Outstanding performance value, especially if you have children or need usable rear seats.
GM 3800 engine is virtually bulletproof, received numerous accolades for its efficiency, simplicity and durability. Supercharged versions only make 40 more horsepower than N/A versions, but make LOTS of torque, and can be modified to make well over 300hp.
Great gas mileage, especially for such a powerful V6 in a fairly big car. I drive 35 miles one-way to work every day, and I average around 26-27mpg per tank, 25.3mpg since I bought it.
I personally am not a fan of front-drivers, so I am currently looking to replace my GTP with a GTO. It handles fairly well for having 60% of its weight on the front axles, but like most front-wheel-drive cars, it does understeer when you push it hard.
Transmission has me worried, as it shifts firmly when in performance shift mode, but if driven hard in normal mode, it slips a bit between 1-2 up-shifts at redline.
Repair and maintenance costs have been extremely low; I have paid less than $200 in repair costs, and perhaps $100 in maintenance costs in the 30k that I have put on the car.
My car has Bose sound, which makes it *very* expensive to install an aftermarket head unit, which is usually my first mod. Steering wheel control adapter, harness and installation kit (to do it right, not half-assed) cost almost $300, not counting the head unit.
There is no way to make this particular V6 sound attractive. I've looked at every exhaust system made; there isn't one that sounds good.
I traded up from an '86 Z28 to this car, so this car is high-tech compared to what I was used to. Power seats, climate control, auto-dimming power mirrors, power windows, locks, tilt, cruise; for the money you can't beat this car's amenities.
Great sleeper, I removed the GTP badges, and in a short stoplight drag I can kill pretty much anything that doesn't have a V8 or forced induction.
