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.
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.
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.


