In '62, when Pontiac released the first Grand Prix, I muttered: "There Detroit goes again, bouncing its image off of others peoples' trophies." Pontiac had never been near Grand Prix racing, not even as a spectator. I expressed some doubt that the American public could even pronounce the name right (which would be poetic justice). Bonneville, now that's another matter. That was earned.But Pontiac prevailed. My attitude mellowed. And I can say honestly that I like this latest Grand Prix a lot. I welcome the commitment GM is making to the function of the machine as a utilitarian transporter of people and things and a stimulator of the brain's pleasure center. Having car guys in charge matters.
Many Americans who turned to Europe and Asia for cars to suit their needs would like a reason to buy American again. Pontiac has given them grounds to consider the 2005 Grand Prix. It is hot to drive and cool to live with.
New Car Test Drive correspondent Denise McCluggage is based in Santa Fe, New Mexico.