2004 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Pontiac Bonneville?
The Pontiac Bonneville enters into 2004 with a new GXP performance model in the lineup. Powered by GM’s Northstar V8 engine making 275 horsepower, its throaty rumble is showcased through a tweaked exhaust system. A sport-tuned suspension and a stability control system are standard on the GXP, as are 18-inch wheels halted by four-wheel-disc ABS with bigger front rotors than the outgoing SSEi model. A sleeker exterior that loses much of the SSEi’s cladding, a Monsoon stereo system, and a leather interior further distinguish the GXP from lesser Bonnevilles. Additional exterior colors are available for the rest of the Bonneville lineup, while 16-inch chrome plated wheels for the SE trim level round out the changes.

Advantages of the 2004 Pontiac Bonneville:

• Roomy cabin
• Comfortable ride
• Generous list of standard features
• Stout engines in both V6 and V8 forms
• Handles well for a large sedan

Objections to the 2004 Pontiac Bonneville:

• Overwhelmingly busy center stack controls
• Refinement levels don’t match those of other family sedans
• Rear seat could use more legroom

Editor's Advice:
Essentially a sound vehicle that shares its basic platform with the Cadillac Seville, the Pontiac Bonneville nonetheless suffers from a fussy interior layout, downmarket cabin materials and unimpressive resale values. In SE and SLE form, it provides a stable, cushy ride, and the V6 has more than enough power for daily driving. Once you get up to the GXP trim level where some real excitement can be had, the price climbs rather high, especially for a brand that’s not known as a luxury marque. Still, there are few true full-size, V8-powered sport sedans on the market; we think that the 2004 Pontiac Bonneville GXP is up to match the gauntlet thrown down by the Mercury Marauder.