Pontiac Bonneville History

In 1959, all Pontiac makes and models got its new chassis with "wide-track" stance and the Pontiac Wide-Track was born. During 1962, the Grand Prix was introduced giving the Bonneville the role of being Pontiac's luxury leader. This time, it rides on a longer wheelbase and its Sport Coupe got a new 'convertible-style' roofline. The 1964 era of Bonneville offered a minor facelift on the vehicle. The Sport Coupe got a new Bonneville Brougham option that included special interior trim and roof pillar nameplates. A new V8 engine that provides 360 horsepower became the main highlight in 1969.

Throughout the 70's, Bonneville constantly received changes, restyling and new features for all its trim models. Engine modifications on Bonneville's V8 were also constant within the decade. The Bonneville Convertible disappeared and was dropped after 1970. Offered in two-door and four-door hardtops including a sedan, the Bonnevilles got trimmed down along with all GM's full-size body cars during 1977. At the start of the 80's, Pontiac Bonneville got a complete restyling and features such as an electronically tuned digital AM/FM radio, extended range speakers and power outside mirrors. Engine modifications in the 70's were carried through. The station wagon was dropped out of GM's production list in 1984 and the new LE trim level were introduced. The Bonneville were available in three trim levels; the base, LE and the Brougham in 1985. It was also during the 80's that the new front-wheel drive Bonneville came in GM's "H" platform. The Bonneville this time, returned to its role as a full-size luxury/performance car. Bonneville trim levels including LE, SE and the SSE received engine upgrades and standardized features.

During the 90's era of the Bonneville, many features and functions became standard for this vehicle. Bonneville got a redesigned front body/frame structure in 1990 and received major redesigning that included both the interior and exterior enhancements in 1992. The new SLE trim model was introduced in 1993. The supercharged engine series also debuts.

Highlighting Bonneville's 2000 model year was the employment of an all-new design and architecture. Four-wheel disc brakes, standard driver and front passenger side impact air bags, tire inflation monitor, oil life monitor, PASS-key III and the "Catcher's Mitt" design front seats with self aligning headrest were among the new features offered. Also, the SLE and SSEi got standard 17" wheels with "H"-rated tires and dual zone air conditioning with an additional StabiliTrak system on the SSEi. The SE and SLE trim models got heated seats for the 2001 and the factory-installed OnStar offered one-year safety and security service plan. Included features this year are passenger front air bag that features dual stage deployment, an internal trunk release handle and a standard spoiler.

The LATCH child safety restraint system became standard on all Bonneville trim models in 2002. The Bonneville also got a redesigned center console with cupholder this year and its SE trim received new front and rear fascias. In 2004, the Bonneville GXP debuts and Pontiac goes back to the V-8 game for the first time since 1986. The GXP, compared to other Bonneville cost much although it offers more comfort and convenience. It became the compelling successor of the first Bonneville, being a big, comfortable, upscale auto with a V8.