (a la BMW, albeit at a less expensive price). The sportwagon is one such niche that could be well-filled by a G8 wagon. Offer it in comparable trim to the sedan, including a manual transmission, 19" wheels and a limited-slip differential on the GT, and people like me who want utility and performance in one vehicle will open their checkbooks.

Holden's flexible manufacturing capacity seemingly make this a relatively easy business decision, and Mr. Oliver is free to choose the sedan instead.

Keep up the good work mate!

One other thing I'm concerned about is the weight on the upcoming G8 and other similar cars. At nearly 4000 Lbs it is heavy compared to some of the other GM cars. This also means that the power to weight ratio isnt' that great compared to other cars. The engineer in my has to ask why so heavy GM? Why not a reasonable 3200 lbs? or even 3400 lbs? How much fuel is that extra 600 to 800 lbs going to cost me over the life of the vehicle?

We've got our budget on a glide-slope for a 2011 Camaro Z-28. It'll sit very nicely in the driveway next to my wife's Mustang GT. I hope that upgrade packages like the Z-28 don't include a "muted rumble from the big V-8." It's not supposed to sound like a Salon deVille. Might need Flowmasters, right off the lot. The Mustang did. We will see.

Well I think GM needs to get its head out of Oz and other places.

I just went through the G8 information on the Pontiac website. I have to really wonder about some of the things. GM where is your brain? You make a beautiful car and forget to finish it (as normal).

Where is the Navigation option (the Holdens have it why not add it to the G8). Where is the HUD (the GP has it). Where is the LED ambience always on lighting (the HHR has it). Where is the rear AC vents.... that stuff should be at least optional. How about Passenger Power Seats?
How about heated seats?
How about rear cup holders?
How about the USB charge ports for MP3 Players?
How about 2 12V power plugs (cigarette style)
How about a video input to the Multi Function Screen?
How about an iPod interface so you can control your ipod from the stereo.
How about AC power (like the new Malibu).

How about offering those options so those who want them can get them and those who want a stripped down model can get that too. I like to think that GM knows what its customers might want.. but its hard to see it.

Also I think the Holden Sports wagon looks cool.. bring it over let your customers decide what they like and don't like. It is a very sophisticated looking car on the outside. How hard is it to bring it to the US?
How about some pictures that show the whole car and the interior rather then just small bits of it. Yeah it looks cool but show more of the car it looks like those things are all thats cool about it.

First I have to disagree with Hoodshaker: please no Trans Am. Having two mostly identical versions of the exact same car just wastes marketing and engineering dollars and dilutes the market share and sales numbers. Want a midsize RWD coupe? Buy a Camaro. Simple enough. What purpose would the Trans-Am serve.

I also have to disagree with Nate. It makes sense for Pontiac to be the only one to put a manual tranny on a FWD mid-sizer. They are the excitement division, or are supposed to be. Want a my exciting family sedan? Buy the Pontiac. Again, simple enough.

To disagree with Nate on options: packages are a more efficient way of doing things. I used to work in ordering and inventory at a Toyota dealership, and having most of the options in packages made life soooo much better. One of the reasons Toyota may have better dealership relations. Also, with packages it is easier for the customer to know what types of configurations they can expect to find on the lots, because most don't want to special order. Finally, it has to be more efficient for GM, because they don't have to throw together as many combinations. So keep some options as stand-alone, but packages are good things too.

Getting back to Pontiac, if you really want to make it your excitement division, concentrate your non-luxary RWD offerings there (except the Camaro and Corvette of course, just for heritage reasons), along with maybe a very sporty FWD car. The G6 simply doesn't make much sense, because if I wanted a traditional midsize FWD I could just get a Malibu or Aura, very fine cars. However, if I wanted a fast midsize RWD car that handled well, a real dedicated driver's car, I'd go to Pontiac. Now that is brand distinction. Chevy for the average consumers, Saturn for the people who want something traditional, but European, with a great dealer network, Pontiac for the car nuts, Buick for the comfort crowd, Cadillac for the high end luxury market, Saab for Saab drivers (there's no other way of putting it) and Hummer for the outdoor adventure folks.

I urge you to bring the VE Sportwagon to the US as soon as possible. It would make an excellent "G8 Safari"!

Such a vehicle is exactly what I've been waiting for. It would be first product in ages that could replace my 13-year-old Buick wagon.

Wow sounds great. Maybe you should just bring that team over here. That way all these American icons such as the Seville and Camaro will actually be, you know... American >8|

Bob,

One more thing. Please keep us updated (where you can) about Camaros updates. Id love to know how it handled when you finally got behind that wheel!

Bob,

Thank you very much for the "update" on the coming Camaro; just reading your description of the prototype made my day. I am crazy about the new Camaro, at least from the concept model that I saw at the car show. I can't wait to see the finished product. Hopefully, it will not be a disappointment. I am saving up right now and plan on buying the high-end V8 model (Z28, SS?) in 2009.

One thing I'd like to bring up though, the interior in the concept car was less than desirable for my taste. The gauges were hard to read, the placement of the fuel gauge in the lower center stack will be a safety hazard (keeping eyes on the road issue), and the dash board seemed a bit plain. I hope the production car gets a real dash board with standard gauges like the new Malibu or Aura. A two tone interior as an option will be awesome. A nice stereo system (Bose, Blaupunkt, Pioneer, or Rockford Fosgate) with blue tooth capability will be a nice touch, too. Lastly, HID should be made as an option as well. So, here is my wish list for the new Camaro. I'd like to hear from others of what they would like to see (standard/options) in the production car.

Steve

Hi Bob,

Great to hear more news about my beloved Camaro. Keep up with the updates as often as your time and competitive advantages (you know what I mean) permit.

