LOS ANGELES – Pontiac is taking the Solstive to a new level with the announcement of the turbocharged 2007 Solstice GXP.

The heart of the Solstice GXP is the Ecotec 2.0-liter turbo engine, GM’s first direct injection offering in North America . It produces 260 horsepower (194 kw) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm),* making it GM’s highest specific output engine ever, at 2.1 horsepower per cubic inch of displacement (130 hp / 97 kw per liter), and the most powerful production engine in the Ecotec family.

A dual-scroll turbocharger with a lightweight turbine provides nearly instant power, and an air-to-air intercooling system boosts the turbo’s performance by reducing inlet temperatures. Dual cam phasing complements the turbocharging system by optimizing valve timing at lower rpm for best turbo response and quick access to engine torque.

Direct injection technology helps the Ecotec engine produce more power while maintaining the lower fuel consumption of a small displacement port-injected engine.

With direct injection, fuel is delivered directly to the combustion chamber to create a more complete burn of the air/fuel mixture. Less fuel is required to produce the equivalent horsepower, especially at normal cruising speeds, of a conventional port-injection combustion system.

The GXP’s high-performance Ecotec turbo engine is connected to a standard five-speed manual gearbox, or an optional five-speed automotive transmission. Either transmission can propel the car from zero-to 60 mph in under 5.5 seconds.

As with other members of GXP family, the Solstice GXP provides a number of standard features not available on the base model, including:

* Unique front and rear fascias
* High polish, dual-outlet exhaust
* StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system
* 3.73 rear axle ratio
* Interior refinements including unique GXP gauge cluster and Cobalt Red seat stitching

The GXP also comes standard with a number of features available as options on the base model, including:

* Sport suspension system
* Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock
* Limited-slip rear differential
* Power window/locks/mirrors and remote keyless entry
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel with accessory controls and cruise control
* Driver information center
* 18-inch polished aluminum wheels

Additional options include a rear deck spoiler, leather seating, sport metallic pedals, chrome wheels, enhanced audio options, including XM Satellite Radio, and OnStar.

The 2007 Solstice GXP will be available in fall 2006. Pricing has not yet been established.

Story by General Motors Corp, edited by Supercars.net