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Much to the misfortune of our Jalop friends and despite a huge online competition (see here) that saw more than 18,000 different names being entered, GM decided to stick with the totally bland “
And what about the “El Camino” nameplate given the G8 ST’s resemblance to the classic Chevy? “We actually thought very long about El Camino,” said Bierley. “In the end, we felt it was more appropriate to honour the El Camino’s unique place as part of Chevy’s heritage and not use that nameplate on a
In a few hours,
Whilst Even though we warmly support our "amigos" over at Jalopnik who have launched a campaign supporting the name "El Camino", we'd like to hear what you think is the most appropriate name for the G8 Sport Truck. Mind you, since we deeply appreciate people with a good sense of humor, your naming propositions don't have to be serious... (Pic: Carscoop)
Joining the all-new Pontiac G8 Sport Truck Ute at the New York Show next week is the G8 GXP sedan. To make it simple, the G8 GXP is a more powerful and sportier version of the G8 GT. Power comes from a detuned version of the Corvette’s LS3 6.2-liter V8 that delivers 402 Hp and 402 lb.-ft. of torque (546 Nm). That’s compared to the 367 Hp, 6.0-liter V8 in the G8 GT. 
Moreover, the GXP will offer buyers the option of a new six-speed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission for those of you that aren’t contempt with the standard six-speed auto box. Pending final testing, the G8 GXP is expected to deliver 0-to-60 mph (96 km/h) performance of about 4.7 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 13.0 seconds at 108 mph or 174 km/h.
The G8 GXP features a few unique exterior details compared to the G8 GT like the different front fascia with a lower splitter and a distinctive rear fascia diffuser. The GXP rides on 19-inch polished alloy wheels wrapped around in 245/40R19 tires. The GXP will arrive in
PRESS RELEASE:High-Performance Flagship Combines Progressive Design and Powerful Performance
“More than just raw power, the GXP delivers the sophisticated yet exciting driving experience that enthusiasts expect in a car costing far more than the GXP,” said Jim Bunnell, Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager
Engine performance
The heart of the G8 GXP is the 6.2L LS3 small-block V-8, currently rated at 402 horsepower (300 kW)* and 402 lb.-ft. of torque (546 Nm)* pending final SAE certification. This engine is the newest member of GM’s small-block V-8 family. It features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block, high-flow, L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; unique camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; and high-flow fuel injectors.
The LS3 engine has an aluminum cylinder block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. Larger bores help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement. The block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads to enhance its strength and improve bay-to-bay breathing. New pistons were designed for high-rpm performance.
New, high-flow cylinder heads aid engine breathing and are based on the large port and valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L76 engines. The larger-capacity, straighter intake port-design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber, an effect augmented by large valves, measuring 2.16 inches (55.0 mm) on the intake side and 1.59 inches (40.4 mm) on the exhaust side.
Pending final testing, the G8 GXP is expected to deliver 0-to-60 mph performance of about 4.7 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 13.0 seconds at 108 mph.
Six on the floor
A new six-speed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission is optional on the G8 GXP. This next-generation manual smoothly transfers the engine’s power and torque to the rear wheels with a reduction in shift throw. The transmission features a host of refinements including premium gear synchronizers; stronger gears, housing, and bell housing; a single-piece counter shaft; and machined gear teeth.
The standard Hydra-Matic six-speed 6L80 automatic transmission is technologically advanced and robust. It uses a clutch-to-clutch operation and an integrated 32-bit transmission controller to deliver smooth and precise shifts. The six-speed has a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a “steep” first-gear. The result is strong launch acceleration along with “tall” overdrive ratios that lower engine rpms for better fuel economy and reduced noise.
A 3.27 final drive ratio comes with automatic-equipped GXPs, and a 3.70 gear is matched with the manual transmission. A limited-slip differential is standard.
High-performance suspension
The G8 GXP rides on the G8’s 114.8-inch (2915 mm) wheelbase with wide front ( 62.7 inches / 1,592 mm) and rear ( 63.3 inches / 1,608 mm) tracks. The four-wheel independent suspension is fully adjustable and is tuned for the highest performance in the G8 family. The GXP’s ride and handling was developed and validated on racetracks and highways around the world, including the famed Nürburgring racing circuit. It rewards the driver with sharp, immediate responses, as well as a well-balanced road feel during spirited driving.
