The summer and winter Solstice are the longest and shortest days of the year, respectively. At the end of a long, drawn out season of oppressive heat or bone chilling cold, they represent rejuvenation and renewal. A much needed breath of fresh air. Now, thanks to Pontiac, we are afforded another opportunity to stop and regard our surroundings with new energy and clarity. I had the opportunity to drive the appropriately named 2006 Pontiac Solstice last year at it’s unveiling at Bondurant school of racing and finally almost a year later I got my full week in it. Most of us have become accustomed to the sporty and fun feel of the Pontiac Grand Prix and Grand AM, the Solstice offers the same features of these two classic favorites but awakens its passengers with additional features that are cutting edge.

The 2006 Solstice weighs in at 2860lbs with a 177 H.P. 2.4L Ecotec motor. Engineered with Variable Valve Timing, the motor is designed to deliver the majority of its power distributed through a wide range of R.P.M’s from 2200-6200. This wide range of power allows novice manual operators to enjoy the maximum potential of the car even if they are not yet able shift into the car’s peak points. The Solstice’s peppy motor transports its driver from 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds according to reports, a statistic I can attest to after my time behind the wheel.

The Solstice’s engaging lines contribute to the car’s modern energy and sophistication. The curves of this beauty are second to none. Pontiac sculpted this machine using a method called Hydro forming, a method in which a single die is used with an enclosed water chamber to evenly distribute the force across the sheet metal. The ending result is a vehicle defined by smooth, even cures incomparable to the more common sheet metal pressing. The streamlined contour of the Solstice gives the look of a luxury performance vehicle at a great price. Pontiac attended to every detail in designing the 2006 Solstice; the interior is well planned and comfortable, easy to use and fashionable. The three spoke steering wheel is equipped with easily accessible controls to control the vehicle’s environment with minimum distraction from the road.

The Solstice’s comfortable interior makes it appealing to a versatile audience. From the shortest to the tallest person the peppy roadster will accommodate there height. The handling is stiff and encouraging; it guides its driver into graceful turns at speeds higher than you might feel comfortable in most cars. At one point I sped into a hairpin turn a little fast and scared myself just a bit. Despite my hesitance, the Solstice welcomed the turn with confidence, letting out a mere squeak from the 18” tire as it securely gripped the track.

The introduction of the Solstice, Torrent (Pontiac’s new SUV), G6 Coupe (Sedan and Convertible) as well as the new and improved version of some of Pontiac’s more well known models, the face of Pontiac has definitely marked the beginning of a new era. Thanks to the cutting edge designs coupled with Pontiac’s history of well built mechanics, there has never been a better time to stop by your nearest Pontiac dealership and see what the Solstice can do for your end of summer blues.