It has been quite some time since Pontiac produced a car that created such excitement as the G8. The return of the GTO seemed as if it was going to bring Pontiac and GM back up to the top, but the somewhat lackluster looks reminded too many people of a Grand Am with a huge engine stuffed between the fenderwells. However, with its line of "G" cars, GM has slowly started picking up the pace with its Pontiac cars. The new G8 sports sedan, based on the Holden Commodore, is set to debut in showrooms this fall, and believe us, this car is going to sell like hotcakes.

The G8 will be the second Holden-based vehicle to come from General Motors.  The GTO's return was based on the Holden Monaro sports coupe.  GM is also using Holden to build the prototype 2009 Camaro which has already seen some street testing.  The GTO didn't do very well on the showroom floor, but GM aims to rebound for that with the G8.

The sporty looks of the G8 mimic the luxury sedans from across the pond.  The sharp, yet comfortable looks give the G8 a sophisticated presence.  While sharp looks are a great thing, the car must also possess thrill under the hood.  Pontiac aims to please, and please they shall.  

The base model G8 will receive a 261 hp V6 engine found in the G6 GTP.  While this torquey engine will certainly carry the big car well, the real treat comes with the GT badge.  A 6.0 liter V8 pumping out over 360 horsepower is stuffed between the fenderwells of the G8.   This engine is said to carry the sedan to sixty miles per hour in the mid five second range, with a low 14 second quarter mile time.  The GT is available with a six speed automatic or a six speed manual, set to debut a little while after the first release.  

Sadly, the huge 20 inch wheels and leather two-toned interior will not make it to the production model.  The ride height will also increase by a few inches.  The brakes wont be as large, but will still bring the car down to a stop in an expedient manner.  Pontiac is known for making its cars handle well, and the G8 aims for the same goal.

The car screams BMW and Audi competitor, but only track testing will tell whether or not the G8 is up to the challenge.  Stay tuned to RPM Planets for more information as it becomes available on this and other great sports sedans.