Pontiac’s future: fastback coupe coming in 2009

The G5 will be replaced in 2010 with a redesigned model; this means that the G5 will may remain in Pontiac’s lineup one or two years longer than originally planned. As about the next-generation G6 it will be built on GM’s new global rwd vehicle architecture, called Alpha. The redesigned G6 had been slated for the 2012 model year with assembly in the Oshawa, Ontario, plant. The rwd G6 is larger and heavier than the current fwd model.

The G8 will be the first model developed on GM’s global rwd vehicle architecture that will be sold in USA. The G8 shares much of its sheet metal with the Commodore. Unique to the G8 are the hood, front fascia, grille and headlights. The fascia and bumpers had to be engineered to meet U.S. specifications.

The base G8 will have a 261-hp, 3.6-liter V-6; the GT model will have a 362-hp, 6.0-liter V-8. Prices will start at $25,000.

The GTO will be replaced with a sporty, high-performance coupe.

Also Pontiac will add a fastback coupe for the 2009 model year. Higher-horsepower engines are planned, but a V-6 is not. GM likely will re-engineer and reskin or restyle the Solstice for the 2011 model year.

The Grand Prix and the Torrent will be discontinued.