2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP First Drive North Dakota

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Introduction

Pontiac Solstice GXP - 2007 First Drive: Pontiac says it wants to be a brand known for performance. Except for the GTO, the so-called Goat that'll soon be making a one-way trip to the automotive slaughterhouse, and possibly the V8-powered Grand Prix GXP, we've seen little proof in the pudding. The G6? Not a performer. The Torrent SUV? Yeah, not so much. There is, of course, the Solstice roadster, one of the sexiest rides to come out of Pontiac in years, and anyone who has driven it will attest to its tight, responsive demeanor. They'll also likely complain about the horribly unrefined 177-horsepower engine, clunky five-speed manual transmission, low-grade materials and convoluted convertible top that, when stowed, transforms cargo storage into an unrealistic notion.

With the release of the 2007 Solstice GXP, Pontiac has effectively stapled shut the flapping mouths of incessant naysayers. Between the staples, we're still able to get out muffled complaints about the cheap materials and questionable fit and finish, though our babble is basically drowned out by the GXP's sweet exhaust note. Under the hood resides a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine good for 260 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, which Pontiac claims pushes the GXP to 60 mph in only 5.5 seconds, tapping out at a drag-limited 142 mph. Plus, it's all wrapped in the same sexy package that attacks curves and autocross tracks with tenacity. If you, like us, have been waiting for Pontiac performance to mean more than an Aussie-bred GTO, it's time to check out the Solstice GXP.

Features

With its base price of $26,995 (including a $600 destination charge), the 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP carries a $5,000 premium over the entry-level model. Most of that covers the upgraded powertrain and hardware, though there are also quite a few features found on the GXP that are either unavailable or optional on the base Solstice. Those items include cruise control; carpeted floor mats; power door locks, power windows, and power mirrors; keyless entry; and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. Buyers of the GXP also benefit from 18-inch polished alloy wheels rolling on 245/45 Goodyear Eagle F1 performance rubber, front fog lights, a special indicator for engine oil quality, and less obvious items like four-wheel antilock disc brakes, a rear limited-slip differential, and GM's Stabilitrak stability control system.

Besides these unique features, the GXP shares with its less-expensive sibling a tilt steering column, a single-disc CD player, a glass rear window sewn into the soft convertible top, and automatic headlights. Options consist of upgraded sound systems with an MP3 player, XM satellite radio, a six-disc CD changer, or Monsoon premium audio; OnStar; a Premium Package with leather seats and interior trim; a rear spoiler; and alloy wheels finished in either silver or chrome. Surprisingly, air conditioning, standard on all but the cheapest of today's models, is optional on the GXP.