[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-value-text”]Dynamically capable and emotionally evocative, Solstice entered the market as a worthy competitor for the Mazda MX-5. Overall, it matches Mazda’s roadster for performance, handling, and style–though not for practicality or powertrain punch. Of course, its uninspired engine performance, budget-grade interior materials, lack of refinement, and compromised ergonomics won’t matter much to buyers who love the idea of an affordable, fun-to-drive American sports car. The turbo GXP is notably faster, but otherwise suffers the same drawbacks as the base Solstice.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-overview-text” title=”Overview”]
Pontiac introduced its first true sports car for 2006: a four-cylinder, two-seat competitor to Mazda’s MX-5 (Miata). The Solstice roadster shared its new rear-wheel-drive architecture with the Saturn Sky, which arrived later–for the 2007 model year. Solstice had first been seen as a concept car at 2002 auto shows.
Solstice roadsters had a manual-folding soft top with a heated glass rear window. Sole engine was a 177-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder, shared with several General Motors compact cars. A close-ratio five-speed manual transmission with “short throws” was standard. A five-speed automatic arrived as an option later in the model year.
Weight distribution was close to 50/50, front/rear. Motorcycle-inspired gauges and race-inspired sport bucket seats greeted the Solstice driver, who faced a rake-adjustable steering wheel.
Four-wheel disc brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels were standard. Antilock braking, power windows and door locks, cruise control, and air conditioning were optional. Other options included a limited-slip differential, leather upholstery, satellite radio, and GM’s OnStar communications system. Side airbags and an antiskid system were unavailable.
Additional Solstice competitors included the Mini Cooper convertible, and even the more costly Honda S2000.
2007 Solstice
A high-performance GXP edition joined the 2007 lineup. Equivalent to the Red Line version of the new-for-2007 Saturn Sky, the GXP used a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine. Antilock braking, power windows and locks, leather upholstery, and cruise control were standard on the GXP and optional for the base Solstice. An antiskid system was standard on the GXP, but unavailable for the base model. The GXP featured specific suspension tuning. Side airbags remained unavailable on any Solstice model.
2008 Solstice
Newly standard on all Solstices were OnStar assistance and a “premium acoustic headliner” designed to reduce engine and road noise in the cabin.
2009 Solstice
A 2-passenger coupe with removable roof panel joined the lineup for 2009. A midyear addition was the Street Edition with the base engine along with leather upholstery, sport suspension, and polished alloy wheels. A wireless cell-phone link was newly available.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Engines”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text title=”Engines” disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-engine-section-head”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-powertrains”]longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-powertrain-text”]Only a base-model Solstice was offered in 2006, with a 177-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Either a five-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic could be installed. Launched for 2007, the high-performance GXP held a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produced 260 horsepower, offered with either transmission.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_table style=”style2″ el_class=”used-engine-specs”]
Acceleration is generally satisfying in base form, stronger yet from the GXP. Slow-to-rev but fast to turn coarse, the standard four-cylinder is no high-performance engine. Still, Solstice is quick enough off the line to lend credence to Pontiac’s claim of 0-60 mph acceleration in 7.0 seconds–with either transmission. Expect plenty of pep for most needs, though highway-passing power is modest. The turbo delivers strong power after an initial delay for turbo lag. Automatic transmissions elicit no real penalty. The manual gearbox’s shifter has positive throws, but less-than-fluid engagement.
Fuel economy is about on par for a small sports car. Regular Solstices averaged 23 to 25.2 mpg in mostly highway driving. In city/highway driving, a manual-shift model averaged 20.8 mpg. An automatic Solstice averaged 18.1 mpg in mostly city runs. Pontiac recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
For a sports car with 18-inch tires, the Solstice is impressively compliant and composed over most bumps. No float or wallow occurs on high-speed dips and swells, though the ride gets “busy” on rippled freeways–jiggly on wrinkled pavement at highway speeds. Solstice suspensions are tuned slightly tauter than the Saturn Sky’s but the difference is hard to detect. The GXP’s sport suspension is tauter yet and transmits somewhat more impact harshness.
