Pontiac Solstice Details And Review | Was The Pontiac Solstice Gone Too Soon?

[@Masterchief68]

Just bought an 08 for my 75th birthday! What a blast! Reminds me of a Porsche 356 cabriolet! The handling, the braking, the turning!

[@josephkeen5670]

I was the original owner of a 2008 Solstice. I agree with your comments on the handling and feel for driving. The only other car that came close was my 1968 Pontiac Firebird. The Solstice was my daily driver for 13 years. I put 227,268 miles on it and it was as smooth as the day I bought it. Minimal repairs, nothing major over the 13 years. My biggest regret was selling it when I became comprised due to an illness. This was one of the most fun cars I have ever driven.

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you for taking the time to watch and share your experience, Joseph!

[@superdupper3681]

I want one coupe in france

[@ZaeSk8z]

Question, I can’t find the answer anywhere, why won’t my aux show that it’s connected? And same with the cigarette stick, it won’t get power… please help me

[@tedschmitt178]

I have a 20K mile 5-speed 2006 model which is my sunny day cruising car (I own 4 cars). I put maybe 50 miles a month on it. This car was originally sold in Delaware (where the cars were built). I love this car, and won’t consider getting rid of it. I’ve also owned a early 84 Fiero and two Miatas. This Solstice is by far, my favorite.

[@allans7281]

I have the 2.4 L I love it it is so comfortable all the power you need to keep you out of trouble you could still spend the tires if you want just a fantastic overall car that is extremely unique and feels great to drive super silky smooth manual transmission and clutch thumbs up Pontiac

[@debbiekitchen3035]

I bought my Solstice new in 2008. It now has 29K miles and still looks and runs like a dream. One of the most fun cars to drive -ever. White w black top and interior. Gets a lot of attention on the road.

[@stevehilkin7174]

I've owned the 2009 GXP Coupe version since New when it had 28 miles on it. I have boosted the normal 260hp with a factory/dealer upgrade tune to about 290hp and 340 tq. It currently has about 43k miles and has averaged over 28 MPG. Also added the stiffer sway bars and cold-air intake along with the Catback exhaust. What a thrill to drive and they only made 1266 coupes. They are at a great price point now for acquiring one if you're looking. Buy one, find a local Kappa car group to join in your regional cruises with like-minded enthusiasts of the Solstice and Saturn Sky owners. You'll have a blast! FYI, we also own a Saturn Sky Redline.

[@AdultsAreTalking]

I know they're twin kappas but which of the two do you enjoy or find yourself driving more? I'm in the market for one but I love both the Solstice and Sky equally. Thanks!

[@stevehilkin7174]

@@AdultsAreTalking I just got back from the Nationals Meet (NASSAM) in Rapid City, SD. There were around 100 cars in attendance. We took both cars and my wife drives our Sky RL and I drive our Solstice Coupe. The Coupe has manual trans and the Sky has automatic. Both are tuned to around 300hp with between 320-340 tq. The Solstice has stiffer stabilizer bars which makes it a tighter driving car. The Sky is a Limited Edition package with a factory-tuned handling package. It tends to drive smoother and more compliant. The Solstice needs alert attention to drive it spiritedly and have exillirating enjoyment. What is your desired driving experience you want?

[@AdultsAreTalking]

@@stevehilkin7174 long story short, I bought a Sky. 👍🏻

[@aidanmondo211]

I own a 2006 version of it and it’s a blast. We got one of first solstices in our area. It was a daily driver for 10 years and it has 94,000 miles on it. We are also the original owners of the solstice and it hugs the road so amazing!! This is my favorite car!

[@juansinferno]

This guy is so wholesome, dude looks like your friend's dad who's chill as hell

[@MrHal9999]

except for the fact that he gets in the trunk, and then says if you get locked in the trunk?!? Is this guy a hit man lol....What is this obsession with people in the trunk. Just kidding he seems very chill

[@allans7281]

I own this car and it’s so aerodynamic, that it does not need a lot of power at speed to push through the wind.

[@charliehummell6489]

I have a 2008 Solstice base. Same vehicle. I love the car and miss the Pontiac brand. When I was much younger I had a 1989 Formula Firebird. Pontiac built some great cars and it's a shame that the brand went away.

[@MikeMaryandRusty]

Just purchased this same car in black. It's being shipped in, I'm so excited!

[@jp_vlogz]

MikeMaryandRusty Nice!!! 🔥

[@remeoblue8648]

Where from and how’d you get it shipped??

[@beastbee0118]

@@remeoblue8648 ikr?

[@Slowsticee]

Black is the best color

[@ApartmentKing66]

@@Slowsticee Mine is.