The suspension employs a MacPherson strut design in the front and a four-link, coil-over-shock design in the rear. A direct-acting front stabilizer bar, decoupled rear stabilizer bar and lateral ball joints on the rear suspension deliver increased lateral stiffness for more responsive handling. The front suspension features fully adjustable caster, camber and toe; the rear suspension has fully adjustable camber and toe, for more precise tuning.
Steering and brakes
The steering rate for the GXP is tuned to provide immediate response with definitive driver feedback. Like the G8 sedan and GT, the GXP’s steering box is located ahead of the front axle line for a quicker, more direct feel.
The Brembo braking system matches the GXP’s boost in performance with an equivalent increase in stopping power. The system includes 14-inch (355 mm) vented front and 12.76-inch (324 mm) rear disc rotors, with special quad-piston alloy calipers in front. The alloy calipers on the rear brakes have single-piston actuation. The four-wheel disc brake system includes standard anti-lock brakes and traction control.
Wheels and tires
The GXP rides on 19-inch polished aluminum wheels with a special machined face. Performance-oriented summer P245/40R19 tires are standard, and a comparable all-season tire is available. Combined with the suspension and steering enhancements, this setup gives the GXP exceptional cornering grip.
Exterior styling
The G8 GXP exhibits strong
Interior amenities and comfort
The G8 GXP’s interior is driver-oriented with aesthetic and tactile details like instruments with a sporty appearance that match the car’s performance. Interior materials consist of satin and chrome trim and high-quality textured materials throughout. The instrument cluster glows with crisp, white light on the primary instruments.
Standard comfort and convenience amenities include:
The seats offer firm support to hold occupants in place during aggressive cornering. The standard heated leather seats were designed to deliver excellent comfort during long drives. They are available in Ebony or an Ebony/Red two-tone.
Safety
Maintaining the G8’s tradition of a full suite of standard safety features, the G8 GXP includes:
After all those rumors and speculations, it's finally true; the El-Camino is back in the form of the all-new Pontiac G8 Sport Truck that will go on sale in the North American market in late 2009. Just like its G8 sedan sibling, the Sport Truck is based on the corresponding Holden Commodore model, which bears the Ute nametag in But don't hurry and call it theSport Truck though because
Based on the G8 sedan, the Sport Truck has a longer wheelbase and a cargo bed (with an available soft tonneau cover). Additionally, there's 8.5 cubic feet (245 liters) interior cargo area behind the seats. Compared to the sedan, the 118.5-inch (3,009 mm) wheelbase is approximately four inches longer and the overall length is six inches longer. The cargo bed measures at 73.9-inch (1878 mm) in length and has 42.7 cubic feet (1208 L) of space while it can carry a payload of more than 1,074 pounds (488 kg) and tow a 3,500-pound (1,600 kg) trailer.
Power comes from the same 6.0L V-8 engine used in the G8 GT that delivers 361 Hp and 385 lb.-ft. (522 Nm) of torque. The V8 is matted to a 6-speed automatic transmission and according to
2010 Overview
Model: -2010 Pontiac G8 sport truck
Body style / driveline: -two-passenger, front engine, rear-wheel drive coupe-based sport truck
Construction: -unitized body frame, 2-side galvanized steel body with high-strength steel in chassis
EPA vehicle class: -truck
Manufacturing location: -
Engine
Type: -6.0L V-8 w / Active Fuel Management (AFM)
Displacement (cu in / cc): -364 / 5967
Bore & stroke (in / mm): -3.99 x 3.62 / 101.3 x 92
Block material: -cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners
Cylinder head material: -aluminum
Valvetrain: -valve-in-head; 2 valves per cylinder; roller lifters
Ignition system: -high-energy distributorless ignition; solid state direct-fire ignition w/ coil near plug and integrated ignition
Fuel delivery: -returnless, multi-port fuel injection
Compression ratio: -10.4:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): -361 / 270 @ 5300*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): -385 / 522 @ 4400*
