1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Review (continued)
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Driving Impressions

Pontiac engineers concentrated on giving the Grand Prix a level of handling competence that's unusually athletic for this type car, and in general we think they succeeded.

The new unitbody structure is stiffer than the previous Grand Prix, which contributes to interior quiet and also enhances long-term structural integrity. The revised suspension does a very good job of, on the one hand, isolating road noise and vibration from the passengers and, on the other, giving precise, responsive handling on smooth pavement.

And without going into the electromagnetic wizardry of the Magnasteer, the steering has an exceptionally good feel, both when going straight ahead and when the road takes more than a few twists and turns.

The freeway ride represents Pontiac's interpretation of the feel associated with sporty European sedans. That is to say, instead of being overly soft and cushy to the point of wallowing down the road and imparting a feeling of sensory deprivation, the Grand Prix rolls down the highway level, even, well-controlled and confidence-inspiring. If there's any criticism to be made, we think it's in the area of shock damping, which is a tad too stiff to respond smoothly to sharp bumps.

But the feeling of being in control is ultimately more relaxing and comfortable than all the mobile sofas that were the American sedan staple for far too long.

While we've driven and enjoyed the rampaging performance of the supercharged GTP, we think the GT is the better all-around choice. A key here is the 3800 Series II V6. It makes good power, plentiful torque, and pulls the car across intersections or up freeway on-ramps with respectable zeal. It's smooth and unobtrusive, with just a hint of an assertive growl when the throttle is opened wide. And it's devoid of the hint of torque steer that goes with the supercharged engine.

The bottom line: we think the Grand Prix's all-around competence and performance will come as a very pleasant surprise. This car's dynamics more than measure up to its looks.