[@l00k4tstuff]

2008 GXP Owner. Have 59K miles on it. Absolutely love the car. The turbo makes a big difference, and the Pontiac engineers left a LOT of headroom on it. I put a cold-air intake and bought a reputable tune and I'm getting over 350hp w/o doing anything else (except get better tires, because the stock just don't have the grip). Lots of other little hacks I did from the simple of adding a couple screen-door springs so the trunk opens full when released to a double-relay set-up so the front-side markers blink with the turn signal (was getting into too many mishaps on left-hand turns because people on the side roads can't see the front turn signals), and high-intensity LED brake lights to remind people there's a vehicle below their line-of-sight stopping right in front of them. Hoping to keep the vehicle for a very long time.

[@edflynn3441]

Hey what tune should I get just got a GXP, THANK YOU

[@l00k4tstuff]

@@edflynn3441 I got a Trifecta tune. They ask a lot of questions about what mods you've made, so make those first. There appear to be other good ones out there, just don't get the GM one. It is only set up for their cold-air intake mod plus a couple more PSI on the turbo.

[@halnwheels]

I have a 2007 Solstice with the 2.4 NA engine and manual transmission. It has every option from the factory, including limited slip differential. It had 48K miles when I got it August 2019, and 63K a year later, and it's not my daily driver and no driving it when there's salt exposure (NJ). To answer your question, this car is as tight as any new car I've driven. No clunks or shimmy or looseness at all. I put new Cooper sport tires on it and there is now no tire noise either. Now a lot of people express the opinion that the 2.0 turbo GXP is the only Solstice worth buying. I don't agree with this. The power delivery is very smooth and the exhaust note is very satisfying. It has a very slight muffled burble when decelerating that also sounds pleasing. The brakes inspire confidence and the steering even more so. It's not just that the car will turn faster than other cars, but that it does it so effortlessly and with no drama. Remember not to downshift to 3rd too early because it's a bit of a stretch down to that gear, but once you learn the spacing of the gears, you can drive this car very sportingly. The upgraded Monsoon audio system sounds very nice with it's subwoofer and satellite radio. While I've seen better head units installed in these cars, I don't want to put something in that looks like a square peg in a round hole. I am very much a proponent of this car. When you think about it, it embodies the same ideals as the MGs and other British sports cars from the 1950s. It uses a lot of parts from the corporate parts bin to keep the cost down, making it accessible to folks of moderate means. The Saturn Sky is basically the same car with some different visual differences. However, the car was conceived as a Pontiac and I personally prefer the smooth look of it to the other variants. Other items to note: like said in the video, the HVAC is very effective. If you park outside in the rain and you are facing downhill, water will accumulate between the humps against he rear window. There's no place for it to go. You sit so low that when you crest a hill on a narrow turning road, you might not be able to see where the road is going! Enjoy the ride!

[@timbock9713]

I have a 2008 2.4 auto. Mine is royal blue,beige interior and top. Love the car !! Once collectors start to realize it, it should be a real keeper. It is everything I wanted for a weekend car. I keep it garaged in winter and try to not get caught in rain. If anyone has the chance to pick one up, do it.

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you for sharing, Tim!

[@donwhitton7791]

I own a 2007 GXP Black. Bought it 2 years ago. Has 79,000km on it (49,000mi). I had dealer instal the GMPP upgrade (still available) so she puts out 290Hp and 340 Lb-Ft of torque. I've put 30,000km (18,000mi) on it and love every trip. Highly recommended car. Drives solid and noise free even at its age.

[@pynappels]

What is the cost of the upgrade?

[@lehuakey8778]

Aloha... My 2008 Pontiac Solstice GXP is 11 yrs old and only one owner. It has been under repair since my husband passed away due to my untamed driving and my madness when he died. We got the car in July 2009 and I still own it at approximately 100,000 + miles. Not too much over 100,000 mi. He passed in 2012 and I had no idea how to take care of &/or maintain any vehicle, much less the one we loved. In July 2016, I had to replace the engine and transmission and got new tires and brakes, as well. Prior to my self made accidents, such as climbing over curbs from the passenger side, she drove really tight and turned curbs like a race car, nice and tight. Since all this has transpired, I have become more educated on the care and maintenance of my Solstice Sweetie, My Silver Bullet! :) I have learned how to change the brakes and tires, to keep watch on fluids and tire pressure, to change the oil, and to flush the radiator. I aspire to keep learning continuously about how the Solstice operates from A-Z. Thank you so much for your informative videos and for taking the time to ask us pertinent questions. I look forward to more guidance on this amazingly simplistic and elegant sports car. Mahalo from Hawai'i :) P.S. I enjoy being under the hood and the car!!

