In a world of 500 horsepower performance cars, the Pontiac Solstice might look like a pipsqueak. But don’t you believe it.
With a 173- horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine dropped in a lightweight, convertible body, the rear-wheel drive Solstice is a classic little roadster that’s great big fun to drive. If you feel the need for more speed, check out the top-of-the-line GXP version’s 260-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Add a firm suspension and a curvy stretch of road and you’ll understand why this simple design formula has remained popular for more than 50 years.
As is the case with most sports cars, the Solstice’s interior feels a tad cramped. Other downsides inside include a noticeable lack of places to stash odds-n-ends and lots of hard plastics that cheapen the overall look and feel. The tiny trunk also offers precious little cargo room with the roof up and even less with it down, meaning you’re either going to need a second vehicle or learn to pack light for weekend getaways.
Ultimately, there’s no arguing the fact that the Solstice is a toy. But, like the best playthings, it’s got what it takes to provide hours of entertainment.
Strengths:
Classic roadster look and feel
Great fun to drive, especially in GXP trim
A toy, but an inexpensive one
Weaknesses:
Interior short on storage
Miniscule trunk
Bottom Line:
Small price tag and big performance add up to a heck of a lot of fun.
Pricing:
Base price: $22,785
As Tested: $24,890
Safety Features:
Antilock disc brakes
Electronic stability/traction control
Multi-stage front airbags
Tire pressure monitoring system
Electronic communications system (OnStar) with emergency services
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA: Frontal crash: four stars, driver and passenger; Side crash: four stars, front; Rollover: four stars
Front fog lights|Rear spoiler|Sport-tuned suspension|Air conditioning|Leather upholstery|Power windows, locks, and outside mirrors|Cruise control|Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob|Carpeted floor mats|Monsoon premium audio system|6-disc in-dash CD changer
Safety features
/*Antilock Brakes:*/|Standard on some, optional on others|/*Electronic Stability Control:*/|Standard on some; optional on others|/*Traction Control:*/|Standard on some; optional on others|/*Multistage Front Air Bags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Impact Air Bags:*/|Not available|/*Side-Curtain Air Bags:*/|Not available|/*Active Front Head Restraints:*/|Not available|/*Tire-Pressure Monitor:*/|Standard
Standard features
/*Base:*/|Halogen auto-on/off headlights|Manual folding convertible top|Glass rear window with defogger|Intermittent windshield wipers|Cloth upholstery|Manual windows, door locks, and outside mirrors|Tilt-adjustable steering column|Antitheft security system|AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers|XM® satellite radio|Auxiliary audio input jack|OnStar®|/*GXP adds:*/|2.0L turbocharged engine|Front fog lights|Special bodywork and badging|Four-wheel antilock disc brakes|Limited-slip rear differential|Dual exhaust with polished stainless steel tips|Sport-tuned suspension|Electronic stability control|Tire-repair kit with inflator and sealant|Power windows|Power door locks|Power-adjustable outside mirrors|Keyless entry|Cruise control|Carpeted floor mats|Turbo-boost gauge|Leather-wrapped steering wheel|Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
Warranty
/*Bumper-to-Bumper:*/|3 years/36,000 miles|/*Powertrain:*/|5 years/100,000 miles|/*Corrosion:*/|6 years/100,000 miles|/*Roadside Assistance:*/|5 years/100,000 miles