Recommended fuel: -premium unleaded
Maximum engine speed (rpm): -6000
Emissions controls: -evaporative system, dual exhaust with close-coupled catalytic converters, equal-length exhaust, positive crankcase ventilation, electronic throttle control
Transmission
Type: -Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1): -
First: -4.03
Second: -2.36
Third: -1.53
Fourth: -1.15
Fifth: -0.85
Sixth: -0.67
Reverse: -3.06
Final drive ratio: -2.92
Chassis/Suspension
Front: -multi-link MacPherson strut; direct-acting stabilizer bar (24-mm dia.); progressive-rate coil springs; fully adjustable camber, caster and toe
Rear: -four-link independent; progressive-rate coil springs over shocks; decoupled stabilizer bar (12-mm dia.); higher lateral stiffness for handling through two lateral ball joints per side; fully adjustable camber and toe
Steering type: -variable-ratio rack-and-pinion; rack forward of front axle centerline
Steering ratio: -46-53 mm per revolution
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock: -2.8
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m): -38.4 / 11.7
Brakes
Type: -four-wheel disc w/ ABS; ventilated front and rear rotors; twin-piston front calipers; single piston alloy rear calipers
Rotor diameter (in / mm): -front: 12.64 / 321
rear: 12.76 / 324
Wheels/Tires
Wheel size / type: -18 x 8-inch machine-faced aluminum (std); 19 x 8-inch machine-faced aluminum (w / optional Sports Package)
Tires: -P245/45R18 summer tire (std); all-season tire optional; optional Sports Package includes P245/40R/19 summer tire
Dimensions
Exterior -
Wheelbase (in / mm): -118.5 / 3009
Overall length (in / mm): -201.8 / 5127.8
Overall width (in / mm): -74.8 / 1899
Overall height (in / mm): -58.3 / 1480
Track (in / mm): -front: 62.7 / 1592
rear: 63.3 / 1608
Curb weight (lb / kg): -3995 / 1812
Weight distribution (front / rear) -TBD
-
Cargo box -
Length at floor (in / mm): -73.9 / 1878
Width at floor (in / mm): -TBD
Width between wheelhousings (in / mm): -47.4 / 1206
Tailgate width (in / mm): -TBD
Inside height (in / mm): -TBD
-
Interior -
Seating capacity: -2
Headroom (in / mm): -38.8 / 985
Legroom (in / mm): -42.2 / 1071
Shoulder room (in / mm): -59.0 / 1501
Hip room (in / mm): -56.7 / 1439
Capacities
EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L): -TBD
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L): -TBD
Cargo volume (cu ft / L): -42.7 / 1208
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): -3500 / 1600
Payload (lb / kg): -1316 / 597
Fuel tank (gal / L): -19.2 / 73
Engine oil (qt / L): -8.9 / 8.5 (dry)
8.8 / 8.3 (w / filter change)
Cooling system (qt / L): -11.4 / 10.8
Rap stars, basketball players, singers, TV personas –you name it, every one is entitled to pimp a ride at SEMA. Curtis Jackson (ok, 50 Cent) on his behalf teamed up with In terms of appearance, 50 Cent’s dream G8 gets custom paint and exterior appointments, as well as a re-trimmed interior outfitted with a high-end audio system, 22-inch chrome alloy rims in Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires, tinted glass and a Borla stainless steel exhaust system. -Images and details after the jump
PRESS RELEASE - 50 CENT'S NEW WHIP IS A 500-HORSEPOWER
With lyrics that don’t pull punches and themes that are brutally honest, rapper 50 Cent (a.k.a. Curtis Jackson) has risen to the top of the hip hop scene. He’s also a passionate car enthusiast with a penchant for
Now, 50 Cent has teamed up with Pontiac and New York-based tuner to the stars, Will Castro, and his shop, Unique Autosports (the same shop featured on the television show “Unique Whips”), to build a one-of-a-kind G8 performance sedan. It debuted at the 2007 SEMA Show in
“Partnering with
The new G8 – which goes on sale nationally in early 2008 – is totally customized, with custom paint and exterior appointments, as well as a re-trimmed interior outfitted with an audio system that shakes the ground as much as 50 Cent’s three albums shook up the charts. The car is powered by an LSX 427 engine dyno-tested to more than 500 horsepower and assembled only with components available from the GM Performance Parts catalog or GM Parts.