[@allans7281]

You have that southern trustworthy voice thanks for the great info I actually owned the car in a five speed and it’s absolutely one of the best cars I’ve ever owned and driven truly is a big kept secret

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you! I appreciate you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment. Have a great day! 👍

[@siliconeii]

I have a 2007 Solstice GXP . I purchased the aftermarket performance tune and it became a different car. An amazing experience to drive it with 300hp and the increased torque at the wheels.

[@loriannjenkins9695]

I have a 2009 Solstice base model...it has 6,000 miles...it's a fun car to drive...Thanks for your video

[@danielschlapkohl4369]

I just bought a 2008 Solstice this spring in April and I absolutely love it! I did have to put in a new catalytic converter in it because the check engine light kept coming on after 60,000 miles, but after that it now runs great! I also did have to put a new engine cover on it also, as the old one rattled at higher speeds! Yes, it does handle like a go-cart! I drive it 90 miles a day at 5 days a week sometimes and on a very curvy mountain road in Montana! So, needless to say, I LOVE the way it handles curves as I have many of them on my daily commute! Thanks for the video!

[@VehicleVisionary]

You're welcome! Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment. 👍

[@jeffgrey2746]

Picking up a 2008 Solstice at the start of next week. It’s gorgeous, with a new paint job a perfect exterior, I cannot wait!

[@josephgriggs621]

I have one of the first 1000 made, badged Solstice. In 2006 they only came with a 2.4L engine. My Solstice is a liquid silver color, the same color that the windshield surround is on all of the cars. I bought it in 2010 with only 104 miles on it, so it was basically new. It had been titled but by a dealership in Maryland and I believe it was used as a show car. I have just over 18000 miles on it after 10 years. The one thing to watch out for are the door handles. GM did not do a good job designing and securing them. They can be easily replaced but costly if you have a dealership to do it. I love the car. By the way, its styling has NO relevance to the Miata; think more about a Jag XKE.

[@ApartmentKing66]

So do I. I've got the dash badge too. Got mine 2 years ago in April and have been steadily pouring money back into her both in terms of maintenance and in appearance.

[@Pizzamanrule]

I’m 21 years old and I’ve worked since 2019 to now, I’ve been saving my money to buy a nice vehicle I looked everywhere then my father found a Pontiac solstice with only 50,000 miles and it was in mint condition no rust or faded interior just brand new and I bought full cash I’ve never felt so proud to have a beautiful vehicle

[@VehicleVisionary]

That is awesome! Thank you for sharing your story.

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

What year & how much did it cost?

[@Pizzamanrule]

@@PerspectivePossibilities 2008 Pontiac solstice convertible I paid 15k for it

[@KB-ke3fi]

Loved my 2009, black, 5 speed. It was a great car. I had to sell it with only one year of payments left in 2017. Only had 49K miles on it, drove like a dream. I wish I could find it I'd buy it back.

[@kentlarue3299]

Nice video I've had my 07 gxp 5 speed for a ot 3 years, now has a ot 69k...I'm the 3rd owner i think. Looks and drives like new. You are right....handles like a dream and its a head turner. I was positioned next to a Ferrari at a local car show and the solstice looked highly respectable along Side and drew as much attention. t

[@rollinshoemaker571]

Great review! Much classier "European look" styling than the Mazda. More on the review: Driver's seat has a power switch (front edge of seat...half way down) to power the seat up or down. Found my GXP in June 2019 with 501 actual miles!!! Yellow...Stunning...Fast!!!

[@redlabel9294]

I've had my normally-aspirated 2006 Solstice since 2016. At 10 years old, it only had 16K miles on it. I've since put over 30K+ more miles on it, and it's been a pleasure. I'm nearly as apt to out there, top-down on a 35F Montana day as I am a hot summer day. I've.always referred to it as my "sexy go-kart" because of its crisp, tight, immediate handling. And outside of having the opportunity (and wallet!) to acquire a 2015-ish Porsche Boxter S convertible, or a new C8 convertible 'Vette... I could not be happier with this car. It corners in the tight, twisty MT and WY mountain roads like it's on rails and that crisp cornering ability more than makes up for its lack of power. I've spent hours driving a friends Ferrari 458 Spider and though of course that's in an entirely different league, my car is still fun to drive after an afternoon in the 458. That's how fun these cars are. The poor man's 458 or Boxter! :D

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience!

[@donwilbanks2226]

I've gone through a few V8 muscle cars since 1999. I had a '73 Trans Am 4 speed 455, a '68 Cutlass with a massaged 455 and a '78 Trans Am with the 400. I sold the '78 and bought a 2008 Saturn Sky 2.4 5 speed. I've been able to do things with the Sky that I couldn't do with the muscle cars... drive some cross country trips. South Mississippi to Cincinnati for a wedding and then to the Tail of the Dragon in TN & SC. I love this little car!

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you for sharing, Don!

[@tjscott395]

Where did you put your luggage?

