2006 Pontiac GTO consumer reviews

After owning a 2006 GTO (with the LS2 400 hp engine and 4L65-E automatic) for three months, I don't understand why GM didn't promote this car more vigorously. It's an absolute blast to drive--no, it's not the same as the classic GTO--either in looks or performance. The performance is far better, and the handling and road holding are very good. There's a bit more body roll than I would prefer in hard cornering, but if slalom racing is your interest, this isn't your car anyway. Everywhere I go with this Impulse Blue GTO, people stop and ask about it. I've given test drives to at least two dozen people, and every one of them just loves the car, and wishes they had one. Even my wife, who was skeptical about getting a GTO, loves to drive it. And she has an Audi A6 to compare it against. From the second you turn the key, and feel the rumble of the engine and vibration in your seat, until you first punch the throttle, you feel a sense of performance and pure power. The interior is gorgeous, with color-matched leather and suede trim, up to and including the stitching on the steering wheel cover and shifter boot. A Blaupunkt audio system is standard, and it is powerful and smooth--just like the car itself. While I know that I'm in the minority, I also like the external styling more than most--it's a stealthy look that doesn't really attract attention until you get up close and see the rear fascia and dual exhausts or the hood scoops in front. That suits me just fine, because this modern muscle machine is a continuing inducement to lose your driver's license. Attracting traffic enforcement attention is not something I really want. As an automotive engineer and quality consultant, I've driven a large number of cars over the years. Some have been better than the 2006 GTO, but not a one (including the new Mustang GT) has the blend of performance, comfort, ride, and pure joy that this car has brought me--at least not until you spend two or three times as much. For the cost of a well equipped Grand Cherokee, I've got a toy that might last until the price of gas gets so high that I can't afford to drive it.

If you simply want something that looks really cool, then this probably isn't the car for you. If you want a car that outruns and out handles the better looking Mustang, then this is the car for you. Prior to buying a 2006 GTO I had rented 2 2006 Mustangs for long road trips to see if it was a car I really wanted to buy, but prior to m purchase I went and test drove the 2006 GTO. At that point the Mustang was forgotten, and I am extremely happy with the purchase I made.