Rockin’ the spot
The LSX 427 engine uses GM Performance Parts’ affordable, durable LSX cylinder block as its foundation. The engine assembly was filled out with a variety of production-based components used on the Corvette Z06’s 7.0L LS7 engine, including a forged steel crankshaft, lightweight titanium connecting rods, racing-derived aluminum cylinder heads and a complete LS7 intake/throttle body/fuel injection system. Engine operation is handled with GM Performance Parts’ new stand-alone LS7 crate engine controller.
Detroit-area Thomson Automotive oversaw the assembly, dyno testing and installation of the engine. From there, the car was shipped to Unique Autosports, on
“The most interesting aspect of the project is what we didn’t do to the exterior,” said Will Castro. “We didn’t add a body kit, spoilers or lower the car. The G8 has the right stance and appearance, so we only accented the original form with details that made it unique to 50 Cent.”
Inside, the G8’s black, leather-covered seats were re-trimmed with perforated red leather inserts – with similar trim used on the armrests. The 50 Cent/Unique Autosports logo was embroidered into the seat headrests and custom floor mats. The finishing touch for the G8 is an 800-watt JBL audio system, with complementing amps and a subwoofer.
“A first-class audio system was a must for 50 Cent, and this one rocks the spot,” said Castro. “In fact, the G8 itself just-plain rocks and makes a great platform to build a custom, high-performance street car.”
To be honest, we were expecting something more exciting from Pontiac as the Holden Commodore based G8 GT SEMA Edition is nothing more than a stock G8 GT 6.0L V8 with a custom orange exterior paint, orange-accented interior components, enhanced brake and suspension package, and 20-inch alloy rims. How about some goodies from Holden’s HSV department guys? -High-res images and press release after the jump
PRESS RELEASE:
Designed for enthusiasts who are passionate about performance, the all-new Pontiac G8 performance sedan – arriving at dealerships in early 2008 – is the first North American application of GM's new global rear-wheel-drive architecture. The V8-powered G8 GT SEMA Edition was displayed at the '07 SEMA Show with a host of tuner-inspired custom touches, including a hot orange paint scheme with matching leather seat inserts, door panels and instrument panel pad.
Under the hood is the production 6.0L V-8, rated at 361 horsepower (268 kW) and 385 lb.-ft. of torque (520 Nm). A six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control backs the powerful small-block engine and complements a four-wheel independent suspension outfitted with unique 20-inch wheels and performance tires.
The G8 GT SEMA Edition car is equipped with production equipment that includes:
Complementing the SEMA Edition is a series of modifications, including:
The G8 has a progressive styling package highlighted by strong
Distinctive elements include hood scoops and front fender vents, as well as projector-beam headlamps housed in crystal-clear lenses. At the rear, taillamps feature bright detail work surrounding the red lighting elements
We don’t know how but they did it; GM folks managed to import the Australian made Pontiac G8 to the States with reasonable price tags: the 260Hp 3.6L V6 base G8 kicks off at $27,595 while the 362 Hp 6.0L V8 G8 GT starts off at $29,995. Since the Pontiac G8 (see here) is nothing more than a rebadged Holden Commodore we went on to check Holden’s official site in Press Release
“The G8 represents the next phase in
The G8 is powered by a 3.6-liter VVT V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission and comes equipped with a number of standard convenience and safety features, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control, six airbags and OnStar. The G8 GT ups the ante with a 6.0-liter V-8 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and additional standard equipment.