[@donwilbanks2226]

@@tjscott395 In the trunk. I found a roll type garment bag at the local Goodwill that fits nicely between the gas tank & bumper. We've done some long distance motorcycle trips and camped on a Honda Silver Wing & Gold Wing. I packed like we were going on a bike trip.

[@jp_vlogz]

Awesome vid!!! Love mine! Just did a reaction video with my mom 😂 it was hilarious! Wish GM could have made a few more for sure!

[@DavidGutierrez-nt7ov]

Tom, Great presentation and review on the Pontiac Solstice. As a Car enthusiast the convertible solstice caught my attention when it first came out in 2006. I remember pulling up next to one on the freeway thinking it was a Jaguar X-Type from side to rear. It is certainly an attention getter on the road. Sure would love to see this car do a comeback. Hint Hint Pontiac!!!👍

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you, David! I appreciate you sharing your experience. 👍

[@tjscott395]

Pontiac as a brand no longer exists, so there’s no one to receive your hints. I think GM still owns the rights to manufacture it along with the Saturn, since they both fell under the GM Group, but I’m not sure. I’d like to see them return, but I’ve been advised that they don’t care about building this kind of car anymore because there isn’t much profit in them compared to trucks. That’s also why all the trucks have 4 doors nowadays - they’re selling them as a replacement for cars, not just people that used to buy trucks. Seems like they really don’t care what we WANT anymore.

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

Im hoping to buy an 06' w 37k tomorrow! It's in mint condition 😁 Same color except its the 5-speed maual. He wants $10,205 but i only have $9,500... I hope he accepts it!

[@wadespooner8788]

Looking to get a Pontiac solstice as my first car and reading negative and positive comments, I think it'll be a great car!

[@VehicleVisionary]

Based on my experience with this car I would definitely say you are correct.

[@Screna84]

Love my 2009 Solstice w/ 8,000 miles on it 💛 Thanks for the video

[@VehicleVisionary]

You're welcome. Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment!

[@jp_vlogz]

Serina Wolber awesome!! I have an 07 with 135k still going strong! 🦾😤

[@Snesboy09]

Great review. I love my pure white Solstice. Can't say I've thought about climbing in the trunk though!! I bought it 14 months ago and have put 3k miles on it. Summer driving only (and really only on weekends). Bought it for 13k and 56k miles.

[@VehicleVisionary]

Hopping in the trunk is something I do in many of my videos to make people laugh. 😀 THank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment. 👍

[@jimclark576]

Great review! I’m seriously thinking about buying one, and this was very helpful.

[@VehicleVisionary]

That is great to hear, Jim! Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment.

[@halokid1002]

People: this is a Pontiac solstice Me: No. It’s jazz

[@dannyr2976]

Yeah, me too!

[@Lion-xc1020]

Lol samee

[@lehuakey8778]

Jazzie

[@wayawolf1967]

With the GXP option the Solstice is a rocket ! Mine has a tune that brings it to 290 hp.

[@AidansCars]

I've owned a midnight Blue 2006 Pontiac solstice (one of the first 10k ever I believe) 104k miles and I've taken her to 126k in less than a year, I've absolutely loved every second and these csrs will make it past 200k easily. When she goes, I'll either swap an engine, or buy a new one. Anyone you ask absolutely loves their cars and they'll attest to legacy of their car. The modded exhaust community is something wild, you need to have the true sound of the engine coming through, it's beautiful. And the community is still strong after 15 years. 15 YEARS. I also drift my Pontiac, yeah, 126k miles and I'll drift her. She takes it like it's a regular day and the suspension is still OEM. Its getting replaced soon because the passenger rear is starting to rust away and break down but when that's replaced with the Z0K suspension and the back brace for chassis stiffness it'll be ready for heavier and longer drifts.

[@coltenwilcox8711]

My dad had one it's so fast it has competitive mode it would go 140 I love it that is no room

[@melanie7781]

One of the funniest cars with the best gas millage I have ever owned owned. I didn't like being a passenger it in though. It for a driver really. The cup holder situation sucked badly in this car. I sold a couple of years ago, just to small for my needs, but I miss it on pretty warm days.

[@vickyphipps5024]

I totally agree about the cup holder. Lame. Everyone has a drink with them.

[@lukeduenwald953]

Awesome video! Very informative. I've saved up my money for a while, and this is definitely one of the cars I'm considering. Thanks for helping me with my decision! 🤣

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

You get one?

[@sramBC]

I’ve a 2007 Saturn Sky! Love it!

[@JohnCollins-mm5dq]

I love them both , but I prefer the look of the sky

[@ambrizaaron]

I own a solstice gxp (turbo charged) and it's 260HP Its a beast!!

[@VehicleVisionary]

That definitely sounds like fun! Thanks for taking the time to watch and leave a comment.

