2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP Preview

GM’s entry-level sportster, the Pontiac Solstice has been the talk of the auto world since it’s release in 2002. Good looks, light, speedy and nimble on the road, the Solstice has given popular light sports cars such as the Mazda Miata a run for their money. So it’s no wonder that for 2007, General Motors will be building on this success to give the motoring icon the performance credentials to put it up against the BMW Z4, Honda S2000 and Nissan 350Z. Even the Porsche Boxster may get a shove.

GMs approach to taking on the upper-end of this market is an all-new 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder motor that has been turbocharged. The most powerful second-generation Ecotec motor currently in production, generating around 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, this super car is nudging 130 horsepower per liter. The engine has evolved from the GM range that includes the 240 hp 2.0-liter turbo in the Opel Astra OPC/VXR.

To improve efficiency and performance, the engine receives variable valve timing with dual camshaft phasing. GM will also introduce SIDI, Spark Ignition Direct Injection, making this their first North American engine featuring direct injection. The SIDI system benefits the engine by converting highly pressurized gas into a fine mist, which is then injected directly into the combustion chamber. In this state, less fuel is needed to cause ignition, the engine can runs leanly, and more efficiently. The Solstice GXP will be EPA rated at 20-mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

With SIDI and VVT to boost power, the 260 lb-ft of torque will be reached by redesigning the engine’s turbo charging system. The engine will have a lightweight, twin-scroll system. This will spool very quickly, and be allied to an air-to-air intercooler that will make the throttle response instantaneous.

In addition, with springs and dampers at all four corners, a limited slip differential, and the StabiliTrak stability control system, the Pontiac Solstice GXP will be a quantum leap over previous Solstice models. With a choice of five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic, the Solstice GXP is expected to reach 60 mph in less than 5.4 seconds. Top speeds are not known, but around 145 mph has been suggested. New front and rear fascias, 18-inch wheels, and chromed exhaust ends combine with exterior embellishments such as red interior trim stitching and GXP gauges to be further refinements.

Standard equipment includes power windows and mirrors and keyless entry for better security. A multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, ABS brakes, and a digital information system are also standard. Options include leather-trimmed seats, chrome wheels, metal pedals and an XM Satellite radio.

At under 20K the regular Solstice is a bargain, however the GXP looks like being superb value at an estimated $24,500. Available in US dealerships in fall, 2006, the GXP is worth waiting for.

Pontiac Solstice News

When Bob Kutz says jump, GM designers ask "how high" - Chicago Tribune - Wed, 03 Mar 2010 21:04:09 GMT+00:00

When Bob Kutz says jump, GM designers ask "how high" Chicago Tribune The concepts are the Pontiac Solstice roadster, Chevrolet Bel Air coupe and Cadillac Cien roadster.Cien was in the works before Lutz arrived, ... Clock ticking, very slowly, on Lutz's GM termChicago Tribune Lutz's pursuit of creative tension at GMChicago Tribune all 3 news articles »

Woman flown to hospital after flipping her car - San Diego Union Tribune - Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:49:53 GMT+00:00

Woman flown to hospital after flipping her car San Diego Union Tribune EAST COUNTY — A woman was flown to a hospital after flipping her Pontiac Solstice convertible north of ...

Lutz at GM says it's time to retire - UPI.com - Wed, 03 Mar 2010 23:16:21 GMT+00:00

Globe and Mail

Lutz at GM says it's time to retire UPI.com Lutz, whose influence is seen in the Dodge Viper, the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and the discontinued Pontiac Solstice, made a name for himself in 2008 by ... Having Reinvigorated Design at GM, Bob Lutz Is RetiringDailyFinance Lutz Plans to Retire From G.M. in MayNew York Times Bob Lutz talks of 46 years of successes, 1 regretChicago Tribune The Detroit News -Examiner.com all 503 news articles »

AMP's Saturn Sky/Pontiac Solstice EV Conversions Will Use Remy Electric Motors - Gas 2.0 (blog) - Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:29:52 GMT+00:00

AMP's Saturn Sky/Pontiac Solstice EV Conversions Will Use Remy Electric Motors Gas 2.0 (blog) The Kappa cars, the Saturn Sky and Pontiac Solstice, are as dead as their respective brands. But AMP is still proceeding with its conversion plans, ...

AMP Announces Chevy Equinox Electric Conversion With 150 Mile Range - Gas 2.0 (blog) - Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:41:47 GMT+00:00

EV World

AMP Announces Chevy Equinox Electric Conversion With 150 Mile Range Gas 2.0 (blog) AMP, the EV company best know for it's Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky conversions, is moving on up in the world… up in size that is. ... AMP Unveils the 100% Electric GM Chevrolet EquinoxIndia Business Blog (blog) all 4 news articles »