Following the Pontiac G8’s
Technorati: Pontiac+G8, Video, Chicago+Auto+Show, Youtube, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007
And here’s the moment that many of you have been waiting for: at last, a rear-wheel drive sports sedan from Despite the fact that the G8 we see here wears a “show car” tag, as Pontiac notes, the only difference between the production version that’ll go on sale early 2008 and the “show car” concerns some minor details like the 20’’ rims. Talking about production version, the G8 will be offered in two guises; the G8 GT we see here that’s fitted with a 362Hp 6.0 V8 (available with two gearboxes, a six speed auto with manual shift mode and a 6speed manual) and the base G8 powered by a 261Hp 3.6 V6 (available five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode). -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the full Press Release and a high-res image gallery
Technorati: Pontiac+G8, 2008, Holden, Commodore, Chicago+Auto+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, images, pictures, 2007
“With the balance of rear-wheel drive and the availability of V-8 power, the G8 represents another step in
G8 GT show car details
The G8 show car unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show is representative of the production GT model, including use of the 362-horsepower (270 kW) 6.0L V-8 engine and optional six-speed manual transmission. The show car also features some unique items not found on the production model, including:
Production model details
The 2008 Pontiac G8 lineup will offer two models: G8 and G8 GT. Each will come with a host of standard performance, convenience and safety features, including:
A sport package will be available for both models and adds features such as specific wheels – including 19-inch aluminum wheels and performance tires on GT – a rear wing spoiler, leather shift knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel and alloy pedals.
Design
The G8 has a progressive styling package highlighted by strong
Distinctive elements include hood scoops and front fender vents, as well as projector-beam headlamps housed in crystal-clear lenses. At the rear, jewel-like taillamps also are mounted in housings and feature bright detail work surrounding the red lighting elements. G8 models have red taillamp lenses and twin chrome exhaust outlets, while G8 GT models feature clear taillamp lenses and quad chrome exhaust tips. All models have an antenna mounted at the rear of the roof.
Powertrain
The base G8 model receives a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing, rated at 261 horsepower (194 kW). It is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.
The G8 GT is powered by a uniquely configured 6.0L small-block V-8, rated at 362 horsepower (270 kW) and 391 lb.-ft. of torque (530 Nm). A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode is standard and features the fuel-saving Active Fuel Management system, which enhances fuel economy by alternating between eight- and four-cylinder power. An optional six-speed manual transmission will be available soon after launch. A limited-slip rear differential is standard with GT models.
Suspension system
A 114.8-inch (2915 mm) wheelbase, wide front ( 62.7 inches / 1592 mm) and rear ( 63.3 inches / 1608 mm) tracks, and a fully adjustable, four-wheel independent suspension system combine to give the G8 a confident, sharp driving experience.
The four-wheel independent suspension system employs a MacPherson strut design in the front and a four-link coil-over-shock design in the rear. Tuning is specific between the base and GT models, but both models use a direct-acting front stabilizer bar, decoupled rear stabilizer bar and lateral ball joints on the rear suspension. This system delivers increased lateral stiffness for enhanced handling.
The front suspension features fully adjustable caster, camber and toe; the rear suspension has fully adjustable camber and toe, which enables more precise, tailored suspension tuning.
Brake system
A four-wheel disc brake system includes standard anti-lock and traction control features and is partnered with a standard electronic stability control system. Both the base and GT models feature vented front and rear disc rotors, with twin-piston alloy calipers in front; the rear brakes feature alloy calipers with single-piston actuation. The brakes are approximately one-inch larger on the higher-performance GT model.
Interior
Designed to meld form and function with world-class fit and finish, the G8’s interior delivers both comfort and convenience, packaged in a level of sophistication not often found in its price range. A driver-oriented instrument cluster positions the gauges for easy, direct line of sight; an electronic driver information center is located between the large, round tachometer and speedometer.
Attention to detail includes jewel-like instruments, selective use of satin and chrome trim and rich-feeling, grained textures throughout. The instrument cluster glows with crisp, white light on the primary instruments and
The seats offer firm support to hold occupants in place during aggressive cornering; all seats were designed to deliver excellent comfort during long drives. Cloth seating surfaces are standard, with heated leather seating available. G8 GT models will also offer an optional two-tone cloth or leather combination that pairs black with either red or blue inserts and color-matched instrument faces on certain exterior color combinations.