[@marcf6806]

I have a 2006 Solstice with 238,960 miles. The steering is still tight, it really goes like it’s on rails.

[@blacksunray8532]

Has it been reliable?

[@ApartmentKing66]

Take good care of it and it'll last indefinitely.

[@monicakelly6273]

My husband bought me an 09' for my 30th birthday. TBH I feel it is not for me and am looking to sell it. It has 32,000 miles and my husband swapped the engine for something else. I don't know I drive my Subaru and the Solstice sits in the garage, and my husband takes it out about once a week so it gets some exercise. It is a pretty car, I just feel claustrophobic in it.

[@Dev-kf3uh]

Is the solstice available? You said the engine is being swapped for something else?

[@hochgonzalo8923]

I've owned both the base model and the GXP. The GXP is substantially faster than the base model.

[@AdultsAreTalking]

83 extra horsies will do that 😁🐎

[@RamblinGarage]

I've been debating snagging a GXP for my girlfriend, thank you for posting this!

[@VehicleVisionary]

You’re welcome! Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to watch.

[@krystlemurphy8514]

It's a great car. I have a 2007 GXP. Love it!

[@kirkrollins5591]

just got one a 2006 and love it.

[@ApartmentKing66]

Me too! Black '06, one of the first thousand. Got her 2 years ago April and love my baby girl. I put money into her every chance I get as it sadly doesn't look like she's had a lot of maintenance before I finally got her.

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

How's y'all cars doing now?

[@allans7281]

One other interesting point: even though there’s only two windows and a small cockpit, given the design of the windows you get wonderful air circulation with the windows down and top up

[@lehuakey8778]

Absolutely!! Windows were greatly designed.. and the door too!

[@Squeaks281]

I had a black one for 5 years and sold it about 8 yrs ago. Now I want another one 😊 it was a fun little car and very safe. I got in a major 3-car accident on the freeway once and went spinning across 4 lanes. The other cars got towed and I drove my little solstice away. The gas mileage was awful though.

[@lehuakey8778]

Wow!!

[@ApartmentKing66]

Well, that's not why you buy a Solstice; getting a Solstice for its MPG is akin to wanting a low-calorie banana split. They weren't built for economy. If I wanted a car that sipped gas, I'd get a Geo Metro or a Smart. In fact, I had two Metros when I was younger and did a lot of commuting.

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

​@@ApartmentKing66I heard it's good on gas. 28+ a gallon.

[@halnwheels]

@@PerspectivePossibilitiesIt all depends on your expectations. I have gotten 34 mpg pure hi-way for 50 miles manual trans. But if I’m in traffic and rowing the shifter I can get down to 20. It’s all fun in any case!

[@ZaeSk8z]

Question, I can’t find the answer anywhere, why won’t my aux show that it’s connected? And same with the cigarette stick, it won’t get power… please help me

[@freddyacevedo4915]

I'm trying to decide between buying the solstice or the neson 370z any advice or insight would be greatly appreciated

[@shivamb-s8k]

which one u bought, i was also confused like u ...was going to buy 370z but before i reached the dealer, the dealer said it sold out.So i bought the solstice red.....its much sexier than my gf bought it for 7.3k, it had 67k miles.

[@Yony_Gaming]

That’s so weird. I’m contemplating between a 350z or a solstice. Trying to learn manual.

[@user-tm1oy6ck4t]

I just love listening to your voice, never mind the review. Haha On the fence-- i hear bad things about parts availability. And the lack of storage... yikes. Makes the Smart seem spacious. But i do do do love the look, the Sky even more so, and it's damn fun to drive.

[@halnwheels]

If it's your only car then maybe you should have a concern. But you will be able to get most drivetrain parts, you might have to wait to have them shipped. I was able to get the torque rods for the trunk from a GM supplier with no problem. Remember, it' a parts bin car. There's an advantage to that.

[@MistaCreativity]

I’ve got the 2007 model, it’s really fascinating how it drifts with ease. Don’t know if this is normal or I’m just good at it lol. Not been able to do this with other regular cars

[@VehicleVisionary]

Probably both. 👍 Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment.

[@gameingscreen555]

It’s a shame auto makers don’t maker smaller sports cars especially where the interior is angled towards the driver

[@AidansCars]

As an owner, I can just say where this car lacks, it makes up for on the road, I promise you.

[@AidansCars]

I've owned her since 104k miles and I've taken her to 126k in less than a year, I've absolutely loved every second and these csrs will make it past 200k easily. When she goes, I'll either swap an engine, or buy a new one. Anyone you ask absolutely loves their cars and they'll attest to legacy of their car. The modded exhaust community is something wild, you need to have the true sound of the engine coming through, it's beautiful. And the community is still strong after 15 years. 15 YEARS. I also drift my Pontiac, yeah, 126k miles and I'll drift her. She takes it like it's a regular day and the suspension is still OEM. Its getting replaced soon because the passenger rear is starting to rust away and break down but when that's replaced with the Z0K suspension and the back brace for chassis stiffness it'll be ready for heavier and longer drifts.

