It doesn’t look like the GTO of old, but the new incarnation of the Pontiac GTO leaves its own trail of memories. For anyone who relishes the thrill of driving a V8 powered two-door, the GTO merits attention. The 6-liter V8 grabs a whopping 400 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 395 pounds-feet of peak torque at 4000 rpm. That’s a new engine for the 2005 model year. A hood with twin air scoops is also available in the 2005 model year. Other changes for the model year include a footrest for the driver, polished exhaust outlet tips, and larger brake rotors and calipers. The rear drive coupe has a great engine and exhaust sound to drape the Australian manufactured GTO in a power provoking audio aura. GTO offers choice of transmissions, either a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed electronic automatic.

The GTO was vacant from the General Motors line-up for 30 years, so a return engagement was overdue. This go-around, the GTO is fashioned with an array of standard equipment items, like 8-way power front bucket leather seats, steering wheel audio controls, air conditioning, rack and pinion steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and a 200-watt, 10 speaker audio system. The tested Pontiac GTO embellished the cabin with a bit of racy spice via aluminum foot pedals as well as suede and leather door inserts. Tested car had inserts that matched one of the new for 2005 exterior colors, impulse blue metallic. Mile per gallon estimates for the GTO with an automatic transmission are 16 city/21 highway. MSRP is $32,295.