2004 Pontiac Bonneville: Big sedan offered power, style

By Neal White, Motor News Media Corporation

June 11, 2008 at 10:44PM
2004 Pontiac Bonneville GXP
2004 Pontiac Bonneville GXP (Melissa Watson/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

For consumers in the market for a large sedan with a little pizzazz, one model worthy of consideration is the 2004 Pontiac Bonneville. Available in five- or six-passenger seating, the 2004 front-wheel-drive Bonneville was produced in three available trim lines - SE, SLE and the high performance GXP.

The base SE is powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 engine and mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Requiring regular unleaded gasoline, it has an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 city/29 highway. Standard equipment on the SE includes a floor console, electronic cruise control, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM audio system with CD player, theft-deterrent alarm system, tire-inflation monitor and power windows.

The SE was also available with a preferred equipment package which added OnStar Safe & Sound service, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, all-speed traction control, a six-way power driver's seat and front leather seating surfaces.

SLE models add a driver information center, 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels, all-speed traction control, heated power exterior mirrors and a rear deck spoiler.

For consumers who demand performance, the GXP Bonneville is powered by a 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 engine, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Stopping power is provided by four-wheel ABS while handling is enhanced by 18-inch V-rated performance tires on styled aluminum wheels. Standard GXP features include suede inserts for the seats and door panels, brushed aluminum shifter handle, carbon-fiber trim, memory bucket seats with power lumbar and power recliner controls, Monsoon eight-speaker sound system and dual-zone climate control.

Standard safety features on the 2004 Bonneville include dual front airbags. ABS and traction control are standard on the GXP, optional on SE and SLE models.

Likewise, a model will be worth less than guide value when a vehicle has high mileage, extensive wear, minor body damage or needs mechanical attention.

The NADA Official Used Car Guide, published by the National Automobile Dealers Association, lists the average retail price for the 2004 Pontiac Bonneville sedan: SE, $11,900; SLE, $15,450; GXP, $18,450. As with all pre-owned vehicles, expect the average retail price to increase if vehicles are equipped with extra features like aluminum alloy wheels (standard SLE and GXP) ($350), leather seats (standard on GXP) ($550) power sunroof ($550) or theft recovery system ($100).

Most new vehicle dealers will check to see if a vehicle received in trade has any outstanding recall notices. Whether purchasing from a dealership or private party, always have a mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to signing an agreement.

about the writer

about the writer

Neal White, Motor News Media Corporation

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