One thing I would like to request, and it's a small thing..... Could you PLEASE use those sinister looking halos on the headlamps? You know, the halos on the Camaro concept that make it look evil as hell! I don't care if people think it's a rip off of BMW, halos for parking lamps perfect the front end design and should definitely be carried over to production from the concept.

Steve, if you have to constantly look down at your fuel gauge to the point where it becomes a hazard, you have bigger problems to worry about, namely an apparent leak in your fuel system. Putting it down on the council allows it to be glanced at at a stoplight, or even for a second or two while cruising, and takes it out of the way of more important things on the dash, like the tach, speedo, and idiot lights.

Mr Lutz:
You said in this article that there are "other things in the rear wheel drive hopper". I am looking forward to the next generation Pontiac GTO. Hopefully this is one of the models you have lined up and we will see this at the North American Auto Show this year in Detroit. Pontiac desperately needs an excellent halo car to help revive this division. Please make it all the iconic name embodies - great styling and awesome performance. I await your response at the auto show in January.

Hi Bob,

I have been posting on here for 3 years. My last car was a 93 Grand Am SE coupe with the base 4. I got 160k miles out of her with little problems. When my wife and I moved to Asia in 2005, we sold her to my great sadness.

In Asia, esp China, I saw great GM cars, esp the Buicks LaCrosse and new Park Ave. On just coming back to the states, I am so happy to say I am the proud owner of a 2007 G6 GTP Sedan (Thanks Tod at Wright Auto in Pittsburgh for great service). All I can say is 'wow'.

When I first test drove the 05 G6, I couldnt believe that interior was more liked a warmed up Grand Am. Not now. You made the changes needed. The GTP's tan leather is beautiful, so is the steering wheel. And when I drove her, I realized this car was on par with any import. I see the good reviews, comparing it favorably against the Altima and Camry. But for me, I think she is comparable to an Acura TL, and a notch below the Infiniti G35 (the G is RWD, what you going to do). Here in New York City, I have had great compliments on her. A city that has lots of BMWs and M-Bs, its a good good thing to see that. I wish you would have kept the GTP line with the GXP...or have brought back the STE badge for us Euro-style lovers.

I truly believe the 'New' GM is here. I think the next Malibu is a world-beater, and will give a beautiful new Accord a serious run for the money. The CTS is great and very American, and hearing about these Alpha and Gamma platforms is great.

All I want to say is thank you to the designers and engineers and guys on the line making world class products again. I hope to get a test drive in a G8 soon.

Eric Planey

Pontiac without a sports car like Fiero or Trans Am is like GMC without a pick-up.

When I was growing up my brother had a used Camaro and several months later my sister had a brand new Firebird. Let me tell you, these cars were distinct and had very different personalities and did appeal to two very different people. And my now brother-in-law road up in a Fiero and wooed my other sister. Nothing can substitute for a Fiero, nor can a Camaro substitute for a Trans Am - whether GM chooses to build it or not is besides the point, it is up to them but this is just a fact. You just can't put an eagle on the hood of a Camaro and woo the Trans Am crowd.

Till this day my brother is a Camaro fan who is one of those that can't believe his car is coming out again. For my sister and I or anyone else that has enjoyed the beauty of the Pontiac heritage and legacy in the Firebird and Fiero to which there is no substitute I salute the awesome execution of what will be the greatest sports car in its price range probably in history.

But what can I say, I can't go back and change my mind now about my love for the Firebird. It was shaped in my youth and honed in later years.

In other words, I can't change my mind while now what are you telling me - I married the wrong girl?

Oh, and by the way take my advice Ed, you make a heritage high roof Buick and you will be hugging Buick sedans too.

Trust me, BMW knows about the high roof phenomenon and its is spreading to all vehicle lines.

And all of us need to get this corrupt thinking our of our heads that Buick must be second best, cheaper, don't mess with the Cadillac crest, don't take jewels from her crown and be just a clown second best luxury after thought car brand.

Just like Chevrolet is value but has the Corvette, just like Hummer H1 & H2 did not steel the Escalades's thunder. So too Buick must stand for not second from the top but what Lutz calls the "hopper" for the finest family sedans in existence. The #1 brand for the family sedan. Let it take on the likes of every family vehicle from Bentley to the Mercedes S class to the Camry to the Taurus and let the consumers know that THIS brand is the one brand in the industry that had the family in mind from the start. And we can start with more room.

We need to establish a GM brand right in the heart of its weakest segment and it needs to do it with a focus not on this brand being second but being #1 in the family segment while Cadillac of course continues to pursue the highest standards of performance and handling in the world.

To get Buick started on the road not so much to recovery any more but to excellence, the high roof is a good place to start, then as GM gets its confidence back and learns to be brave again then Buick can evolve into the FJ Efigy type design leader that it once was.

I am telling you, because if this process is started now, then you can retire one day and be able to say, "As we leave GM they are making the finest car designs in their history!"

Understand, I want Ed, Rick and Bob to finish on top. You deserve it.

Thanks Bob,
For the comments about the camaro and the future global RWD vehicles. I really feel the tide is turning towards the American Car manufacturers favor (mainly GM). While Toyota and the other Japanese car manufacturers are going back to there cultural roots on making more zenlike concepts at the Tokyo Auto Show (comical). We (American car industry) especially GM is starting to bring to market what people desire.

Keep up the great work on allowing your diverse engineers and designers to do their best work.

Make sure the alpha sedan put the competition in their place. Fighting over second.

Should the 2008 G8 GT (maybe future GXP) be my next car or the 2010 Camaro SS. What a Great dilemma to have!!! Thankssssss for making these cars a reality.

P.S. I hope the Buick Enclave/Chevy Tahoe Hybrid & Cadillac CTS/Chevy Malibu sweep the NA Car & Truck of the year awards in 2008. (And therefore, slowly chipping away at the negative perceptions of GM)

Mr Lutz said: "I have never experienced an automotive company, including my three years at BMW, that has so much passion for excellence and dedication to the product."

