The automatic transmission works quite well, quickly sensing the driver's intentions and responding with the correct gear and shift speed. A big readout on the dash displays the selected gear when shifting manually. However, we were surprised and disappointed that the automatic did not have a better manual-shift feature. While a manual-shift feature seems unnecessary on a lot of luxury cars that it comes on, it seems to be missing in action on this sporty coupe.
Suspension is firm, if bordering on stiff, which translates into fun on smooth, windy roads and short trips, but wearing otherwise. The car plows initially when carrying a bit too much speed into a turn, but this is easily countered with the gas pedal. Turning off the traction control let's a driver hang the rear end out at will. (Pressing the T/C button briefly displays a neat digital graphic that tells the driver whether traction control is on.) Braking is linear, with good pedal feel.
Quick transitions from left to right aren't managed with the same finesse as, say, a BMW 3 Series, but this is no shame on the new GTO. It's not only still far and above its legendary namesake, which did one thing well and never mind stopping or turning, but also better mannered than its domestic competition, the Mustang. Not to mention, it has a real rear seat. Next Page