When we first reported on the Holden Coupe 60 back in March, there was speculation that it could hint at either the upcoming G8 GXP or a new G8 Coupe. Since the NY Auto Show, we have realized the GXP coming out later this year and will have just as many doors as the G8GT.
Inside Line is reporting that the G8 coupe is real and has a strong possibility of coming to the US. If Holden ends up producing a coupe on the rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform and Lutz and his faithful followers get their way, the two-door would be offered in GXP and GT variants to match the sedan, possibly within the next three years.
As seen in these illustrations, the G8 Coupe GXP will depart somewhat structurally from the Holden Coupe 60. The G8 Coupe will develop a B-pillar and fixed rear side glass in production trim.
You can also expect many parts from the GXP Sedan to make its way into the new G8 Coupe. Most obviously are the 19-inch wheels, 245/40ZR19-spec summer tires and a version of the GXP’s aggressive front fascia. That rolling gear would be attached to the sedan’s stiff FE3 suspension and, like the sedan, the GXP coupe would offer an optional Tremec six-speed manual transmission.
CAFÉ standards have some people worried about the future of the G8 and other beloved American Muscle cars. One source within Pontiac recently stated, “The G8 Coupe is not dead. This is an uphill battle. It shouldn’t be. But it is.” When pressed, our source indicates that the chance of getting the coupe is probably less than 50 percent.
“The G8 GXP, the G8 sport truck and the G8 wagon were all part of the plan. Then they pulled all three just three or four months ago. It was a classic over-reaction to CAFE. We got the GXP back and, because Lutz is a big fan of the sport truck we got that back, too. But then Dodge killed the Magnum and that was the end of the wagon,” our source says.
As expected, Bob Lutz is flexing his muscles and throwing his support to the development of the G8 Coupe.
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- Can Lutz find a way to beat CAFE and get the G8 Coupe Built?
