The 2009 Pontiac G8 GT's 6.0-liter V8 is rated at 361 horsepower.
The figure comes from GM's LS2-based powerplant used in the GT, which paired with either a manual or automatic transmission to deliver strong performance in a large four-door sedan.
Power figures and engine details
Here are the key power-related specifications for the G8 GT’s 6.0L V8, which help explain its on-road performance.
- Horsepower: 361 hp at 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 385 lb-ft at around 4,400 rpm
- Displacement: 6.0 L (364 cu in)
- Engine family: GM LS2
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with manual shift mode
These figures reflect the G8 GT’s emphasis on a balanced blend of acceleration and driving dynamics for a four-door sedan of its era.
Context and comparisons
In its lineup, the GT sat between the base V6 and the higher-powered variants. For context, the G8 GXP used a larger 6.2-liter LS3 engine with about 415 horsepower, offering a noticeable jump in output. During the same era, rivals such as the Chevrolet Camaro SS (6.2L V8 with around 400 horsepower) and the Ford Mustang GT (also V8-powered) were targeting similar performance bands.
GXP and rivals
The G8 GXP’s 415 horsepower contrasted with the GT’s 361 hp, while competing contemporaries offered a range of V8 outputs that influenced buyers seeking straight-line speed versus other factors like interior space and ride comfort.
Understanding the GT’s horsepower helps place it within GM’s late-2000s performance sedan landscape, where a muscular V8 and available manual transmission aimed to deliver a satisfying driving experience without sacrificing everyday practicality.
Summary
The 2009 Pontiac G8 GT’s 6.0-liter V8 delivers 361 horsepower (about 269 kW) and 385 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong performer among late-2000s four-door sports sedans. For more power, the G8 GXP offered a 6.2-liter LS3 with 415 horsepower.
What are common problems with the 2009 G8 GT?
Common Pontiac G8 Problems
- Seat Belt Cables Prone to Bending. When GM announced they were recalling 2008 and 2009 Pontiac G8s for seat belt cable problems, it cast doubt on the car's dependability.
- Ignition Key Problems.
- Faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Brake Pedal Position Switch.
- Rattling Suspension.
How much is a 2009 G8 GT worth?
Values and Prices
Estimated Trade-In Values for the 2009 Pontiac G8 GT Sedan 4D range from about $7,100 to $8,425 depending on vehicle condition. Estimated Private Party Values range from about $10,600 to $12,550 depending on vehicle condition. Valid for ZIP Code 29401 through 4/23/2026.
How to make G8 gt faster?
If you've never done any performance upgrades on your car, bolt-on modifications such as a cold-air intake, headers, x pipes, and mufflers can add power and performance to your vehicles. Depending on the result you're looking to achieve for your G8, you could do one or all of these modifications.
Is the Pontiac G8 GT fast?
The GT comes with a 361 hp (269 kW) 6.0 L (364 cu in) Generation IV V8, featuring a 6-speed 6L80 automatic and Active Fuel Management, capable of reaching 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.2 seconds, with quarter-mile times as low as 13.4 seconds.