Sorry to say, if you didn't already know, but CAGS (Computer Assisted Gear Seletion) will be on the new 2004 GTO. This system is loved by all enthusiasts of the F-body and Vette variety. You all know of the gas guzzler tax on automatics.

Can't wait to drive it, but it needs to go to finishing school.

 

It takes a whole 50 cents and 15 minutes to bypass this, but thanks for the info

 

 

I only say that because there are some things that have yet to be addressed, such a open roof, XM, heated seats, OnStar, Nav, hood scoops, dual duals at the rear, etc. Granted, many people don't care, but the issue has been brought up here at this and other dealerships from potential customers. It's no big deal, the items I mentioned are on the way and planned for the future of the model.

 

Computerized navigation would look totally out of place on a GTO or for that matter a Mustang. Plus, the usefulness of such a feature is vastly overblown. Folks are already starting to have GPS-enabled PDA's and handhelds instead.

 

It's only a big deal to to the poor slob who buys a 2004. All of the omissions you mentioned came about as a concequence of the underfunded "development" of the U.S.-specific GTO.

 

I think all the omissions he mentioned would also be out of place in a new Camaro, so once again ya seem to be reaching there Redzed.

Tell us exactly how much Holden was budgeted to develop the GTO, and how much you feel should have been. Whatever the figure, I'm sure for you it wasn't enough.

We know you don't like the car because it's from the "3rd world nation of Austraila" where India is far more advanced, and that GM's money would have been better spent rebadging a BMW M3 as a GTO.

But my goodness, if a passing truck threw up a big stone that chipped the windshield, I'd fully expect you to slam the GTO for having too big a windshield with too thin glass, and another reason not to buy it.

 

Well, it shouldn't have than thin of glass then either.

 

Right. They couldn't develop "dual duals" (styling only; the car has dual exhaust, tips would have been easy - and only a subjective improvement in styling; I like it how it is). The couldn't develop hood scoops (they'd be fake, so what's the point?). Nav system? Not a mandatory option by any stretch on a car like this. Geez. Again, are you even in high school yet?

 

GTO has dual exhust, if you want dual dual you will have to wait until '05 (9 months away) or get a cat back.

Out of that whole list the only thing definatly should have been an option is the sunroof/moonroof.

Not everyone wants hood scoops, there will be hoods from SLP, GMPD and other for that.

 

Just to clear up some terminology here:

du·al - Composed of two usually like or complementary parts; double: dual controls for pilot and copilot; a car with dual exhaust pipes.

du·el - A prearranged, formal combat between two persons, usually fought to settle a point of honor

 

1. Why does the GTO have dual exhausts, but looks like it only has a single? My guess is that GM was too cheap to redesign the rear bumper cover.

2. Hood scoops? No car absolutely needs a hood scoop. However, the GTO has so little visual appeal that something is neccessary.

3. Nav system? I hate these things, but the lack of one (even as an option) shows how out-of-step Holden is with the rest of the world. This isn't a S-class feature anymore - it's expected on hum-drum sedans and minivans.

 

I don't think a $2000 NAV system is an important option on this car, while it would be a nice feature, I think a sunroof or optional LS6 for $2000 would be more appropriate for this car.

You must remember that the car is limited production and to keep the prices down every car is equiped with the same options. THe bulk of GTO buyers do not want to pay $2,000 for NAV system.

I'm sure by the 2007 model it will be an option, or if the prices drop to under $1000 maybe by 2006 the will include it.

 

Yeah, but the features that are missing set a tone for the car. Who ever heard of a "BMW-competitor" without even the option of a sunroof? Where's the Stabilitrak? Where's the 18 inch rims?

It's clear that the dash wasn't designed to accomodate the LCD screen for a Nav system. The Aussies weren't prepared to offer a sunroof for the U.S. market and stability control isn't on the menu for any Holden. Then there are the tiny little wheelwells inherited from Opel circa 1993.

In terms of automotive development it all comes down to "how much money?" and "how modern?" The answers are "not much" and "not very."

 

really now...Pontiac has just gotten this mission to be a BMW fighter..it takes time to get these things rolling.. look how long it took Caddy to turn around and make cars that are as good as what they are competing against. Buick hasnt even turned the "quality of Lexus" corner yet.