2006 Pontiac Grand Prix in Biddeford, ME - $5,495

Introduced into the Grand Prix lineup for the 2005 model year, the front-wheel drive GXP sedan offers motorists a potent and precise alternative to the more expensive German Autobahn stormers. A highly refined sports sedan in its own right, the GXP owns the road with its assertive manner when underway. Boasting a purposeful sense of design, the big and bold Pontiac sedan is built off of GM's global Epsilon midsize vehicle platform.

The GXP sedan has more than just aggressive good looks. As the heart and soul of the Pontiac line-up, the GXP backs up the looks with the right performance hardware to match. The Pontiac sports sedan is propelled by a performance-oriented 5.3L V8 engine featuring Active Fuel Management (AFM) technology. AFM regulates the motor between eight- and four-cylinder operation to enable up to 12-percent improved fuel economy in certain light-load situations. A high-performance variant of the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed electronic automatic gearbox with TAPshift communicates the torque to the street.

Other performance goodies included in the GXP mix: forged, flangeless 18-inch wheels; Performance Brake Package; fully independent suspension with GXP-tuned springs, thick anti-roll bars and premium monotube Blistein gas-charged struts; Magnasteer II steering system, four-channel ABS system and Stabilitrak stability control system.

At speed, the GXP is solid, tight, responsive and fast. This car was engineered for the techie gearhead who loves plenty of gadgets and fast cars. This Pontiac sedan was made to be driven hard and fast for long periods of time. The seriously damped suspension system is the glue that joins driver and sedan together as one seamless unit.

Inside the roomy cabin, Pontiac developed an aggressive, strong theme -- fun like a coupe but carries like a sedan. Displays and controls are arrayed in a "fighter cockpit" arrangement while seating is very comfortable with honest lateral support -- something to appreciate during spirited driving.

The 60/40 split fold down rear seat adds to the large capacity cargo area. In a unique twist, the front passenger seat also folds flat for maximum cargo carrying ability. In addition, the rear windows go all the way down.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 110.5; overall length: 198.3; width: 71.6; height: 55 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 5.3L V8 -- 303 hp at 5,600 rpm and 323 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed electronically-controlled automatic with TAPshift.

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/27 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 16.0 cu. ft.

Parts content -â€" country of origin

Final assembly point: Oshawa (Plant #2), Ontario, Canada.

US/Canadian: 90 percent.

Engine and transmission: United States.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system, tire inflation kit, head-up display, power programmable door locks, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent vehicle alarm system, OnStar communications system, remote engine start system, tire pressure monitoring system, fog lamps and daytime running lamps.

Optional safety features include front/rear head curtain airbags and a navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix GXP sedan starts from $28,745. Destination charges add $685.

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