Mr Lutz,

With all respect, I find that a fascinating statement.

Holden is a subsidiary of GM. How then can Holden have a "...passion for excellence and dedication to the product." that you have never experienced before, even when at BMW? Even I must assume at GM HQ?

Mr Wagoner and you -- as GM's senior executives -- are responsible for setting the tone and atmosphere for all of GM. By admitting that Holden is better than anything you have experienced before, aren't you alluding that senior leadership hasn't set the proper tone for GM North America?

If Holden is so much better, shouldn't you be taking steps to find out what is "in the water" in Oz and making sure the rest of GM gets the same?

Respectfully,

Gary Dikkers

Nice post Mr. Lutz, but, I really hope you have the engineers working on a hybrid system for the camaro along the same lines as in the upcoming tahoe/denali hybrid.

Also, how about adding a G8sportswagon as well (with similar hybrid system).

Thanks

Bob,
Good to see you on the blog again talking about future cars! I am envious of your job! I have to agree with some of the previous bloggers with regards to equipment on the G8. As a current owner of a 2004 Bonneville GXP and future owner of a G8 GT (GXP?), I would very much like to see such things as HUD, 12 way power seats on both front seats, rear heat/cooling ducts, Homelink, self-leveling rear suspension, heated exterior mirrors, self-dimming interior rearview mirror, and rear seat pass through. Admittedly, some of these could be added as standard on a G8 GXP model. But without any true build pages in the Pontiac web site, it is hard to tell exactly what is available in the way of options. Maybe you could show us a G8 GXP at the upcoming LA Auto Show and put all our minds at ease! Here's hoping!

What is the GM USA engineering force in charge of, now that all RWD cars (zeta, alpha) are going to be engineered down under, FWD cars in Germany, Small ones in Korea? The same lousy American-only Pick-up trucks? Come on, I know American engineering can perform international work, not only for local consumption. And then you start asking why people do not like american cars? What a shame

Nate

Built in nav systems actually lower your resale value, don't offer anything the better stand alone units don't, and cost thousands versus hundreds of dollars for the stand-alone units. Whats more, you can take one of those from car to car if you switch. Built in nav is highly overrated.

As for those other things you mentioned, I imagine most would be standard. The G8 site is pretty content light right now, so the list is not comprehensive. It just includes the highlights that make the car exciting. It is assumed it will have rear cupholders, as even my cobalt does, and you know that Americans could never buy a car that didn't have 5 cupholders for every passenger. Unfortunately leather seating is pretty much always bundled with heated seats now, so fear not. I'm sure all of the things you mentioned will be there to weigh the car down further. Its the American way.

Bob,

Why the hood scoops on the G-8?? The Holden hood is much cleaner and less "Boy Racer"... I think they will keep some people away from an otherwise great car.

The mere prospect of the new Camaro makes me giddy...The decision between the Camaro or a new 9-3 255hp Aero will be a supremely difficult one...

A great problem to have, don't get me wrong.

Mr. Lutz, I think a new San Cristobal robusto is in order.

Tyler

I see your points about packages, I agree it is more efficient, and many of the options could be offered in packages. The point I was making i that there is a lack of packages and a lack of options IN those packages. As a younger slightly tech savvy buyer I want many of the options listed especially if GM only makes the RWD in a Pontiac. And that is precisely the problem I see with GM right now. They have all these brands, great meet a bunch of different tastes... but it does nothing to really provide customers what they want, which is choice.

Even making options dealer install only at least gives customers options. As far as ease of management at dealers.... well I suggest the dealers get with it. If it takes a bit more work to sell more cars oh well thats the name of the game. It doesn't have to be that way, but as someone who in a year is considering putting down up to $30,000.00 for a car, I think the dealers can deal with the extra work. Though if GM managed their option groups better and had a more efficient way to order things perhaps you wouldn't have that complaint. As a potential customer the things I listed are things I look for in a car. You and I don't have to agree or even buy/like the same car but your interest in a bare bones car should be just as important as my interest in a fully loaded car, regardless of effort for the dealer. Again have the options see what works. Alot of people don't know they like things until they've used them. That was the case for the HHR, which has this inexpensive LED light thats always on.... it was a little touch that added a lot of nicety to night driving and map reading.

As I stated previously its not just about the options but also about the consistency of the options. Many options GM should have as GM brand options. So I can get them no matter what car I want. It is similar to the Flex Fuel that GM has. Its not just a Chevy or Pontiac option, its available on many of their cars and makes GM a better brand. And that IS the whole point of options, to draw customers in. I don't see how more options is a bad thing. GM has to get the customer what they want, then customers will buy more of their cars.

Another option is to have a few standard option packages, and a list of upgrade items that can be used with any package. The point is to give customers options without saying you can't get X option unless you get Y package. Its a great way to up-sell but it has the potential to scare customers away. It is far easier to have a bunch of independent options then packages for the customers. Do both, it CAN be done. Allow customers to split up a package. Thats another point if GM wanted to they could, but they don't want to... so I look else where.

As far as the manul transmissions go... in the RWD segment GM is competing with a number of other companies who make performance oriented cars with luxuary interiors. I guess if I didn't dislike the exterior CTS styling so much that would be the route to go. But again. I see no reason when platforms are what they are not to offer the manuals in the whole line. It would be extremely narrow minded and short sighted (which I think GM is right now) to think that only performance drivers want manuals etc... I'm sure there are plenty of people who would want a Manual in a G6, Saturn or Malibu. To think other wise in my opinion is foolish. Sure they won't sell as many but if it sells a car it sells a car, it shouldn't matter quite so much what the numbers say initially. The fact is the platform offers a manual, therefore most likely all thats required is some interior panels, some wiring, and some service manual updates and a bit of training, asside from the production line modification. GM would be stupid to NOT offer a manual on the Malibu and Saturn. They offer them on the Cobalt and the G5, why is that? People buy both with manuals. This is an example of the point I'm trying to make... The Cobalt and G5 are two cars on the same platform that only differy by apperance packages (exterior and interior). And that is why people buy one over the other, because some people prefer the looks of one over the other. Its the SAME reason there are 3 cars built on the G6 platform. They are mechanically nearly identical, but people like different options and looks. (note that word options... it seems to be a theme).

