Back when General Motors had not yet chosen a name for its new not-a-camino when the Pontiac G8 ST had just been announced, there was a contest.

A contest was held, a winner was chosen and the Poncho sport truck got the ST suffix officially added to its base G8-derived name. Joseph Warren, the winner of the naming contest, was granted a G8 ST as his prize for picking the right (and seemingly rather obvious) name, but since that particular piece of sport-truckery has now officially been scrapped, he had to pick something else. His choice? A fresh new Pontiac Torrent GXP. Really, we’re not making that up. His only direction was that it had to be priced equal to or less than what the ST would have sold for. He could be parking a desirable G8 GT in his driveway, but perhaps the Torrent’s CUV bodystyle is a better fit for Mr. Warren’s life. Your mileage may vary.

Source Autoblog

Unveiled at the New York Auto Show, the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coup hard top was designed to expand the success of the convertible model for drivers that want all-season capability.

As reported by Ray Wert:

You knew him as Jazz before he was so handily destroyed — ripped asunder, really — by Megatron. You also knew him as the Pontiac Solstice. But that never quite fit, did it — because he wasn’t a convertible in the movie. Well, now he’s been truly revealed as a production model, and most importantly as a coupe — the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe to be exact.

Yes, that’s right, the absolutely gorgeous alt-mode of the Autobot recon man’s been brought back to live in a fully production targa-topped coupe — and what else can we say other than we’re having a very private robogasm right now — especially over the lines of this sleek little two-seater. Full press release after the jump.

PONTIAC UNVEILS 2009 SOLSTICE COUPE

Hardtop Extends Appeal of Classic Design

NEW YORK – Drawing inspiration from classic sports cars, the 2009 Pontiac Solstice coupe was created for drivers who appreciate both dramatic styling and balanced performance. Unveiled at the New York Auto Show as a GXP model, the Solstice coupe builds on the success of the convertible model while offering a greater range of all-season driving opportunities.

For drivers still wanting an open-air experience, the coupe also features a removable roof panel, fully opening the cockpit to all of the sensations of the road.

“Today’s Solstice is the top-selling roadster in the U.S., and we believe this new model has even broader appeal,” said Jim Bunnell, Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager. “The coupe has all the design cues and pleasing performance of the original roadster, and is an all-season alternative for people who enjoy open-air driving.”

The coupe is expected to arrive in Pontiac dealerships in early 2009.

The making of a coupe

The new coupe was inspired by the Solstice coupe concept shown at the North American International Auto Show in 2002. True to the concept, it is a modern sports car with classic lines. The roofline has a “fastback” shape with stylized “rails” that run from the front of the roof to the rear, culminating in a stylish and functional ducktail-style rear spoiler.

The coupe’s roof is fixed aft of the B-pillars, with side windows and a rear liftglass for access to the cargo area. The roof panel is easily removed from the passenger compartment, and an optional soft roof cover stores in the cargo area. A home storage case for the roof panel will be offered through GM Accessories.

Engineering the design

Despite its dramatic new look, engineers made only minor structural changes to create the Solstice coupe. The rear fenders and rear fascia are the same as those on the convertible. New taillight assemblies flow more smoothly into the tapered roofline.

“The Solstice coupe represents a major collaboration of design and engineering,” said Bruce Kosbab, chief engineer. “The sleek lines of the new roof give the car a fresh appearance, yet only minimal changes were made to the body structure – it’s a great example of building on an already solid foundation.”

Lightweight structure

The roof’s structure was strengthened with additional support elements, including an aluminum roof bow attached with aluminum brackets. The bow and brackets are stiff, yet low in mass, a design feature that pervades the coupe’s overall construction. The roof includes a lightweight sheet molding compound cover affixed to a rigid aluminum frame for additional lightweight support. A lightweight magnesium roof panel frame weighs just 31 pounds (14.2 kg) and can be removed by one person. The cover is also made of sheet molding compound.