Pontiac hits the mark for sporty fun, especially in GXP form. Responsive steering provides just the right degree of road feel. Quick and well balanced through turns, the Solstice maintains good grip, even in bumpy corners–though large bumps can upset the GXP. Solstices are also confidently stable at highway speeds and in strong crosswinds.
Engines get buzzy or boomy, depending on rpm–loud enough to drown most tire noise. No high-tech engine sounds here, and the buzzy exhaust note is a constant companion. Top-down wind rush challenges conversation. Test cars have had some panel squeaks, plus annoying top-up wind whistle from side windows due to poor sealing.
Basically spartan, the dashboard holds simple, easily accessed controls–but some are awkward to reach in the tight cockpit. Gauges sit in deep tunnels and have overstyled graphics, making them hard to read even in daylight. For some drivers, they may be obscured by the steering-wheel rim. Impractical cupholders demand an awkward rearward reach. Frequently-touched cabin surfaces are padded, but decor is otherwise dominated by hard plastic, thin-feeling panels.
Tighter for six-footers than Mazda’s MX-5, the Solstice offers acceptable leg space and good top-up headroom. Larger occupants may want more shoulder room. Shorter drivers will find the seating position quite low, but there’s good lateral and lower-back support, despite absence of lumbar adjustment. Low seats also make entry/exit a chore. The double-hump rear bulkhead obstructs vision over the shoulders and rearward for shorter drivers, and the top-up view to the sides isn’t great–though the rear view generally beats most convertibles. The top cannot be lowered or raised without getting out of the car to manipulate the folding mechanism, rear-roof pegs, and trunklid.
Cargo space is meager at best. The fabric top lowers into the trunk, which has a lid hinged at the rear, leaving room for little more than a briefcase. Top-up, there’s enough space for one large golf bag or two small ones. Top-down, most usable volume is sacrificed. Precious little interior small-items storage space is available, even by sports-car standards.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_content_box icon=”icon-road” heading=”Ratings” el_class=”ratings-box”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″]Model Tested: Pontiac Solstice (base) w/manual[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″ el_class=”review-slideshow-caption”]Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-performance-ratings” title=”Performance”][mk_skill_meter title=”Acceleration – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Fuel Economy – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Ride Quality – 5″ percent=”50″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Steering/Handling – 9″ percent=”90″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Quietness – 2″ percent=”20″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Accommodations” el_class=”used-accomodations-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Controls/Materials – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Front – 5″ percent=”50″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Rear – 0″ percent=”00″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Cargo Room – 1″ percent=”10″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Other” el_class=”used-other-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Value – 5″ percent=”50″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-ratings-total”]
Air conditioner
Description: There may be a growling or buzzing noise when the A/C is on caused by either loose A/C compressor bolts, the evaporator tube rubbing on the dash or a buzzing thermal expansion valve (early production). (2006-08)
Air conditioner
Description: The air conditioning may vary with vehicle speed, getting warmer the faster you go, requiring a more efficient A/C condenser. (2006-07)
Engine stalling
Description: Intermittently, the engine may not start, may start and die or may have long crank times due to twisted terminals in the fuse block connector under the hood. (2006-08)
Keys
Description: The key may be hard to remove from the ignition and an improved lock cylinder is available. (2006-09)
Vehicle noise
Description: The shifter may rattle against the trim ring requiring the trim piece be glued in place. (2006)
Convertible top
Description: Numerous problems with the convertible top include a top that does not seat properly to the car body, rattling from the trunk when stowed, water leaks at the rear window, and/or difficulty raising or lowering the top. (2006)
Convertible top
Description: The convertible top may not go all the way up or may not stow properly because the drive link socket comes loose. (2006-07)
Electrical problem
Description: When using a portable music player (e.g. iPod) there may be noise in the car’s speakers whenever the vehicle’s power adapter is used and a ground loop isolator (from Radio Shack) is required between the device and the power outlet to prevent the noise. (2006-07)
None
Description: Fluid may leak from the rear differential requiring the original vent cap be replaced with a vent hose. (2006-07)
2006-07
Description: The rear axle pinion seal may experience a fluid leak. Dealers will replace the pinion seal.