Overview
Models:
Body style / driveline: 5-passenger, front-engine, rear-drive sedan
Construction: unitized body frame, 1- and 2-sided galvanized steel
EPA vehicle class: midsize sedan
Manufacturing location:
Key competitors: Nissan Maxima, Dodge Charger
Engines
3.6L V-6 (LY7) 6.0L V-8 (L76)
Application: G8 G8 GT
Type: 3.6L V-6 6.0L V-8
Displacement (cu in / cc): 217 / 3564 364 / 5967
Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6 3.99 x 3.62 / 101.3 x 92
Block material: cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners
Cylinder head material: aluminum aluminum
Valvetrain: dual overhead camshafts, 4 valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing valve-in-head; 2 valves per cylinder; roller lifters
Ignition system: electronic individual coil-on-plug; individual cylinder knock control and extended-life platinum-tipped spark plugs high-energy distributorless ignition; solid state direct-fire ignition w/ coil near plug and integrated ignition
Fuel delivery: returnless, multi-port fuel injection returnless, multi-port fuel injection
Compression ratio: 10.2:1 10.4:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 261 / 194 @ 6300 rpm* 362 / 270 @ 5700*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 250 / 340 @ 3200 rpm* 391 / 530 @ 4400*
Recommended fuel: regular unleaded regular unleaded
Maximum engine speed (rpm): 6900 6000
Emissions controls: evaporative system, single close-coupled catalytic converter, equal-length exhaust, single underfloor catalytic converter, positive crankcase ventilation, intake and exhaust cam phasers, electronic throttle control evaporative system, close-coupled catalytic converters, positive crankcase ventilation, electronic throttle control
Estimated fuel economy: TBD TBD
Transmission
Type: Hydra-Matic 5L40 5-spd automatic Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed automatic TR6060- six-speed manual
Gear ratios (:1):
First: 3.42 4.03 3.01
Second: 2.21 2.36 2.07
Third: 1.60 1.53 1.43
Fourth: 1.00 1.15 1.00
Fifth: 0.75 0.85 0.84
Sixth: -- 0.67 0.57
Reverse: 3.02 TBD TBD
Final drive ratio: 2.92 2.92 3.27
Chassis/Suspension
Front: multi-link MacPherson strut; direct-acting stabilizer bar; progressive-rate coil springs; fully adjustable camber, caster and toe
Rear: four-link independent; progressive-rate coil springs over shocks; stabilizer bar; fully adjustable camber and toe
Steering type: variable-ratio rack-and-pinion
Steering ratio: 46-53 mm per revolution
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock: 2.8
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m): 37.4 / 11.4
Brakes
Type: four-wheel disc w/ ABS; ventilated front and rear rotors; twin-piston front calipers; single piston alloy rear calipers
Rotor diameter (in / mm): G8 front: 11.73 / 298
G8 rear: 11.89 / 302
G8 GT front: 12.64 / 321
G8 GT rear: 12.76 / 324
Wheels/Tires
G8 G8 GT
Wheel size and type: 18 x 8-inch painted aluminum 18 x 8-inch painted aluminum (std); 19 x 8-inch painted aluminum (opt)
Tires: P245/45R18 P245/45R18 (std); P245/40R19 (opt)
Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm): 114.8 / 2915
Overall length (in / mm): 196.1 / 4982
Overall width (in / mm): 74.8 / 1899
Overall height (in / mm): 57.7 / 1465
Track (in / mm): front: 62.7 / 1592
rear: 63.3 / 1608
Curb weight (lb / kg): Base: 3885 / 1762
GT: 3995 / 1812
Interior
Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm): front: 38.7 / 989
rear: 38 / 965
Legroom (in / mm): front: 42.2 / 1071
rear: 39.4 / 1001
Shoulder room (in / mm): front: 59.1 / 1501
rear: 59.1 / 1500
Hip room (in / mm): front: 56.7 / 1439
rear: 58 / 1472
Capacities
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L): 124.5 / 3528
Cargo volume (cu ft / L): 17.5 / 496
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): 1000 / 454
Fuel tank (gal / L): 19.2 / 72.6
Engine oil (qt / L): 3.6L: 7.6 / 7.2
6.0L: 8.9 / 8.5
Cooling system (qt / L): 3.6L: 10.8 / 10.2
6.0L: 11.4 / 10.8
Taking advantage of GM’s global centers of engineering expertise, a series of vehicle architectures are being developed that can be easily adapted to the unique vehicle requirements of various regions. For example, global truck architectures are being developed in North America while midsize vehicle architectures are created in
“The rear-wheel drive engineering team has put together a simply spectacular car that captures the essence of
The Holden-engineered global rear-wheel drive architecture was designed to deliver world-class levels of strength and refinement, along with crisp driving dynamics, while serving as the foundation for vehicles sold in a wide variety of climates and road conditions around the world – from the desert-like desolation of
“We set out to lift the bar on what could be achieved with quality and refinement,” said Tony Hyde, Holden executive director of engineering. “We have gone over this car time and time again to reduce gaps and margins, ensuring that every fit is crisp and tight.”
