Pontiac’s new flagship, the G8 GXP high performance sedan, will be unveiled at the New York Motor Show on Wednesday, 19th March, 2008.

The export programme were confirmed by GM Holden’s new Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss, who described the car as a great addition to Pontiac’s product portfolio.

“The addition of the new G8s to our export programme further enhances GM Holden’s position as the centre of global rear wheel drive expertise in the GM organisation and reinforces that the cars we are building are truly world class."

“This is another example of how at GM Holden, we are expanding our export opportunities and operating globally.”

The Pontiac G8 GXP adds to the existing line-up of G8 and G8 GT and will also be built in Adelaide starting later in 2008.

The GXP sedan export programme will see Holden’s Elizabeth plant expand its production to 44 models off six variants.

The G8 GXP takes the G8’s responsive driving experience, refined passenger environment and aggressive looks to a new level. It is also the first GM Holden export to Pontiac to offer a manual variant, as both a 6 speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission will be available.

GM Holden’s Export Manager, Kristian Aquilina, believes the car will complete Pontiac’s G8 range and will give it a definite sports performance edge.

“Not many would have thought Pontiac could have taken the G8 GT one step further, but the GXP has done that and it is sure to impress. This is a very exciting product,” Aquilina said.

Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager, Jim Bunnell, said that the GXP is more than just raw power.

“The GXP delivers the sophisticated yet exciting driving experience that enthusiasts expect in a car costing far more than the GXP,” Bunnell said.

At the centre of the G8 GXP is the 6.2 litre LS3 small-block V8, currently rated at 300 kW and 546 Nm* of torque. This engine is the newest member of GM’s small-block V8 range.

The G8 GXP exhibits strong Pontiac design cues with a unique front fascia with a lower splitter. A distinctive rear fascia diffuser also contributes to its sporty look. The dual-port grille, fog lamps, bold wheels and confident stance are all Pontiac traits.

New York’s Motor Show runs from the 21st-30th March, 2008 at the Jacob Javits Convention Centre.