I see no reason to not offer a G8 as a Buick with all the luxuary interior items. After all Chevy, Pontiac, Buick, and Caddillac all offer performance versions of each of their cars (with a few exceptions). So obviously performance is not just for Pontiac. If that were the case why put a Northstar in a Buick?

If GM wants to make Pontiac a performance brand then they need to restructure all the brands and move all the performance vehicles to pontiac etc... Imagine a Pontiac Camaro, kinda ridiculous. And put all the performance luxury to Cadillac and all the luxury to Buick. Move all the cheap cars to Saturn, All the trucks to GMC, and then AX Chevy. Then they'd have to move the Corvette to Cadillac. So Tyler are you sure about the Pontiac offering the only performance car?

Which brings me to another point. What Tyler has suggested is that Pontiac be performance only, great... Guess Chevy can't make the Camaro then huh?.... The whole suggestion Tyler made serves no marketing value to the customers. Give the customers the OPTIONS and let them pick what they like, GM will be a better brand as a whole for it. And it will be more cost effective. I'm talking radio options, HUD options, HVAC options (optional rear vents etc..), optional Nav systems. The point is options that are spread accross the brand aren't that hard to implement because the cost is spread out and the work only gets done once. I'm not saying however to make every GM platform car look the same inside and out. I'm saying make the options consistent among cars. For example every GM should have the option for a Nav system, and the option for 120 volt power, and USB ports for powering MP3 players. Those are easy to implement options that can be put into ANY of the interiors GM has. And those are just a few I can think of right this second.

As for Performance of the G8, I'd like to think that the G8 is a real drivers car, but I know better. at 4000 lbs, it can and will get its doors blown off by a few other cars in its class (GM prove me wrong on this one). That doesn't change the fact that I'm looking at the G8s. I want a reasonably sporty car with a nice interior, quite ride and a decent 0-60 time... and for that I can look at almost any brand out there. I just happen to (foolishly) like GM over other cars. Tyler I encourage you to run the numbers on the G8, it will be a competitive car but certainly not as much a drivers car as some other cars. But I don't think thats the real reason any of us like the G8. I think its a matter of looks and features... And both of them require giving the consumer options... whether it is a Saturn Aura with a Malibu looking interior or a G8 done up by Buick's best... Options, accessories and looks are what sell a GM vs some other brand. I hope GM hears this.

200,000 miles!
OK, this has nothing to do with Holdens or Australia, but I just had to find somewhere to share with GM that my great 1996 Chevy Suburban (Jane) just rolled over 200,000 miles last night! And is still going strong. I have taken a lot of flack for driving a Suburban still -- with gas environmental issues and the price of gas, but I love my Suburban! I have lots of stories about her and could go on a bit... I won't, but I will say her name is Jane because there is a sticker insid the driver door that said she is from Janesville, WI.

Bob,

Thanks. My only suggestion would be to lose the hood scoops on the hood of the G8. It is too much like the old Grand Am - too "tarted up".

Removal of the hood scoops = more visual sophistication.

Just my opinion.

Thanks,
Chris (Toronto)

Do a RWD Buick, Bob. It will sell better than most folks would believe, especially if the team responsible for the Enclave is turned loose on it. Call a V-8 version the Wildcat? I'd also love to see a return of the Riviera, a V-8 RWD luxury coupe as opposed to the boy racer Camaro. Something for us more mature folks. I'm aware that the "Rivi" would be little more than a niche vehicle, and probably not economically feasible at an "affordable" price. But a guy can dream, can't he? I'll be holding on to my '97 supercharged Rivi till I'm cold in the ground.

Steve, if you have to constantly look down at your fuel gauge to the point where it becomes a hazard, you have bigger problems to worry about, namely an apparent leak in your fuel system. Putting it down on the council allows it to be glanced at at a stoplight, or even for a second or two while cruising, and takes it out of the way of more important things on the dash, like the tach, speedo, and idiot lights.

Posted by: Tyler on October 11, 2007 7:05 PM

According to the NHTSA, most accidents happened when drivers are distracted momentarily. The fact that a quick glance at the fuel gauge may not take long, but things happen fast when you are traveling 65 mph (that's 95.33 fps) down a highway. This means the second or two that you are glancing at the fuel gauge; you would have traveled 95.33 feet or worse, 190.66 feet. I am sure I am not the only person who glances at my fuel gauge while I am driving. The engineers and designers put the fuel gauge where it is today for a good reason. If you think other idiot gauges and lights don't belong on the dash, which is rightfully where they should be; then why don't all the automobile manufacturers just put them by the foot pedals, so you can glance at them all you want when you are at a stoplight.

On a separate subject, I forgot to mention one thing on my previous wish list. The black plastic grille up front looks a bit cheap and plain, maybe a different design or material should be considered.
Ditto on Joe D. and Nate's posts; the halos on the headlamps do look righteous, and the more options there are, the better we can customize the car to fit ourselves. That's why they are called "options".

Thanks for the response Nate. A few things I want to clarify:

One, it is easy to sell an entry level compact with a manual tranny mainly because it is cheaper and many people buying that car are trying to save as much as possible, or they might be going for the whole sport compact thing. With mid-size family haulers, very few of those buyers want a manual transmission. You may want one, but you are one of the very few. For the most part, manual-transmission midsizers sit on the lot for a very, very long time until someone like you comes by and buys it, and since dealers have to pay when a car sits on the lot for a while, they don't like that at all.

