Pontiac Shows Off G6 GXP Show Car
For this year’s New York International Auto Show, Pontiac will be presenting a show-car display version of the G6 Coupe called the GXP Show Car. This is an important vehicle for GM, as the brand claims a 25 percent retail sales gain by the G6 so far this year; a critical element behind GM’s turnaround, not to mention Pontiac’s overall relevance.
The new addition to the GXP performance series, on sport-tuned lineup that currently includes a hopped-up Grand Prix GXP and recently introduced Solstice GXP, has sportier, sleeker styling than current G6 models, giving buyers something to look forward to.
Pontiac Product Director, Dennis Maraone explained in a release why they waited to add GXP technology to the G6. “Although the GXP performance series has been very successful in the past, we’ve never attempted to introduce a GXP on our largest volume vehicle and we want to be sure we do it right. We believe the package of exterior, interior and performance enhancements we’ve put together on the G6 GXP show car should appeal to 2+2 coupe enthusiasts.”
Powering the coupe concept is a modified 3.9-litre V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission. Engine performance is augmented by tweaking the variable valve timing system, linking a ram air induction system with K&N air filter to a cat-back free flowing exhaust which boosts engine output to 270 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This is definitely a step up from current G6 GTP models, which sports the same motor, but only tuned for 240 maximum horsepower.
Significant changes were also made to the G6 GXP’s exterior styling. Up front, a redesigned fascia with a lower air dam has been added. Pontiac’s signature twin-port grille has a chrome treatment, which extends down, much deeper than the standard grille. In the rear, you will find a dual chrome-tipped exhaust, hinting at the engine’s enhanced power output, and a hammerhead spoiler that’s sure to catch the eye of passersby. Also adding to the aerodynamic styling upgrades are side rocker panels. The coupe show car rolls on 19-inch wheels with vented, cross-drilled Wilwood brake rotors. To give the car a more ground hugging appearance and lower its centre of gravity for better handling, the GXP’s suspension height was dropped by 25 mm.
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