2008
Description: Seatbelt stud fasteners may break in the event of a crash and may not restrain the occupant as intended, increasing risk of injury to the occupant. Dealers will inspect the studs and, if necessary, remove the stud and install a bolt.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”hidden-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_accordions style=”fancy-style” action_style=”accordion-action” open_toggle=”0″ container_bg_color=”#fff”][vc_accordion_tab title=”Equipment Lists”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″]Click on year to see equipment lists for all models offered for that model year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=”2006″][mk_table style=”style1″ el_class=”used-equipment-table”]
Limited-slip differential, antilock brakes, sport suspension. Deletes OnStar assistance system. Replaces CD/MP3 player w/CD player. NA w/5-speed automatic transmission or other options.
Powertrain
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
5-speed automatic transmission
925
823
Limited-slip differential
Base
195
174
Safety
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Antilock brakes
Base
895
797
Includes traction control, antiskid system. Requires Preferred Pkg., limited-slip differential.
Comfort & Convenience Features
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Air conditioning
Base, GXP
960
854
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
Base, GXP
295
262
Requires Monsoon sound system.
Monsoon sound system
Base, GXP
395
352
Requires AM/FM/CD/MP3 player or AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Limited-slip differential, antilock brakes, sport suspension. Deletes OnStar assistance system. Replaces CD/MP3 player w/CD player. NA w/5-speed automatic transmission or other options.
Powertrain
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
5-speed automatic transmission
925
823
Limited-slip differential
Base
195
174
Safety
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Antilock brakes
Base
895
797
Includes traction control, antiskid system. Requires Preferred Pkg., limited-slip differential.
Comfort & Convenience Features
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Air conditioning
Base, GXP
960
854
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
Base, GXP
295
262
Requires Monsoon sound system.
Monsoon sound system
Base, GXP
395
352
Requires AM/FM/CD/MP3 player or AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Street Edition adds: air conditioning, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, Monsoon AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, wireless cell phone link, floormats, fog lights, sport suspension, polished alloy wheels
GXP adds to Base: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, wireless cell phone link, floormats, fog lights, sport suspension, 245/45WR18 tires, polished alloy wheels
Optional Equipment
Option Note:
Major Packages
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Preferred Pkg.
Base
$625
$556
Power mirrors and windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry.
Convenience Pkg.
Base
395
352
Cruise control, fog lights.
Premium Pkg.
Base
740
659
Premium Pkg.
GXP
575
512
Leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls (Base), wireless cell phone link (Base). Base requires Convenience Pkg.
Club Sport Pkg.
Base
1095
975
Sport suspension. Deletes OnStar assistance system. Replaces CD/MP3 player w/CD player. NA w/5-speed automatic transmission or other options except rear spoiler.
Powertrain
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
5-speed automatic transmission
995
886
Comfort & Convenience Features
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Air conditioning
Base, GXP
960
854
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
Base, GXP
295
263
Requires Monsoon sound system.
iPod adapter
100
89
Monsoon sound system
Base, GXP
395
352
Requires AM/FM/CD/MP3 player or AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Floormats
Base
80
71
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Rear spoiler
275
245
Metallic brake pedals
Base, GXP
115
102
Special paint
Base, GXP
195
174
Premium paint
Base, GXP
295
263
Polished alloy wheels
Base
545
485
Chrome alloy wheels
Base
795
708
Chrome alloy wheels
GXP
545
485
[/mk_table][/vc_accordion_tab][/vc_accordions][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”visible-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Equipment Lists”]Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Pricing”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-pricing-text” title=”Pricing”]Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section]
