Pontiac Solstice Summary
The Pontiac Solstice is a sporty roadster and coupe available from 2006 until 2009 when Pontiac was dissolved by its parent company, General Motors. The sleek exterior design is perhaps its most impressive feature, emulating old-school luxury sports cars. Despite its sleek contours, the two-passenger Pontiac Solstice was sold at a fraction of the cost and had a limited amount of engine power compared to similar-looking sports cars. Even so, the Pontiac Solstice has responsive, sharp handling and above-average fuel economy. The GXP trim is especially impressive when it comes to engine power.
Pontiac Solstice Safety
Considering the timeline of its production run, the Pontiac Solstice does not come equipped with high-tech safety features you'd expect from a more modern car. An antilock braking system (ABS), which prevents the wheels from locking up while braking, became standard in the last year of production. Safety specs for the 2006 model include dusk-sensing headlights and emergency interior trunk release. By 2009, the following safety features were added:
- Electronic stability control – which is designed to maintain the car's stability in all driving conditions
- Auto-on headlights
Pontiac Solstice Interior
With the top up or down, the Pontiac Solstice is roomy and comfortable. Cloth seats are standard but leather upholstery is available. Hard plastics cover the dash, which is expected for its price range, but may be a little surprising considering its luxury exterior. Features we take for granted in modern cars are only optional in base models, like:
In 2009, the coupe was introduced, which offered just as much headroom as the convertible with the curved top in place.
Pontiac Solstice Technology
An auxiliary audio input has always been available on the Pontiac Solstice, which gives drivers the option to plug in their iPhone or MP3 player to the speaker system. A CD player and an optional CD changer are also available. By 2008, more in-car technology was introduced, such as:
- Satellite radio
- Subwoofer – only on the T2 Champion Edition trim
- Monsoon speakers – also exclusive to the T2 Champion Edition trim
By the last year of production, an MP3 player and onboard hands-free communication became standard on base models.
Pontiac Solstice Space
The two-door, two-passenger roadster and coupe are spacious and comfortable with lots of head and legroom for even tall passengers. Things might be a little tight around the hips for some people, but overall, the ride is comfortable and airy—especially with the top down. The Pontiac Solstice is not designed for practicality, and this is perhaps most noticeable in its trunk space, which is not as substantial as others in its class. There is also limited small-storage space within the cabin itself but it is sufficient for day to day driving needs and carrying smaller items.
Pontiac Solstice Comfort
Riding in the Pontiac Soltice can be fun and exhilarating. Drivers looking to maximize their car's performance should check out the Pontiac Solstice GXP, which comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Drivers feel in control when handling sharp corners, thanks to the car's grippy tires. For a more comfortable feel, stick to the base model engine. Going over bumpy or uneven roads can feel a little firm, but the Pontiac Solstice is mainly a smooth ride.