[@stuff3890]

Yo my 16th birthday is coming around would you recommend getting a Pontiac Solstice or Pontiac GTO 2006 model

[@VehicleVisionary]

I have not yet reviewed a GTO but a friend has one so I will be able to give you an answer after shooting the video.

[@stuff3890]

@@VehicleVisionary Sounds great! Thanks man, I appreciate it a lot!

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

What did you end up getting?

[@zappatx]

I wonder how it compares to my 69 Datsun 2000? May pick one up!

[@bbb462cid]

What people don't understand is that this car model was brought to market for 1/10th the cost of a normal new model. It was quirte remarkable; that's not the result of "raiding the parts bins'" at all, you don't save 90 cents on the dollar doing that especially when you consider that 2007 saw a new engine development.. The enthusiasm for the car at GM was such that engineers were stealing time from other projects to work on it. They have their platform problems, as a new car my original one had one recurring problem in the 55K miles and four years I had it: noisy door latch strikers. That's it. Sole problem with the car and I drove it like I stole it. All factory parts, 290 bhp and 340 ft/lbs in a 2980 lb car: that's wat the GMPP turbo upgrade got you with the 5 speed. Never should have traded it in, but I got such a great deal on the trade and the LS3 I couldn't pass it up. Turns out that Camaro was the worst car I ever owned. Never was right from mile 47 when I got it. So I bought an '08 GXP 5 speed with 22K miles in 2019....and I've already doubled the mileage on it. These cars are fun.

[@Mr.Squash]

I love this car , i would like to get one

[@jondonahue7163]

To go fast around town: put it in the I auto-trans position. Then it will not, repeat not, shift from 3rd to 4th. Which means you can race up to about 70 mph and stay in the hp-torque power band. Over 70, go up to 4 position. Try to keep the revs between 4500 (max torque) and 5800 (max hp). Unlike old 4-cyl Ferraris, that's a broad 1300 rpm power band... perfect for a street car, but too wide for a track car. The Solstice is a delightful compromise, weighted on the street car side of the bargain. Lastly -- if I slide the passenger seat just a little bit forward, I can put an old 3" wide attache case behind the seat. Perfect!

[@ml4918]

I love my Solstice. I noticed some fool trying to kill some biker with his grass clippings.

[@dannyr2976]

I first time I knew of this car was from the first Transformers film as 'Jazz'.

[@mikem8690]

I’m just about ready to buy one at 60,000 miles. I may just pull the trigger after this video. Guys please tell me what you think, mike

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

You end up buying it???

[@thomasminton6994]

Beautiful car, I very much miss PMD.

[@H.E.M.]

They aged well in terms of design, doesn’t look outdated like most cars from the 06-09.

[@tedschmitt178]

The two seater market is too limited, so the Solstice would have long since been killed by GM beancounters anyway.

[@danieljohnson5174]

Edit to include GM made 30 2010s, 8 Saturn Sky, 22 Pontiac Solstice (Wiki). Nice review, but...I wish reviewers would remember to include that Pontiac did offer a (GMPP) factory tune for the 2.0 turbo model. The GMPP tune was/is installed by the dealer, and took the factory rated turbo from 260HP/260TQ rating to 290HP/340TQ (w/manual), and was still covered by the factory warranty. Aftermarket tunes have been available for years now that are both cheaper & more powerful than the GMPP tune. BTW, The Pontiac Solstice & Saturn Sky (also known as the Kappa platform) continue to have a very loyal following, and holds a yearly national event (canceled for 2020 due to Covid19). Plus the Kappa platform is very popular for hot rodders who like to install LS V8s into them. In addition,, the SolsticeForum & the SkyRoadsterForum have been in existence since before the cars were produced, and continue to be quite active, along with FaceBook Groups.

[@jasoncarter7458]

Looks like a fun car to drive but I would never fit with the top up. LOL

[@VehicleVisionary]

I barely fit with the top up at 5"10. LOL Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment. 👍

[@jp_vlogz]

Jason Carter I’m 6’4 I fit ok 🤷🏽‍♂️😂

[@stevebigfoot8864]

@@jp_vlogz That is good to know. I am only 6', but I 'sit' the same height as my 6'2" brother. I am wanting one to replace my M/C, which I can no longer ride, so road noise is a non-issue. Some concern with wind noise, due to the shape of the rear deck. But no one has mentioned it, so I guess that, too, doesn't matter.

[@tedschmitt178]

I’ve had my 06 for 6 months and the top has been up ONCE.

