Just in time for the end of our unseasonably warm January weather, Pontiac's new two-seater, convertible roadster, the 2006 Solstice, showed up in my driveway. Don't expect any glorious exultations about driving down the highway completely top-free.
There's a joke there about how my life has always been regrettably top-free, but I think I'll let it pass.
Anyway, some initial thoughts on the Solstice, which I've had the chance to use for some daily commuting so far. It's definitely a head-turner -- I haven't had this many people stop and stare since I spent a week with the the Chevy SSR. And the Solstice is deserving of a second (and third) glance -- it's hands down the best looking car I've seen come out of Pontiac in years. I still think the trademark Pontiac kidney grille gives the Solstice a vaguely insectoid look, in person it really delivers on the promise of distinctive style for a low price. It was fun sitting in K Street traffic this evening next to a Porsche Boxster S, and noting some of the design cues that the Solstice has lifted. But that's where any similarities end.
Looking at the Solstice, you could be excused for thinking, "Wow! How do you get this kind of car for just $20,000?" Then you get into the Solstice and you think, "Wow! I see exactly how they made this car sell for $20,000." You couldn't get more into plastic if you married a blow-up doll. It's not GM's worst interior (now there's a wide-open contest for you) and it makes some valiant efforts to inject a little style with some generic swoops and swooshes, but it's nowhere near the stunner you would expect from the exterior.
I'll check back in later with a report on the power and handling, after I get a chance to thrash around a little bit this weekend.
I've been neglectful in posting any additional thoughts on some other recent cars I've tested. This week at Metro Weekly I've got a review up of the new Infiniti M45. I also liked the Chevy HHR much more than I expected to, although some of my family liked it more than I did. And if you're currently considering a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord sedan, you really should take the time to test drive the new Hyundai Sonata -- you'll be pleasantly surprised.
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