To meet such constraints -- a quick development
schedule consuming only 27 months plus a price point
pitched below $20,000 -- GM's designers turned to
the company's extensive network of product resources,
meaning they raided the vast GM parts bin.
But
first, a new RWD platform had to be developed. Codenamed
Kappa, the new GM architecture is a flexible and
adaptable structure designed to support a number
of future GM vehicles. The platform incorporates
single-piece hydro-formed rails stretched from tip
to tail, which forge an incredibly firm chassis
and set up a nimble drive.
For an engine, the design team chose to modify a
variable-valve version of the 2.4-liter Ecotec in-line-four
plant out of Chevrolet's Cobalt, but adapt it to
mount in the engine bay for a RWD application. In
Solstice, the Ecotec engine produces 177 hp at 6600
rpm with torque tuned to 166 lb-ft at 4800 rpm.
For a transmission, GM turned to its Japanese supply
partner Aisin with the impressive short-throw Aisin
five-speed manual stick. Later in the production
cycle, Solstice will also offer an automatic shifter
using GM's Hydra-Matic 5L40-E five-speed automatic.
Mechanical assets include independent suspension
designs front and rear with SLA arrangements using
lightweight aluminum for upper and lower control
arms to pare the unsprung mass.
Bilstein monotube shock absorbers and coil springs
are also in place to set up Solstice's precise handling
traits.
The rack and pinion steering system has power assistance
for quick response and the brakes show a disc at
each wheel with rotors measuring 11.7 inches up
front and 10.9 inches in the rear.
Standard safety systems aboard Solstice include
dual frontal air bags and built-in roll bars tucked
behind the two seatbacks. A computer-controlled
anti-lock brake system (ABS) with dynamic rear proportioning
(DRP) is on the slate of optional gear, along with
a limited-slip rear differential (LSD).
The driver-oriented cockpit in Solstice adds instruments
inspired by easy-to-read motorcycle gauges, with
two sport bucket seats flanking the console and
a stereo system in the dash with AM/FM/CD and six
speakers.
The soft top on Solstice contains a glass backlight
with defogger element added. It stows out of sight
below deck in the trunk. Lowering the top is easy
and quick: Touch a switch on the dashboard and the
rear-hinged clamshell truck lid pops open. You must
fold the canvas top in accordion fashion into the
well of the trunk, then snap the decklid down.
Optional gear for Solstice extends to three packages
of equipment labeled Power, Convenience and Premium.
The Power Package brings power controls for door
locks, mirrors and windows, plus a remote keyless
entry device. The Convenience Package adds foglamps,
cruise control and a driver information center.
The Premium Package installs leather seats (either
Ebony or two-tone Steel/Sand), a leather-wrapped
steering wheel and radio controls on the steering
wheel.
Other options include AC, a Monsoon audio kit with
seven speak-ers, OnStar telecommunications and XM
satellite radio service.
| For more information visit the Pontiac website here. |
| 2006
Pontiac Solstice |
|
Description:
|
Compact roadster convertible |
|
Model
options:
|
Solstice
|
|
Wheelbase:
|
95.1 inches |
|
Overall
length:
|
157.2 inches |
|
Engine
size:
|
DOHC 2.4-L I4
|
|
Transmission:
|
Manual/5/Aisin |
|
Drive:
|
Rear
|
|
Steering:
|
Power
rack and pinion |
|
Braking:
|
Power 4-disc
opt. ABS/DRP/LSD
|
|
Air
bags:
|
2
(front) |
|
Fuel
mileage city/hwy:
|
20/28 mpg
|
|
MSRP:
|
$ 19,995
|
(...BACK)