Powertrain and suspension

Because the change to a coupe body style resulted in only a slight increase in curb weight, no drivetrain or suspension changes were necessary to shift from the convertible body structure. Initial tests have shown that the Solstice coupe will deliver ride and handling, acceleration, braking and fuel economy comparable to the convertible model.

The coupe is powered by a standard 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine that generates 173 horsepower (129 kW), while the GXP version is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec engine with 260 horsepower (194 kW).

Interior additions

Much of the coupe’s interior remains the same as that of the convertible. However, the area behind the seats was redesigned for easy access to the cargo area, and a storage tray was mounted directly behind the headrests.

Removing the folding-top mechanism made way for a new, flat cargo floor and several storage compartments. The cargo area’s covered bins provide secure storage for smaller items. Cargo tie-down hooks help secure irregularly shaped items.

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Originally by Ray Wert from Jalopnik on March 18, 2008, 9:01pm

Revealed live at the 2008 New York Auto Show, the 2010 Pontiac G8 El Camino had an exciting reception by car enthusiasts.

As reported by Ben Wojdyla:

We had a caminogasm over the weekend when we dropped pics and press on the 2010 Pontiac G8 ST — which we’re sure you’ll vote to call the El Camino — and now we can give you the whole enchilada. The baddest truck-car bound for America just bowed here at the 2008 New York Auto Show and the explosion of flashbulbs has our heads spinning. The most anticipated car here at the show is a freakin’ superstar on the stage and we’re swarming it to learn all the important parts we didn’t know before – like just what kind of toting capacity that bed has. Stay tuned for a bevy of live pics and far more geeking out.

Originally by Ben Wojdyla from Jalopnik on March 19, 2008, 8:45am

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Pontiac Solstice Coupe

Pontiac announced the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coup as a solution for the difficult-to-use Solstice soft top. The 2009 model will have a targa top with a magnesium frame and SMC plastic shell weighing only 31 lbs.

As reported by Autoblog:

For those who can’t stand the nightmare contraption that is the Solstice top, Pontiac now has an answer for you. Behold the Solstice Coupe. Those who want some fresh air without the hassle of the Solstice soft top can partake in this car’s removable roof panel of the targa variety. The new coupe has looks derived from the original coupe concept that debuted at the same time as the roadster in 2002. While the roof panel doesn’t fit in the car when removed, there’s no need to be concerned (too much) about getting caught in the rain. A soft roof cover can be stashed in the back and put in place in case of a sudden downpour. The hard roof panel has a magnesium frame around the SMC plastic shell and weighs just 31 lbs. Aside from the top, the coupe is pretty much mechanically the same as the roadster. It gets the same 2.4L normally aspirated and 2.0L turbo direct-injected four-cylinder engines with five speed transmissions of the self-shifting or manual kind. If you’re hankering for this hard-top Solstice, you’ll have to wait alongside the Camaro fans until early in 2009 to get one.

Gallery: 2010 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

[Source: General Motors]

Originally by Sam Abuelsamid from Autoblog on March 18, 2008, 5:03pm

Click above to view more high-res live shots of the Pontiac G8 GXP

50-Cent joined Pontiac and Maximum Bob in announcing the new Pontiac G8 GXP hyping its six-speed optional manual transmission, 6.2-liter LS3 Corvette V8 and 402 horsepower.

As reported on Autoblog:

It’s a rare occurrence when honest applause breaks out in a press conference over a new model, let alone a transmission. But that’s exactly what happened when Maximum Bob talked up the Pontiac G8 GXP, and specifically its optional six-speed manual transmission. Mated to that highly coveted cog swapper is the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 pulled from the Corvette, making 402 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. If you opt for the 6L80 auto ‘box, you can check your manhood and an extra two lb.-ft. of torque at the door.

