I didn't notice that anyone posted anything about these, so here goes.

In late 2009, Pontiac will offer a "sport truck" version of the G8. The best way to describe it is to call it a new version of the El Camino. 361 Hp 6.0L V8, 73" cargo bed, sedan front end...not bad really.

There'* also the GXP version of the G8 sedan, also with the 6.0L. Interesting stuff, IMO.

Here'* a quick link to view them as shown at the New York Auto Show. There'* plenty more info on the web if you're interested.

G8 pics galore and some of the new Solstice Coupe

yukkk lol i dont like the truck. i dont really see it doing real well kinda like the ssr. but the cars are nice

Well, the El Camino and it'* Ford counterpart, the Ranchero, were also polarizing vehicles. They are definitely a niche market. People either will love this or hate it, I'd guess.

I don't think I'd actually call that a truck, despite it'* current handle. It'* more of a car-based hauler.

BTW, it'* rated to tow 3500 lbs.

Personally, I believe that there really is a niche market for this type of vehicle. It could do well if Pontiac gauges the market correctly and doesn't over-produce or have expectations too high for the niche they're targeting.

Actually, I believe the G8 GXP is supposed to get the 6.2L LS3.

My information also is a 6.2L in the GXP.

On another note, I also understand that custom orders won't be possible with the G8. You have to select from (IIRC) one of eight pre-configured "packages". This may limit my interest.

correct, the GXP will have the 6.2, the "truck" gets the 6.0

this is directly off the Pontiac web site

Personally, I never liked the look of the El Camino. Maybe it'* just me but a car is a car, not a truck wanna-be. I doubt I'd ever consider a G8 in a similar body style.

Considering the expanding market for "niche" vehicles, I wouldn't be surprised if it does well.
I think they HAVE made a serious mistake not cashing in on the heritage market my making it a Chevy ElCamino.
None-the-less, I would hit that...if I can afford a new car by the time it comes out, it'* all mine...BTW, I don't need the GXP, the 6.0 already has plentiful power, and potential for much, much more.


EDIT, BTW, the Australian term for ElCamino type vehicles is "ute", and they're extremely popular down there.

Here Brian, go ahead and submit your name choice for it here:

http://pontiac.emipowered.net/tamethename/

There'* a contest to name it. El Camino is a good candidate IMO, but remember that that was a Chevy tag. Pontiac may have legal or other issues with it.

Who wrote this? Is Pontiac outsourcing that much?