I also don't see the need for tons of luxury on a Pontiac. They're supposed to be for affordable thrills. I can see some conveniences and cool gizmos, but for true luxury performance go Cadillac.

Concerning Chevy performance cars: The Corvette and Camaro should stay with Chevy for heritage reasons. Many people buy them just for that reason anyway, because the Chevy Camaro and Corvette are just classic. So they should stay, as it makes sense from a sales standpoint. Otherwise all other non-luxury performance cars should go to Pontiac. Also concerning the Trans-Am; it used to be a legitimately distinct car from the Camaro, with a different powertrain and suspension setup, but at the end the Camaro and Trans-Am were essentially the same car with different bodies. I'd support a Trans-Am built on the Camaro platform only if it was sufficiently distinct from the Camaro, meaning more than just styling changes. Make solid, meaningful changes to the engine, suspension, and other dynamic elements.

As far as the options list on the G8, I see your point to an extent, so just wait until the final official list comes out for the G8. I will say that having every option GM offers on every car and having everything be available as a stand-alone would be beyond cost-prohibitive and would drive the dealers and factories nuts. This is a mainstream car company, not Maybach.

Sorry Bob, but the Camaro is irrelevant in today's market. With $3/gallon gasoline, not many people have any use for a two-door, V8 coupe that will get less than 20 mpg in the city.

It is a luxury we can't afford anymore.

Oh, I just saw pictures of the Holden Sportwagon, and I want to voice my vote for bringing it here too.

Also, please please please please please bring over the Holden HSV Maloo R8 Ute. Please again. Thank you. I'd buy one without a second thought. Can you say ultimate weekend mobile? Ikea on Saturday, racetrack on Sunday (after spending Saturday night assembling Ikea merchandise.)

How u doing, Bob? You didnt tell us about working for BMW!
The Germans have long triumphed against the Japanese thru "Premium Power"
by differentiating their products successfully. There's even a book written about it called "Premium Power". I seriously consider GM should do focus groups on whether the next Malibu should be a RWD. Being a RWD will make it fun to drive and will make people forget about Accord and Camry, totally! And this wont cannibalize CTS sales because people would still want a Cadillac for the style, luxury and prestige, not to mention performance and fun to drive. The Malibu can get RWD and less powerful engines. The Malibu people dont really need horsepowers. This will also enable a RWD Pontiac to offer more horsepowers, an aggressive styling and sporty design and become poormen' BMWs.

Bob,

Thank you for showing so much support towards GM Holden!
Let me tell you the admiration and respect is mutual.

Please continue to support what Holden is trying to do and please instil your faith into the rest of the GM executive team so that Holden can continue to be an important part of GM for many years to come!

I just cant wait to see the reaction of the North American customers when the Aussie Zetas FINALLY hit the roads in USA!!!

When will we get a smaller RWD pontiac.

I saw the G8 at the New York Auto Show. I was very impressed, but the car is massive, 300C massive. Don't get me wrong, I'm don't mind large cars some times. I used to tool around in my dad's old Catalina.

But I live in the city where parking is at a premium. Nobody wants to scratch up their car trying to fit it into a parking spot. Don't get me started on parking garages.

No offense, but if I really needed the space provided by a G8, I'd probably be better off with an SUV or minivan. What the G8 and its ilk does offer is power. Power is even better when its in a smaller, lighter package.

How about a RWD Pontiac 180in or less and under 30 large? Say, the size of a BMW 3 series. At that size, it'll be great around town and sporty on the open road. It would also be nice if it didn't have "cop magnet" styling. ;)

Nate, that LED on the HHR is nice, but needs some sort of shade at night as it gets a bit annoying right there at the edge of my vision. Perhaps an equally inexpensive reshaped plastic surround would do the trick.

Back on topic, I'm pleased that the new rear drive cars are coming along nicely. It's good to hear that the Camaro is a real car now as opposed to a show car. The Park Ave is the car that interests me though. This car should be offered everywhere Buick sells cars. Most of us know that the Buick dealers are pretty stodgy and generally resist change. So of course they'd say that they don't want the car. however I think if they had a choice between the Park Ave and the Lucerne they'd take the Park Ave since they wouldn't have to worry about it stealing sales from another model. As for the whole Firebird or GTO thing, I'd rather the Firebird showed up sporting some really forward looking styling to set it apart from the more retro look of the Camaro. We've seen that the GTO doesn't work as a stand alone model, so unless it caps off a new LeMans coupe line then I can't see a new goat doing any better than the last one did.

Mr. Lutz,

PLEASE offer a pure and brutal no-holds-barred 500+hp Camaro SS.

This should be the ultimate Camaro-- a car for the no-compromises perfomance enthusiast. People needing daily drivers can buy one of the other, smoother Camaro versions. Offer it in coupe AND convertible versions. And, please, don't load it up with expensive electronic gizmos (NAV, etc) that take away from the essence of the car.

Make it nothing less than a legend. We need one.

Bruce Sherman

Jared,
Fuel economy figures haven't been determined yet, but with the economy boosting technology GM is increasingly using in its engines (VVT, AFM, DI, etc.) I wouldn't be surprised to see economy right around 20/30 city/highway even for V8 models. When the Camaro concept was making the rounds at the autoshows I remember that GM's stated MPG targets were somewhere around there. I think the new Camaro will be surprisingly fuel efficient. I hear very good rumors about what the new Gen V powerplants will be capable of. In any case, be careful about generalized statements. You may not want a car like this, but there is a market. People still buy SUVs and muscle cars. Look how many mustangs are on the road. This may not be the car for your budget and driving style, but the market is diverse and Chevy would be missing out on a very large segment if they didn't build this car.