For North American customers, the result is a tautly-designed rear-wheel-drive performance sedan that is ideally suited for
“We spent many hours refining the chassis to create that unique blend of steering precision, vehicle balance and handling that we believe driving enthusiasts will love,” said Doug Houlihan, G8 chief engineer.
Global, balanced architecture
The new global rear-wheel-drive architecture used for the G8 was designed to accommodate production for both left-hand drive and right-hand drive markets around the world. To ensure durability for the vast array of driving conditions and climates, the new architecture was designed with a robust, protected electrical system, superior climate control system and noise/vibration-isolating suspension systems.
Among the new architecture’s design attributes is a layout that promotes a nearly 50/50 front-to-rear weight balance ratio, thanks to design features that include a steering rack mounted ahead of the front axle, engines mounted low and rearward in the front chassis cradle and a rear-mounted battery.
Stiff structure
GM’s new rear-drive architecture has an exceptionally strong unitized chassis/body structure, including advanced-strength steel used in more than 80 percent of its construction. This strong foundation enables several factors than benefit the G8’s driving experience, including smoother, more solid ride characteristics and more precise suspension tuning, as the stiffer structure allows engineers to tune the suspension without having to account for chassis flex.
The stiff structure also enhances safety, as it helps absorb crash energy through a multiple load path strategy that includes optimized front-end and rear-end deformation zones. (See safety section below.)
Chassis and suspension
A unique, four-wheel independent suspension system is integrated with the G8’s structure, and is the result of eight years of development. It uses the strength of the body structure to enhance the driving experience through optimized steering, handling and driving control.
The G8 rides on a long, 114.8-inch (2,915 mm) wheelbase, with the wheels set wide on 62.7-inch (1,592 mm) front and 63.3-inch (1,608 mm) rear tracks. The front suspension features a multi-link, strut-type design that incorporates a direct-acting stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension uses a four-link independent design, with coil springs over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar.
The front suspension uses a hydraulically damped bushing on the forward end of the tension link for improved ride isolation. The lateral link feature a rubber spherical joint that enhances lateral stiffness. Camber, caster and toe are fully adjustable.
With the rear suspension, a high degree of lateral stiffness is achieved with the use of two lateral ball joints per side. A rubber-damped suspension frame further isolates the body structure from noise, vibration and road harshness.
Steering and braking
The steering rack is mounted forward of the front axle centerline – with dual lower links and individual ball joints at the outer ends – which enhances the balanced feel of the car while also contributing to a more direct steering feel. Steering rates are tuned specifically for the V-6-powered base and V-8-powered GT models.
Matching the vehicle’s handling and steering agility is a carefully tailored brake system that uses four-wheel discs sized to match each model’s performance. The higher-performance capability of the V-8-powered GT, for example, has larger brakes than the V-6 base model. The brakes are integrated with a standard electronic stability control system.
The basic brake design for all models includes twin-piston front alloy calipers and vented disc rotors, and single-piston, alloy rear calipers with vented disc rotors. ABS is standard.
Safety
Safety was one of the foremost goals in the design of the G8’s architecture. It combines a sturdy, crash-absorbing body structure and state-of-the-art passenger protection technology. Examples of these elements include:
An electronic stability control system is standard on all models, as is full-function traction control. These features bolster driver control during certain driving conditions, which can help avoid a crash.
Safety development included tests that represented occupants ranging in size from a six-month-old baby to a 95 th percentile adult male. Sixty-one physical vehicle safety tests were performed with the variety of test dummies, which helped optimize the structure’s front and rear crush zones.
Validation
GM’s global rear-wheel-drive architecture underwent some of the longest and most stringent testing and validation procedures undertaken by General Motors, which helped ensure its strength, safety and reliability in markets around the world. These procedures included:
Additional details
The G8’s new rear-drive architecture also incorporates a host of design and technology details that bolster comfort, convenience and quality. They include:
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