2008 Pontiac Solstice in Melbourne, FL - $11,995

Introduced in 2006, the Pontiac Solstice became the nameplate's first production two-seat roadster. Boasting a near 50/50 weight distribution, the rear-drive Solstice is built on GM's rear-drive Kappa platform.

For 2008, the Solstice adds the following standard equipment: a premium acoustic headliner, an enhanced sound system with MP3 capability and an iPod jack, XM Satellite radio, tire pressure monitoring system, OnStar communications system and driver information center.

Powered by an advanced Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine, the base Solstice transfers torque to the street through the standard Aisin close-ratio five-speed manual gearbox. A Hydra-Matic 5L40 electronically-controlled five-speed automatic transmission is an available option.

Last year, Pontiac debuted of Solstice GXP. Featuring an Ecotec 2.0L four-cylinder Direct Injection Turbo with Variable Valve Timing four-cylinder engine, the new GXP receives the following upgrades and enhancements: four-wheel independent sport-tuned suspension, StabiliTrak vehicle stability system, P245/45R18 performance tires, high-polished stainless-steel dual exhaust outlets, front and rear fascia extensions and embroidered GXP seats.

The Solstice employs an independent short/long arm-type (SLA) suspension in the front and rear to give the Solstice a responsive, road-gripping driving feel. The SLA suspension design features forged aluminum upper and lower control arms that are strong and low in mass. The rear suspension also features a toe control link and the rear differential housing has an optimized three-point mounting design. Bilstein coil-over-monotube shocks keeps the roadster connected to the road at all four-corners.

Pontiac engineers developed a lower-dominant tube structure for the chassis in order to provide a solid foundation for the suspension hardware. Hydroformed frame rails run the full length of the vehicle and are the basis for the chassis. Additional stampings from a rigid structure provide mounting points to attach the bodywork. An internally reinforced tunnel at the center of the chassis houses the transmission and driveshaft and is enclosed at the bottom to enhance stiffness. This built-in strength reduces chassis flex and cowlshake in a vehicle designed from the outset as a convertible. The rigid structure of the Kappa vehicle architecture permits more precision when it comes to tuning the suspension.

The interior design of the Solstice is equally purposeful and intuitive, with details like pedals placed for easy heel-and-toe driving and a cockpit-style instrument panel that sweeps around the driver. The interior designers worked with the chassis engineers to optimize the placement of the short-throw shifter. Manual shifter throws between gear changes were studied and revised until the "just right" length was determined.

Although the Solstice conveys a minimalist image, it comes well-equipped, with an impressively roomy interior that allows for a comfortable driving position for tall drivers. Standard equipment includes: racing-inspired sport bucket seats with convenient seat cushion and seatback storage; leather-wrapped manual shift knob; AM/FM stereo with six speakers; rear window defogger; rake-adjustable steering wheel; three cupholders; and an easy-to-operate cloth convertible top with glass backlight.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 95.1; overall length: 157.2; width: 71.3; height: 50.1 --all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder: 173 hp at 5,800 rpm and 167 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm; 2.0L DI Turbo four-cylinder -– 260 hp at 5,300 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 2,500-5,200 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual or five-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo -– 19 city/28 hwy. (manual); 19 city/26 hwy. (auto); 2.4L four-cylinder -– 19 city/25 hwy. (manual); 19 city/24 hwy. (auto).

Cargo capacity: 5.4 cubic feet.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes, OnStar communications system, automatic headlamp control, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitor and tire repair kit. GXP adds limited slip rear axle, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, fog lights, remote keyless entry, automatic power door locks, traction control and StabiliTrak vehicle stability control 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 2008 Pontiac Solstice roadster starts from $22,165 for the base model, to $27,845 for the GXP. Destination charges add $620.

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