I would like to second Gary's car for a smaller RWD sedan for Pontiac, somewhere around the size of the BMW 3 series or the Malibu, really anything in the mid-size car spectrum. I love everything about the G8 except its size. Make a smaller RWD sedan, make the 2011 Solstice Coupe drive as well as a Miata with the increased quality of the newer GM cars, and I will be in the nearest Pontiac dealer as quickly as I can deciding which one to buy.

Chris, I still say that no matter how much you differentiate the styling, if the Firebird isn't drastically different in terms of drivetrain, suspension, and amenities then they are essentially the same car with different wrapping paper and will only confuse shoppers and dilute sales figures.

Finally Bruce, if we want to stay true to Camaro heritage, the no-holds-barred ultimate driving enthusiast (read: racing) Camaro is the Z28, not the SS as is commonly misunderstood. The 1st gen SS may have had the larger engine, but as we all know there is so much more to performance cars than displacement and the Z28 was the real racer in the lineup.

That was nice piece of information, but I have questions for you, I agree that Holden team have great passion in designing and building great cars. Question is what is the difference between team in Australia and team in USA or some where else. Why can't other teams produce nice cars as Holden. I love Automobiles from Holden but can't get them in United States. This is changing now but please bring more cars to the state side. Also why can't GM provide the systems like FORD SYNC for Chevrolet and Multimedia Interface systems like Audi (Sorry BMW) to Cadillac. I guess GM needs to ask customers what they want, or look at the other car manufacturers. Also what's up with the 4 Speed Transmission, soon it will be history and GM is still using it. This is the best official blog I have ever seen.

Chris R:

I didn't notice the HHR LED being annoying. In fact what impressed me was that I didn't even know it was there until I held up a mapquest page and noticed there was enough ambient light that in the dark I could read without the map light. It was nice because I could look up and my eyes didn't need to readjust. Maybe my eyes are better/worse then yours or maybe since I'm tall it wasn't as annoying. Either way I think if they mounted it under the dash where it was noticable but not annoying would be great.

I agree that a Park Ave would be great. I also think that Buick needs to work on the younger crowd a bit. I think they traditionally are aimed toward older people. I'm not sure I'd use the Park Ave name but a G8 Based China Like Park Ave would be awesome (and certainly what I'm really saving for). But I think it needs a name that will appeal more to the younger people like myself.

Gary,
I think the G8 is fine in its present size, I think it could use a bit of weight reduction... but honestly at 4000 lbs I don't expect it to perform like an M3. But if they released it as a Buick at 4100 lbs I'd buy one, I'm after the Buick quiet and ride with the Pontiac handling and the GTO power. To bad I can't get Cobalt fuel economy in there too... I personally like large cars. If I'm going to invest in a car at that price point it better be large because I may not be able to afford something like a Solstice as a toy. Then again I live in the middle of no where with wide open roads. I am not a city person, though I have driven large cars in cities... Honeslty if your city is so crowded that you don't like a larger car, look elsewhere. Just my opinion.

My main problem with a RWD car is geography and weather. I haven't driven a new GM RWD in the snow yet but I know how much better FWDs go in a straight line in snow then RWDs... don't get me wrong I LOVE RWD in the summer, but FWD is more practical in the winter. What I really would love is a true all wheel drive car... one that in the summer is RWD and the winter is AWD... sounds like the new CTS to me... to bad I'm not a fan of the CTS exterior design (hence my interest in the G8 and Park Ave).

As far as size goes, if power to weight is what you are after why not go with a G6?

I'd love to see a G6 size car with RWD but I don't see it being that practical up north unless the traction management system is really really good. If you want a small RWD look at the new 1 Series from BMW its small, its light, its got 300 HP and its priced reasonably and its a BMW!... problem solved.

Cop magnet? Hmm so are you saying you want 1980s box styling? I think if you stay away from red and yellow and drive sanely you won't have a cop magnet of a car even with a BMW or a G8... just my two cents though.

Ghent,

I'd love to see a RWD Malibu but read above.. I'm not sure how it would be in the winter... how many peformanc drivers are there really?

Jared,

I hardly see how the Camaro is irrelevant in today's market. $3.00 a gallon isn't THAT bad... certainly if you can afford a $30K+ car you can afford the gas that goes in it. 20 MPG in the city isn't bad, its not Hybrid but what do you expect? People who buy Camaros won't necissairly buy them for city driving. Personally I've looked at the numbers, higher MPG is ok but its not that big an issue to keep people from buying... look at SUV sales a few years ago... If you want better millage buy a smaller car, its that simple... less car mass = more MPG.

Tyler,

Is a manaul tranny really cheaper today? I don't have the numbers on that one, do you? I'd suspect manuals are slightly cheaper to make, but probably not when you consider the auto/manua sales numbers... The reason manuals don't sell is either people don't want to be bothered shifting them or they dont know how or want to learn to drive them. Personally I love stick as a performance option, but I love auto around town. I hardly consider the G6 a midsize people hauler. Its on the larger side of the sport compact, and in its large V6 trim is no doubt marketed as a performance car, as such it should have a manual option... and SINCE it IS the same car as a Malibu or Saturn it should have the same performance options.... just because it isn't marketed as a kids car doesn't mean people don't like to have fun in them.

I mean that being the case why not drop manuals all togther... we can neglect the fuel economy advantage that manuals traditionally saw in the past and forget the fact that Autos cost more and are more complex to produce (though I need to confirm that).

The need for tons of luxuary on the Pontiac is for two reasons... 1) Pontiac is the only brand that really is offering what I like in power, exterior styling, and price. and 2) because people like options. Honestly after driving a new 2008 Grand Prix, I was amazed its better then my father's 2000 Park Ave for ride noise, ride and fun. The interior isn't anything to write home about... but adding a few creature features (not comforts) would make the car just that much more user "efficient" Sure I'd love all the options and the luxuary, but compared to cars in the past today's standard is better then yesturday's luxuary. While I agree that the Cadillac is a more luxurious brand it is also more expensive AND I personally am not a fan of the styling. I prefer the subtle curves of the G8 and Buicks. So to me those features would be nice in a Pontiac or Buick.

