Unreleased Pontiac G8 Prototype Revealed by GM Design

Back in 2009, GM’s closure of Pontiac resulted in the loss of several iconic car models. Among these was the Holden Commodore-based G8 sedan, known for its rear-drive platform and V8 power. Although a follow-up was introduced with the Chevrolet SS, which continued the Commodore base until Holden’s shutdown, it appears Pontiac had ambitious plans for the large sedan. Recently, GM Design unveiled a never-before-seen concept car from the archives, showcasing a Pontiac G8 concept from the brand’s final days.

According to an Instagram post, this show car was completed in 2008, the same year the production G8 was launched. The concept features striking vertical headlights, massive kidney grilles, and a distinctive Coke bottle shape along the sides. The roofline boasts a fastback design hiding a hatchback, while the rear takes inspiration from models like the Solstice and Saturn Sky.

Upon examining the interior, similarities to the C8 Corvette dashboard are evident, with a driver-centric layout and a barrier separating controls from the passenger. The concept seats four individuals, with a center console dividing each side, hinting at a more upscale grand tourer rather than a conventional sedan.

This concept showcases a significant departure from the actual G8 and SS models, which were essentially rebadged Holden Commodores. It suggests a more developed and unique direction that the G8 could have taken, had external factors not intervened. The possibility of a future generation G6 based on the ATS platform, as suggested by Bob Lutz, adds to this speculation.

While these scenarios did not come to fruition, the Pontiac G8 concept sparks curiosity and contemplation on what could have been in an alternate automotive timeline.