Since Pontiac went retro with the Firebird’s styling back in 1999, it’s been hard to picture the car as anything other than a 1960s throwback.
So when Pontiac began hinting that the 2018 Firebird would be based on the Trans Am concept from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Internet was abuzz.
However, the production version will probably have more in common with the current Firebird than with the Trans Am.
A recent set of renderings that first appeared on the 2018 Firebird, and another set published by Car and Driver, show basically the same shape we’re used to, albeit with some softer edges.
The biggest visual change may be new headlights. This would give the Firebird a more updated look and tie it more closely to other Pontiac models.
There’s nothing wrong with the current 2018 Firebird, but it would be nice to see Pontiac change things up a bit. Final judgment will be reserved for the genuine article.
So when Pontiac began hinting that the 2018 Firebird would be based on the Trans Am concept from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Internet was abuzz.
However, the production version will probably have more in common with the current Firebird than with the Trans Am.
A recent set of renderings that first appeared on the 2018 Firebird, and another set published by Car and Driver, show basically the same shape we’re used to, albeit with some softer edges.
The biggest visual change may be new headlights. This would give the Firebird a more updated look and tie it more closely to other Pontiac models.
There’s nothing wrong with the current 2018 Firebird, but it would be nice to see Pontiac change things up a bit. Final judgment will be reserved for the genuine article.
All New 2018 Pontiac Firebird | Specs, Release Date, Features, and Overview
It’s safe to say that the 2018 Pontiac Firebird is one of the most anticipated car of 2018.
Few models stay around for 50 years, and the ones that do accumulate a loyal fan base, and strong opinions about what is and is not proper for such a hallowed vehicle.
With the new 2018 Firebird, which was revealed December 5, Pontiac needs to balance evolution with tradition. It needs to change the Firebird enough for it to stay relevant, while keeping it recognizable.
Will Pontiac succeed? Will the 2018 Firebird model be stuck in the past, or a high-tech ride that’s a Firebird in name only? Here’s what we know so far.
Few models stay around for 50 years, and the ones that do accumulate a loyal fan base, and strong opinions about what is and is not proper for such a hallowed vehicle.
With the new 2018 Firebird, which was revealed December 5, Pontiac needs to balance evolution with tradition. It needs to change the Firebird enough for it to stay relevant, while keeping it recognizable.
Will Pontiac succeed? Will the 2018 Firebird model be stuck in the past, or a high-tech ride that’s a Firebird in name only? Here’s what we know so far.
The 2018 Firebird’s powertrain will probably attract less controversy than its styling. Pontiac introduced a entirely new engine lineup for the 2018 model year, so it seems likely that most if not all of the hardware will carry over.
That means buyers can expect a 3.7-liter V6 in the base model or the 5.0-liter “Firebird” V8.
Things might get more interesting further down the line, though.
Pontiac will install a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine in certain models. This may be the basis for a reborn Firebird performance model, or a way to appeal to European buyers. Either way, it should help Pontiac’s Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) score.
On the other end of the scale, rumor has it that Pontiac is also working on a twin-turbocharged V8 codenamed “Voodoo.” This engine could make up to 600 horsepower, and will likely power a range-topping performance model.
That means buyers can expect a 3.7-liter V6 in the base model or the 5.0-liter “Firebird” V8.
Things might get more interesting further down the line, though.
Pontiac will install a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine in certain models. This may be the basis for a reborn Firebird performance model, or a way to appeal to European buyers. Either way, it should help Pontiac’s Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) score.
On the other end of the scale, rumor has it that Pontiac is also working on a twin-turbocharged V8 codenamed “Voodoo.” This engine could make up to 600 horsepower, and will likely power a range-topping performance model.