2004 Pontiac Grand Prix - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Pontiac Grand Prix Buying Resources:
2004 Pontiac Grand Prix Review:
The manufacturers at Pontiac
were so eager to debut the newly revamped Grand Prix that
they released it in the spring as an early model. With a modern
style makeover and even more power than before, it’s easy
to understand their enthusiasm.
The Grand Prix is one step
up in size from Pontiac’s Grand Am. It is a five-passenger,
four-door sedan that uses a front-wheel drive setup with strong
V6 power. For 2004, part of the Grand Prix’s changes include
a longer body, which adds more rear legroom for larger passengers.
In addition to its attractive
driving package and new look, the 2004 Grand Prix is also
quite safe. All new 2004 Grand Prix models feature driver
and front-passenger dual-stage airbags and front-seat safety
belt pretensioners. Side-impact head-curtain airbags are also
available as an option.
Under the Hood
The base GT1 model and midlevel
GT2 trim use a 3.8-liter V6 engine. It is mated to a 4-speed
automatic transmission and generates 200 horsepower at 5200
rpm and 230 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm.
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes,
a tire-pressure monitor and traction control are three features
that come standard with the GT2 and top-line GTP models. The
latter also has the most power in the lineup. This is due
to its 3.8-liter Supercharged V6, which churns out 260 horsepower
at 5200 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm.
Both engines won’t let you
sit around after you push down on the gas, waiting for the
car to move. The employ electronic throttle control (ETC),
which provides no-lag engine response.
Standard Features, Options
Packages and Style
Regardless of which trim you
decide to pick up, Pontiac ensures that the standard package
will reach a minimum level of comfort that is quite appealing.
All models have a center console with integral armrest, storage
compartment and two power outlets. Also standard are power
programmable door locks, a driver information center, remote
keyless entry, an AM/FM stereo with CD player and rear-seat
passthrough.
GTP models offer a new Competition
Group Package (Comp G). It includes such things as StabiliTrak
and the TAPshift transmission system. The former is GM’s four-wheel
vehicle stability management feature that uses sensors and
engine control to correct slippage.
TAPshift (Touch Activate Power)
combines automatic and manual transmission features. It features
paddles on each side of the steering wheel that let drivers
manually control shifting.
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