[@jaynorthman9296]

To be honest, the Solstice looks like it was designed to look like a Mazda Miata on steroids. LOL

[@halnwheels]

The Miata was undoubtedly the target for this car, but only in terms of performance and price. While they are both two seat roadsters, the inspiration for the smooth looks came from 1060's cars like the Cheetah. The Solstice is 3 inches wider than the Miata. This was important since the concept car that received so much positive response was this wide. In fact, Pontiac tried to narrow the car to reduce weight but everyone who was polled said it only looked right the way it was.

[@Raidersforlife229]

I own a 2007 gxp with bolts on and stage 3 tune. Man she's quick

[@VehicleVisionary]

I would love to drive yours! Sounds like a lot of fun. Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment.

[@2wrdr]

Tom, you really need to drive the GXP or Sky Redline. Instead of 177 HP try 260 bumped to 300 with just a budget tune. Then there is the chassis mods. Between the tune and chassis mods your looking at 800~1000 bucks of upgrades and that little car embarrasses some much more expensive cars. I threw in an extra 900 for some HP tires and talk about riding on rails! The GXPs and Redlines are now going up in value. I've driven mine 4 years now and can sell for it for more than I paid for it also due to the fact that I still have less than 26K miles on mine. I frequently get compliments and thumbs up. If you can find one with relatively low miles grab it. BTW, love your go-cart description, so true, it's that feeling of instant control.

[@hondagang5966]

I'm looking at buying one for my first car and the one's in my price range have higher miles on it do you think they are reliable because so of them look to good to be true for the price

[@VehicleVisionary]

Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment. From what I know, the solstice is a very reliable car even with higher miles on it. I hope you have good luck in finding what you’re looking for. Please let me know how it turns out.

[@hondagang5966]

@@VehicleVisionary thanks for the tip because I don't know much about these cars and I don't know how reliable they would be in the long run

[@VehicleVisionary]

You’re welcome! Also, here is a link to a video I just published this morning that might help even further. kzbin.info/www/bejne/moinqmuMYrOtmMk

[@williamferguson7212]

Looks just my old 2008 which I purchased new. Had it for 6 years and 32000 miles. Yes it was fun to drive but ultimately just to small for a one car owner.

[@ARUNKUMAR-gf3zv]

Can this be a daily driver car? When I eventually get it😊

[@VehicleVisionary]

Absolutely!

[@inspiredperceptions1791]

That is an interesting vehicle. It looks like they took a lot of styling from the Mazda Miata and used it in the Solstice.

[@jasontroll6356]

Your an idiot GM spent over 250 million designing and perfecting the solstice and the Saturn Sky not to look like a shitty Miata. I have the Saturn sky redline and it does 0 to 60 in under 4 seconds , you can’t compare a shitty slow miata. These cars are head turners and simply badass

[@jondonahue7163]

Actually, it seems to derive more from classic Italian sports racing cars... the small 4-cyl Ferraris before they went to V-12s. Miata? No. Had an MX-5 several years ago, a very different car. More room for the driver and much better seats in the Solstice!

[@arricammarques1955]

@@jondonahue7163 GM attempt at cloning the Miata MX 5. Mazda build quality surpasses GM.

[@tedschmitt178]

It IS a toy (it is one of my four vehicles).

[@billytscherne4643]

Would a 6'2" fit ?

[@pynappels]

I'm 6'4" and I drive one. I just can't see a traffic light that easily lol

[@anthonymignella8804]

ok definitely a car worth considering...It won't be my 77 Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am but a fun car for sure

[@VehicleVisionary]

Good point, Anthony! LOL Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment.

[@freetrial2268]

0:57 it really did

[@scott4825]

It seemed to me that GM put out some really beautifully designed cars in the mid 2000s and either due to poor marketing or a bad economy, they never really took off. So they put out the standard Solstice with a vanilla engine, and then the following year tossed in the performance engine it deserved and the press had already moved on.

[@jasontroll6356]

Omg go get the gxp turbo version of this car which is called the redline if this was the Saturn sky redline version. You are missing out on how fast these cars are cuz they are very light with a turbo smokes any car out there guaranteed. Get rid of this non turbo version. Seriously best fun fast car. I wish they make new ones, these are very underrated vehicles.

[@jasontroll6356]

I love my Saturn Sky Redline 0-60 in under 4 seconds, can your car do that ,,,, Doubt it and I get so many head turns. All around fun fast car.

[@AdamAve93]

Sadly GM would have killed this off anyways even if Pontiac stayed alive since it would have competed with the corvette. They’ve done it before to Pontiac.

[@mikeholland1031]

Nothing like a vette

[@AdamAve93]

@mikeholland1031 Most definitely not anything like the vette, but gm seems to shoot themselves in the foot with certain vehicles. Pontiac had the fiero, the firebird, and the solstice. All could compete with the vette easily if they had one more revision but were sadly canceled too soon.

