The Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission as its standard setup. In practice, the high-performance GXP variant is typically manual-only, with automatic options being limited or uncommon depending on year and market.
Produced from 2006 through 2009 on GM’s Kappa platform, the Solstice offered two engines—a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four and a turbocharged 2.0-liter for the GXP—fronting a drivetrain that emphasized engaging, hands-on shifting. Transmission availability varied by model year and region, but the manual gearbox defined the Solstice experience for most buyers, especially on the GXP.
Model-by-model transmission overview
Below is a concise rundown of how transmissions typically aligned with each Solstice variant. Note that exact configurations could vary by year and market, so always verify the specific vehicle's specs.
- Base Solstice (2.4L I4, 2006–2009): Primarily offered with a 5-speed manual. Automatic options were uncommon in the U.S. and not standard for most trims.
- Solstice GXP (turbocharged 2.0L, 2007–2009): Typically shipped with a 5-speed manual and did not routinely offer an automatic transmission.
In practice, the Solstice lineup favored a manual setup for driver engagement, with the GXP in particular designed around a tactile, performance-oriented stick shift. Automatic transmission availability was limited and not the focus of the lineup.
Summary
Overall, the Pontiac Solstice centers on a 5-speed manual transmission as its core configuration. The turbocharged GXP version is generally manual-only, and any automatic option exists only in limited, non-standard circumstances that vary by year and market. If you’re evaluating a used Solstice, check the vehicle’s documentation to confirm the exact transmission for that car.