A commitment to style separates the Grand Prix from other mid-size transportation pods. A coupe-like tautness characterizes the exterior design of this four-door sedan, thanks to a more extreme wedge shape and a roofline five inches longer than that of the previous-generation model. The rear end is as muscular as a speed skater's. Pronounced, enlarged taillights are mounted at the corners. A discreet spoiler finishes the deck lid.

Through the taillights and extended into the sheet metal are two horizontal bulges, like cladding segments escaped from the sides of a Grand Am. If this were a fashion story, we would say they were "to add eye interest" to the rear. And oddly, they do. Anyway, following a Grand Prix down the highway is a pleasant occupation. The rear is important in appearance and certainly distinguishable from its road mates.

Up front, the slightly sculptured hood flows into Pontiac's trademark twin kidney grille. It looks a bit like a tight smirk or knowing grin. The headlights are even more slanted and attenuated than on the previous Grand Prix.

The so-called Coke-bottle sides are marked by two parallel character lines through the two doors about a hand's span below the door handles. Gratefully, there's no cladding, side character lines can be off-putting. One reason the new Grand Prix looks best in black is because black hides these creases.

The aerodynamic door handles are easy enough to use, but can be hard to grab and hold onto when in a hurry.