[@mikeholland1031]

@@AdamAve93 I agree that GM tends to veto anything that rivals the vette. Look up the Pontiac Banshee. Many other examples too. Also heard that's why they never put independent rear suspension on the camaros.

[@AdamAve93]

@mikeholland1031 man, I'd love to see a banshee in person.

[@mikeholland1031]

@@AdamAve93 they only made 1 and I dunno if it survives.

[@noahsembly]

I heard that the blind spots are horrendous. Any one else have thoughts on that?

[@nancypolasek8662]

Yes. They're pretty bad when top is on. I've been in quite a few other cars that are just as bad tho

[@tedschmitt178]

Not with the top down which is how it’s supposed to be driven.

[@allans7281]

Correction still own and will never sell. Red exterior black leather fully loaded only 44,000 miles it actually thinks the track addition because it doesn’t have air-conditioning which I’ll never use I’ll take the lighter car

[@sam_ponce]

Would you sell it?

[@VehicleVisionary]

It doesn't belong to me but I can ask the owner.

[@williamwalter4992]

Tommy and Jimmy would never get Bill Batts in that trunk

[@VehicleVisionary]

😂

[@bobbysworldrox]

What's with the weird ass top drop operation? It's as if Pontiac never made a convertible

[@VitoC.]

Night and day compared to the Miata.

[@tedschmitt178]

It’s no big deal…just leave the top down and garage it when not driving.

[@patriciaervin5151]

Lv the car sorry they stop making it would like to purchase 1495 is a lot I feel it should be around 10 or 11 n parts I'm concerned about that will be paying cash get back please

[@omegacouchpotatoe5998]

awesome car GM could have killed the Mazda Miata but ..nope too much thinking

[@VehicleVisionary]

Good point!

[@omegacouchpotatoe5998]

I was given a chance to sit in a prototype Hard top at the GM Oshawa Ontario Canada factory and I loved it . The person in charge of the car saw me taking the picture of it and let me sit in it .. oohhhh

[@size742000]

I love my 07 it has 22000

[@jacobb_.251]

Looks like a Saturn Sky lol

[@Beagle12471]

Nice Car.... Not Car praparation??? MOTOR AND GLASS... ✌️👍🏁🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️

[@tcollier5460]

My mother has the exact car, white with black top.This car is so cheaply made,18 inch wheels with a 170 horsepower! It struggles to do the speed limit, she loves it because of its look! It's a piece of junk!The Miata is a much better option...The car only has 42000 miles on it, and the linkage in the gearshift broke! The Miata is a much better option!JUNK!

[@godofrock]

Funny GM kept a whole bunch of crappy cars during those years of recession. Once again when GM makes a decent looking roadster with performance that causes some shift away from the corvette they kill it. Example the last years of fiero which out cornered and out skidpadded the Vette thanks to the Lotus group. Here you have a fun good looking sports car for half the vette price. GM of course gives it the axe. But they keep the sonic i like the burger but the car meh, the astra what! Why? Should have been gone in 1995, the aztek need i say more, hummer H 3 or baby hummer or wanna be hummer or as we offroaders call them a trailblazer. actually more like a stuck trailblazer. Metro,ion , omega, park avenue, caprice, lumina aurora made from left over parts not even the good parts, the whole cobalt mess. I could go on but why? Two things GM will not do 1. Make a car that will routinely lasts over 100,000 miles without a major driveline, engine or electrical failure requiring overhaul or replacement. 2. Make a car which stands out enough from the rest to be noticed on the street (in a good way) that costs less than 25k otd.

[@pontiacGXPfan]

I miss this car too but the same time I can't help but think this car was designed almost specifically for women. just look at it. there's is hardly a straight edge on the entire outside of the car

[@halnwheels]

I have to admit that the most comments that I get on the street come from either kids or older women! But not exclusively.

[@JohnCollins-mm5dq]

Then look at its cousin the Saturn sky it has a more straight line front end look

[@pontiacGXPfan]

@@JohnCollins-mm5dq Sky had the front end like a pintsize C6

[@JohnCollins-mm5dq]

@@pontiacGXPfan ya I know, it's not rounded like the solstice.. I like both cars but I prefer the looks of the sky..

[@PerspectivePossibilities]

​@@halnwheelsI'm hopefully buying one tomorrow & I love cougars, so hopefully they look at mine too 🤣

[@jasonvogue4487]

Sky looks better

[@carson8851]

bro this car is sexy who wanna get if for me? i’m a girl btw…

[@bobbysworldrox]

I have a z4 but this seems like a poor man's version of it. I guess it was trying to compete with lower end roadsters like miata an saturn