2005 Pontiac GTO: What's New

Vehicle Overview
Few model names evoke the muscle-car era of the 1960s and early 1970s like the GTO. Introduced as a 1964 offshoot of the Tempest, Pontiac’s original GTO quickly captured the attention of youthful drivers who craved a strong V-8 and performance-oriented adds-ons in a relatively lightweight body.

Following an absence of three decades, the legendary GTO made a comeback as a 2004 model; it was based on the Australian-built Holden Monaro performance coupe. Like the originals, the new GTO had rear-wheel drive. A 350-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8 adapted from the LS1 V-8 used in base-level Chevrolet Corvettes was installed. A six-speed-manual gearbox and a four-speed-automatic transmission were available. Pontiac said the GTO could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds with the six-speed manual.

A new LS2 6.0-liter V-8 that produces 400 hp replaces the LS1 for 2005. Rather than a plain hood, buyers can get one with twin air scoops. A revised rear fascia has outlets for the new split dual exhaust system. Larger brakes and a driver’s footrest are installed.

Exterior
While developing the GTO, General Motors shunned any retro look and instead opted for a contemporary appearance that doesn’t stray appreciably from the Holden Monaro. Though it’s basically a Monaro underneath, the coupe features a Pontiac-signature dual-port grille. A wide, aggressive stance clearly suggests the fierce nature of the performance coupe. Alloy wheels hold 17-inch tires, but 18-inch wheels are optional.

Interior
Four adults can fit inside the GTO, which has 2+2 bucket seating. Black leather upholstery is standard, but hues that match the car’s body are available. The GTO’s color-coordinated interior extends into the door panels and instrument cluster. A six-CD changer coupled with a Blaupunkt 200-watt 10-speaker sound system, cruise control, keyless entry and a multifunction information center are standard.

Under the Hood
The new LS2 6.0-liter V-8 generates 400 hp at 5,200 rpm and 400 pounds-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Two transmissions are available: a four-speed automatic or a Tremec close-ratio six-speed manual. Traction control and a limited-slip differential are included.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes, daytime running lights and three-point safety belts for all seating positions are standard.

Driving Impressions
Even though the GTO has been criticized by enthusiasts for not being true enough to the original, Pontiac managed to inject quite a bit of muscle-car personality into the V-8-powered coupe. With the first-year V-8, a manual-shift GTO produced ferocious responses and snarling sounds. Though it quieted down in upper gears, noise never disappeared. Adding an extra 50 hp is likely to turn this coupe into an even more emphatic, snorting beast.

Like most muscle machines, the rear-drive GTO is more adept on straightaways than through serious curves. The ride is firmly taut, but it’s not unpleasant on the highway. While it’s not so bad on bumps, you get signs of imperfect construction during those stretches. The manual gearshift is inviting to use but it’s not as positive as some. The seat bottoms are short, but support is good.