I don't see what heritage has to do with anything. GM dropped Olds and it doesn't seem to be that big an issue. why not rebadge the performance cars. Heck they dropped the popup headlights on the vette for the C5 and some people were up in arms about it, while others embraced it. Overall the car is better for it. I think the same goes for narrowing down GMs line of same car different name. As I mentioned if all the features were in all the cars in a car "family" then the names are all that reall distinguish them... just the way a G6 and a G6 GXP are two different cars but are really the same for the most part. I dont' think the name or heritage matters that much. GM is trying to get rid of their past perception which also means realizing that the heritage can be scrapped. I dont' think changing things that much is going to stop a car buyer. We're talking about brand familiarity, the GM name is enough to either steer people toward or away from GM. All that keeping the names has done is kept people informed over where the cars fit in.... for instance a GTO is thought of as a performance car, it was marketed that way and people learned it that way and they recognize the name. the NEW GTO was criticized for that... people said its not a GTO... but I can neither agree or disagree with them. It was just the name that it was given. Just because soemthing has heritage or is classic doesn't mean people won't buy it. The corvette could have easily been branded a Solstice and vice versa... the die hard performance nutts wouldn't have cared to much because they are more worried about specs then the name. Take a step back I'm sure you see what i mean... I know I see your point however I think it is simply the nature of people to resist new things... they eventually do adapt and accept though.

As for options, you miss my point... Having everything available makes a lot of sense. You don't hear much about cars without cup holders, because its now considered a standard option on almost all cars. Same with radios.... What I'm talking about is making all GM cars feature comparable.... All offered with an option for, a good radio, nice seats with power adjustment, power mirrors, compass, drive info system, pushbutton auto, or a true manual, nav systems, ambient LED map lighting, real map lights, rear AC vents etc.. these things could be designed on a company wide basis with only minor apperance items changed... For instance all GMs are shipped with manuals... how hard is it to design one shift controller for them or one push button system and offer it in all the cars.... The only thing that would sperate the cars theni s the looks of the exterior and interiror.... the functional things and creature features would all be standard... cost wise if the parts been had high quality parts it wouldn't be a big deal.... heck I can think to a friend's Acura TL which shares the same generic Honda chime sound as the normal Honda Civics... I found it kind of ironic that such a sound was used in their premium car... but when the company develops quality parts for their normal cars why not use them in the top end cars... GM should make most of its cars to the standard that Buick and caddy work to... if ALL the cars were like that and the small components were common the cost would go down not up. The are always redesigning interior and exteriror panels anyway so accomodating creature features isn't a big deal cost wise.

Like I said its the small stuff that GM misses that could easily be done on a larger scale and make ALL their cars better making the whole GM brand that much better.

More options in GM means more people will get what they want and GM will sell more cars... To me the G6/Malibu/Aura line is all the same car... its optioned different... but honestly no single car really fits my tastes.. they could easily... I'd take the Aura Exterior with Pontiac Badges, the Malibu interior and the Pontiac 6 speed, Pontiac Suspension parts and a Nav system... that would get me to the table to talk about buying that car. See its all the same car but the options and how the car is presented can make or break things... I don't like the Pontiac by itself its kind of ordinary to me... the Saturn again is nice but lacks the nice dash and the 6 speed... and the Malibu, well I hate the Chevy badges and the exterior style... the interior is amazing though... So how do I pick which I want to spend hard earned cash on? Well I don't I look for something else... how many other customers do that and don't even realize why or how many times does this happen to GM and they not realize why its happening.

If I look at GM's competition I can get one model of their car in different trims and options... I most certainly either take the base package as it is or option it to how I like it.. if they dont' have what I like I shop another brand.... with GM they have three brands of everything and often times features on one brand aren't availble on another... so out of three brands I have to goto number 4 (non GM) to get what I want. GM could fix that if they actually cared... but ... I digress..

I hope someone from GM listens to these things. The biggest advice I have is to offer manuals or a better auto (ask me I'll explain it). offer different dash options and nav systems... or just read my posts you'll see what I mean.

Bob I'm so glad you chose to Blog about Australia because there are some things on my mind about the G8. People on gminsidenews.com have been discussing the G8 at length and there are some common concerns/questions about the G8 - some concern me personally more than others. Some that worry me in particular:
1) Lack of Nav & XM? Frankly, this isn't a HUGE issue for me because I wouldn't pay for them. But this car will be compared to other cars that have these options.
2) The manual 6-speed may not happen!? or may have a gas guzzler tax!? OMG please say it isn't so. My hope was to trade in my Bonneville next summer for a manual G8 GT. :-(
3) What's up with the lack of a spare tire on the GT? Is this a ploy to get us to keep our OnStar service? Are the tires run-flats at least?
4) Summer-only tires on the GT?!? I live outside of the snow belt, but this still makes me nervous about my drives to the northeast to see family during the winter months. Hopefully this is just for the larger tires?
5) The rims are nice, but not terribly interesting. I don't think I'm the only person who thinks the V6 rims are neater than either of the GT choices. People REALLY want those pizza-pie rims from the concept. I guess maybe you're saving them for the GXP but an option would be nice.
6) Are the hood scoops functional? They need to be functional or there needs to be an option to delete them. I like them but some people don't (like my wife).

