Video: 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP

One of the most notable changes to the GXP is the addition of a manual transmission, which is not available on the GT. It's optional equipment on the GXP. Whereas the automatic comes standard. Now the cosmetic changes on the GXP are subtle, but includes stitching on the seats. As well as badges on the front fenders. And also these 19 inch wheels. Now when the G8 originally debuted a few years ago at the auto show, they had this wheel design that we didn't think we would see in any production through the gate. But here it is on the GXP. On the front, there's also a new lower styling. Now also new that the GXP is the 6.2 liter V8. It's borrowed from the Base Corvette base 400 horse power. One of the previous complaints we had about the G8 GT was that it was too quiet. You couldn't really hear the exhaust. Well, problem was solved with the GXP. (exhaust drowns out speaker) much roadier, much deeper tone than the Base CT. So let's go for a drive. (upbeat music) So the roads we're driving, it's hard to tell if the GXP is significantly faster than the regular GT, but with the addition of the manual transmission and the sweet sounds coming from behind us, it just makes the GXP a much more engaging driving experience. Now the GXP has a really weighted to feel to it. And a steering wheel is more similar to BMW than a traditional Pontiac that the Cadillac CTSV actually seem to have lighter steering than the GXP. Despite being $40,000, there's still no navigation system offered in the GXP, which is a problem that plagues the regular G8GT as well. The interior quality is still not as good as we'd like it to be. A couple of panels move around here. And the overall materials just aren't that great. This GXP costs $39,000. Now the Base G8GT cost $31,000. Is it worth $8,000 dollars to get a manual transmission on the G8? Well, maybe if you're a Pontiac enthusiast. <v Narrator>For additional information on this car or any other, go to cars.com and our blog "Kicking Tires."