2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe Road Test

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 25, 2009

3:45 min

On paper, the GXP version of the 2009 Pontiac Solstice seems to have the specs to accomplish some pretty amazing feats. It packs an impressive 260 hp from a turbocharged 2-liter Ecotech inline four. That power runs through a six speed manual transmission and connects with the pavement through 245/45 Z-rated performance tires mounted on 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels. Point the Solstice GXP in a straight line and the story changes somewhat. 60 mph comes up in 5.5 seconds � 2 seconds quicker than a hardtop Miata. The GXP makes short work of the quarter mile, too. However, these numbers don�t necessarily add up to a great car. For example, the suspension feels under-damped, as if it�s soft enough to hit the bump stops as the car rolls though quick transitions between corners. And while this Solstice does manage a decent slalom speed, it�s well off the pace set by cars like the Mazda Miata and Nissan Z. There�s something missing with the Solstice GXP � it has much of the right hardware and turns in a few decent numbers. But the fun isn�t there � unlike much of the competition, this Solstice lacks precision. The steering is vague and seats are downright uncomfortable, plus the interior is an exercise in compromise. The same low-buck materials and odd ergonomics found in the convertible are transferred directly into the Solstice coupe � GXP trim or not. Like the Solstice convertible, the Solstice Coupe is offered in a more affordable, less potent, standard issue model. There you�ll find a 173 hp non-turbo 2.4 liter four but you still get attractive 18-inch wheels Both versions of the coupe get the same targa-style removable roof panel, but even this seemingly simple feature is less than perfectly executed. It�s not especially easy to remove, and once you have that roof panel out, you cannot store it anywhere in the car � you�ll have to leave it at home and hope the weather holds up. This all leads us to wonder: has anyone at GM ever driven a Miata? The Solstice Coupe does offer a little more rear cargo storage compared to the convertible, but the gain is modest at best and ultimately it still comes up short. You�ll have a tough time even with weekend luggage for two. The interior and top are things we might be able to forgive on a $20,000 sporty coupe. But when you run a $30,000 tab on the GXP model, the low points and missing performance are just too much to bear. On-cam out