In addition to the upgraded engine and manual tranny, the GXP benefits from the 19-inchers originally shown on the G8 concept, Brembo brakes (sized 14-inches up front and 12.76 inches out back) and some revised suspension bits. Zero-to-60 times are down to 4.7 seconds and the G8 GXP (along with the Solstice coupe and ‘ute) are all due to hit dealers later this year.

Pontiac’s full press release is posted after the jump, and our own live high-res shots can be seen in the gallery below (we’re going to be adding more as soon as the pandemonium surrounding the vehicle dies down.

Gallery: 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP – Live Reveal

Gallery: 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP

Originally by Damon Lavrinc from Autoblog on March 19, 2008, 5:21am

Click above for high-res live shots of the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe

Pontiac’s Bob Lutz and music artist 50-Cent presented the new 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe with music, lights and much fanfare. They sold the 2009 Solstice GXP Coupe on its performance, economical pricing and luxury interior.

As reported by Autoblog:

A self-effacing and impeccably dressed Bob Lutz took shots at the old Pontiac during the live reveal of the 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe. Busting on the arrowhead’s former taste for cladding and Iron Dukes in the “excitement” product line, Lutz confidently strode alongside a silver 2009 Solstice GXP Coupe as it rolled out amidst fanfare provided by the Young Lords. Strobe lights flashed, music blared – it was like catching the last act of Kimmel, complete with Pontiac Garage signage. The Solstice Coupe replaces the world’s flimsiest soft-top setup with a composite targa panel. 50-Cent also made an appearance and touted the performance of the GXP-trim Solstice, saying “It’s faster than a Porsche Boxster. For $30,000… pick this one, not that one,” while pointing at the Porsche display. The look of the Solstice Coupe is definitely zoomy – think of a C3 Corvette left in the dryer too long and you get the idea. Inside, the feeling is perhaps slightly less claustrphobic, but the general low-budget interior continues, though the GXP on the stand was wearing leather on the seats. The price of entry will still be a bargain when you look at the style it buys (official pricing hasn’t been announced) – and the Coupe may even have enough trunk for an overnight bag.

Gallery: 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe – Live Reveal

Continue reading New York 2008: 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe live reveal [w/VIDEO]

Originally by Dan Roth from Autoblog on March 19, 2008, 5:46am

Click above for a high-res live gallery of the 2010 Pontiac Sport Truck

The rebirth of the Pontiac G8 Sport Truck was announced for the U.S. market, marking its first reappearance in over 20 years. Bob Lutz and Fifty Cent sold the case for the new G8 ST and showed off its features.

As reported by Autoblog:

Again with musical accompaniment from the Young Lords, Maximum Bob Lutz heralded the return of the El Camino Pontiac G8 Sport Truck to the U.S. market for the first time in over two decades. Joining Lutz to make the sales case for how wonderful the new G8 ST was Fifty Cent who the company claims is a loyal Pontiac owner. We’ve already heard all the specs on the new Ute, so we won’t bore you with them again here. Click to visit our previous post with all the deets. The platform is a longer wheelbase version of the one under the G8 sedan, and the suspension remains all-independent, although the rear end has been beefed up to provide some load carrying and towing capacity. This thing is no replacement for a Silverado in terms of capability, but for those that need to grab some bags of mulch from your local big box store or tow a pair of jet skis to the lake, the ST provides a much more car like ride and performance pretty close to the G8 GT sedan. The Sport Truck has the same 361-hp 6.0L V8 as the G8 sedan, along with the six-speed autobox through which 385 lb-ft of torque flow to the rear end. Sometime between now and late next year GM will announce what the real name of the ST, is but you can make your voice heard (whether anyone is actually listening is another story) at www.pontiac.com/namethiscar.

[Source: Pontiac]

Gallery: 2010 Pontiac G8 Sport Truck – Live Reveal

Gallery: 2010 Pontiac G8 Sport Truck

Originally by Sam Abuelsamid from Autoblog on March 19, 2008, 6:18am