I don't mean to complain! I'm really very excited about the car and it's not like I've written it off because of the above issues. There are some things I'm very pleased with as well:
1) The car is a looker from many angles.
2) I am releived that you tried to control the price of the GT (which is the trim I want). I don't know if I can convince the wife/CFO to spend over $30k.
3) The quad exhaust looks sweet.
4) The interior looks to be class-leading. 4-spoke steering wheel instead of 3 - AWESOME. And if the seats are as comfortable as the GTO, my 6'2" frame and bad back will thank you a million times on long trips.
5) I've heard the trunk is huge. Very nice.
6) The rear seats fold down! Woot. That was a huge concern for me. I can't afford a G8 AND a pickup truck, so I need trunk-to-cabin openness sometimes.
7) The side-marker vent combo is kinda cool. I hate side blinkers that are on the mirror (especially the red arrow kind that are on the glass).
8) Good job with the G8 website - keep it up! As soon as pricing is finalized, we want to be able to build one online and see the real price!
9) Even though there aren't a ton of color choices, they're pretty good ones! Especially the black, red, and even that white looks good on the website. Is the blue actually purple like it appears on the website??

I make the following suggestions going forward.
1) Send me a G8 to drive around town and show off to people :-) Okay a long shot but it can't hurt to ask you anyway.
2) Think about introducting a G8 "D" (diesel) model very soon. If a torquey Diesel was available when I buy next year that fell between the V6 and GT in performance, I'd definitely consider it to save gas money.
3) Please encourge the dealers not to price gouge! PLEASE. Gouging makes them a little extra money early but irritates buyers and then cars end up sitting on the lot later on.
4) Don't give the car away to other brands. People are pretty happy that the G8 isn't a rebadge of another US brand. (Some gripe that it's a rebadge of a Holden which is a silly complaint imho) But don't mess that up by letting other brands take the Commodore or G8 without major interior and exterior changes.

Thx Bob!

I wasnt aware that there are pics available of the 18 and 19" rims for the G8. I for one, have not not seen both sets of production rims.

Recommendations:

1. Add some real pics to the G8 website- what is there now is insufficient.
2. Give the G8 an 8 way seat for next model year
3. Add nav as an option
4. Add auto dimming outside mirrors

Other than that the car looks good and contrary to what people here have said the weight is appropriate for the size and class of car.

My second car was a 68 Camarro and my second was a 73.

Bob, please, please, please make them do a trim package like the 68 with the racing stripe around the nose. It looks like nothng else on the road.

it will save me from buying the version without stripes and adding it myself.

SJ,

I agree with all of your comments.

Uvaeeman,

I can't quite agre with your last few comments. I think Buick should have a G8 version. I don't think MUCH has to be changed on the exterior to do this, nor do i think much has to be changed inside except to offer more luxuary. Heck make Buick the Diesel model. I think a Buick that is RWD and stylish is what I'm after. I'm a younger buyer who is after a bit of luxuary and performance. I think both can be had, but not in Pontiac trim. If it HAS to be a Pontiac then its going to need some more luxuary options... Specifically Nav and a better Auto shift system.

Bob,

LS3 or NO Camaro at all!!!!

Don't jack this up like the GTO! If the LS3 is not an option, I will be forced to get the Challenger. I've waited 1 year for this car, I can certainly wait another. But 3 yrs waiting for you to figure out which power plant deserves to be in this car will not happen.

Go all in or go home!

LS3 or B-U-S-T!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'd also love to see a return of the Riviera, a V-8 RWD luxury coupe

As would I. My 1982 Riviera may have had FWD, but I didn't hold that against her. It was awesome and I miss her everyday. Also Mr. Lutz, PLEASE talk GM into bringing back the Grand National. A V6 Coupe that can smoke virtually anything else on the road for less than 25k sounds pretty darn good to me.

As for the Camaro...

I want this new Camaro so bad I can taste it, man! Also, that Orange plastic in the car either needs to go or needs to come in other colors. Orange doesn't do much for me.

Nate,
Perhaps I should clarify my "major" comment - I just want it to look like major changes. If underneath things are similar that's okay. Then it's not a rebadge. :-)
I.e. Saturn Sky is not a rebadge of a Pontiac Solstice. However, the G5 IS a rebadge of a Cobalt coupe.

I've been watching the progress of the Camaro. Sounds like it will be impressive.
I do have reservations about GM's ameneties in thier cars. I currently own a 2006 Malibu SS. Two things really bug me.

1> Why do BOTH trip odometers only go up to 999. miles? I guess in the USA GM figures nobody ever travels more than a 1000 miles from home?

2> Why is the passenger side vanity mirror not lit? Thats down right cheap.

Other than that, the car is quick and a blast to drive and seems to be holding up well.

Yeah all that stuff is awesome! I just have one question for the big shots at G.M. Do you want to be the future or the past. You better get your butt in gear and start pumping those hydrogen fuel cell cars out of the factory's. 2012 is a little too late. I know you have to find someone to supply the hydrogen and the oil companies are trying to make sure the cell doesn't happen. Now come out with the freekin technology already. It should've been out a few years ago.

Bob,

Whilst this blog topic is now 6 months old, I choose it because of the topic being the G8.

As a Aussie lad with a love of Holden's (first car UC Torana), I was excited to see last year the announcement that GM would be selling the Commodore in the US as a Pontiac...fantastic!

I know that given Australia's limited population as compared to the US, our cars have usually cost more than in the US. I'm currently looking at the Commodore SS-V which retails for approx AUD54,000 in Aust. Given the G8 is made in Australia and shipped to the US, how can GM sell it for only USD30,000 (or AUD33,000 @ AUD/USD 0.93)?

Given the pricing differential between the G8 (v8) which from the Pontiac web site looks like the SS-V interior, why are Australian car buyers paying approx AUD20k more than our fellow GM lovers in the US?

If GM can produce the G8 here and sell it in the US for USD30k, why can't Australian's buy the same car for AUD35k in Australia.

Thanks for your consideration of this issue.