General Motors' Pontiac division hasn't been among the most noticeable brands lately, so some new and reworked models are welcome. Earlier this year, a redesigned compact Vibe wagon debuted as a 2009 model. Now, it's the full-size G8 sedan, which takes the place of the long-lived Grand Prix in Pontiac's passenger-car lineup.

The third member of Pontiac's "G" family, which includes the compact G5 and midsize G6, the new G8 is the company's first rear-wheel-drive performance sedan in more than two decades. Ever since the last Grand Prix coupes of the mid-1980s faded away, all Pontiacs have been front-drive.

A V-6 engine is standard, but Pontiac is promoting the available V-8, claiming that G8 version is the most powerful sedan on the market for under $30,000. Not much under, to be sure, since the V-8 GT stickers for $29,995 (including destination charge). A V-6 edition can be driven home for $27,595.

Both models flaunt an inset dual-port grille, twin hood scoops, projector headlights, and vented front fenders. Both ride on 18-inch tires, but the GT gets machine-faced aluminum wheels. The G8 GT adds clear taillamp elements and quad exhaust tips.

Pontiac's 3.6-liter V-6 produces 256 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, working with a five-speed automatic transmission. Beneath the GT's hood, a sizable 6.0-liter V-8 generates 361 horsepower and 385 pound-feet. That engine gets a six-speed automatic and a limited-slip differential. For those who are impressed by standing-start figures, Pontiac claims the V-8 edan can accelerate to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, versus 7 seconds for the V-6.

This is indeed a performance sedan, after all, with the EPA fuel-economy estimates to prove it: a meager 15 mpg in city driving with the V-8, though reaching a more respectable 24 mpg on the highway.

Driver Shift Control with each transmission lets the driver select three shifting styles: normal, Sport, or manually-selected. A Sport Package is available for the GT, adding 19-inch wheels, sport metallic pedals, and a unique leather-wrapped steering wheel.

GM's StabiliTrak stability-enhancement system is standard, along with a tire-pressure monitor, curtain airbags, and side-impact airbags for front occpants. GM's OnStar system also is standard. Like the revived GTO that didn't last too long in Pontiac's fleet, the G8 is manufactured in Australia.

Performance is what's promised by the G8's 6.0-liter V-8, and that promise is easily fulfilled. Despite a rather heavy overall feel, acceleration from a standstill is effortless and close to stirring. Passing response when tromping the pedal qualifies as brawny and vigorous, compelling the sedan to dart ahead like a charging bull. On the down size, our test G8 suffered a little vibration at idling speed.

Steering takes a bit of effort - perhaps appropriate for the G8's semi-sporty nature. Even in GT form, the G8 delivers a surprisingly easygoing ride, with few bothersome bumps. In fact, this sedan almost glides over many pavement imperfections. Maneuverability isn't quite as appealing, but this is quite a large car, after all. Stopping power is good, but the brake pedal seems positioned too far to the left.

Gauges and controls aren't so appealing, either, in a somewhat odd layout with quite a small speedometer. Bar-type auxiliary gauges are high-mounted in the dashboard center, while mirror and window switches are on the console. Steering-wheel switches are not particularly well identified. Seats are comfortable, though not quite as supportive as some, allowing one's body to sag a bit. Front occupants get plenty of elbow and leg room. Head room is good, but not exactly immense for tall folks. Backseat space is abundant at the sides, but the center occupant must endure a hard seatback and straddle a tall floor tunnel. Except for wide rear roof pillars, visibility is good. The G8's glovebox is huge, while the trunk is wide and deep, if a little shallow.

On the whole, the G8 exhibit little kinship to Pontiac's past, appearing markedly more solid and well-constructed.

G8 V-6 Update: Performance with the V-6 sedan should satisfy most drivers. Only the most ardent acceleration advocates are likely to feel deprived. On the other hand, this version of the G8 does feel just a little heavier and reluctant when pushing the gas pedal.

Attention Editors: This 2008 Pontiac G8 review is available for your publication. Please contact us at JF@tirekick.com for details.