The GXP series was first seen in 2003 when it was added to the

The first-ever Pontiac GXP... Concept. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

 full-size Bonneville line-up; it featured a performance version of Cadillac's Northstar V8 engine.  The Grand Prix GXP was next in line in 2005 and according to General Motors it now accounts for 30 percent of all Grand Prix retail sales. It features GM's latest LS-series engine, the 5.3-litre LS4 V8 in 303 horsepower guise, an engine specifically designed for a front-wheel drive chassis. That being said, the one to watch for this year is the much-anticipated Solstice GXP, which launches this fall. The 260-horsepower, turbocharged direct-injection inline-four is certain to give high-performance roadster rivals a good run for their money.