Pontiac Communications Manager Jim Hopson has confirmed, in a February 13, 2008, telephone interview, that there are no plans for a new Firebird or GTO in the Development Schedule, at least for the next two years.

He was quick to state, however, “Nothing beyond two years is set in stone at this point.” When asked about Pontiac’s rear-wheel drive (rwd) performance future, Jim replied, “Pontiac never said it would go all rear-wheel drive, but rather it would focus on some rwd vehicles. Pontiac is still the entry point of the Pontiac-Buick-GMC channel. As such, it is set up to attract people into that channel. The division will have a variety of vehicles focused on performance and style and will see more rwd models than in the past. The G8 is a prime example of an rwd performance Pontiac. Though rwd is still very important, Pontiac getting away from front-wheel drive completely is very unlikely.” What’s the future of Pontiac’s “Performance Division” image in the face of news that neither a Firebird nor a GTO are in the works? And let’s not forget the looming 2020 CAFÉ standard of 35 mpg for the fleet. Jim said, ”There are no plans to change the brand character of Pontiac. Performance will have to be redefined as the new CAFÉ standards come in, but Pontiac will still remain performance oriented and meet the standards.” When asked about new vehicles in the Pontiac pipeline, Jim said, “Well, of course the G8 (V-8 and V-6) is the flagship for the division. After receiving positive feedback on it from many areas, we feel we have a very solid hit on our hands. Pontiac has also brought back the all-wheel drive Vibe and Vibe GT models. Now the GT is available with an automatic trans. Previously, it could only be paired with a manual trans, which limited its market reach. “Though I can’t speak in great detail regarding new products over the next 18-24 months, I can say that they will not disappoint those looking for Pontiac to remain a performance brand.” Can the V-8 rwd G8 appease Pontiac fans pining for a Firebird or GTO? Only time and sales figures will tell.