Emphasizing a sportier style and performance, the 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix focuses most of its attention on the powerful GT and GTP trims, and leaves the base SE sedan for fleet and rental sales.  Proof?  The SE comes in sedan only, with a 3.1-liter, 175-hp V6.  The GT and GTP is either a sedan or a coupe, with a gruntier 3.8 V6 that gets 200-hp in the GT and 240 in the supercharged GTP.  A 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission is standard across the Grand Prix lineup.
The 2001 Grand Prix puts a new grille on the SE and makes OnStar standard on GTPs.  A Wide Track Smart Package for the SE adds a spoiler.  The Special Edition Package for GT and GTP models adds a rear spoiler, hood scoops. shiny dual exhaust tips, and the requisite badging.  As part of its performance orientation, Pontiac has given the Grand Prix more swooping body lines and sits it low to the ground.  Inside, the cockpit-like front seat also sits low in front of an overly busy instrument cluster that's lit orange at night.  Though the 2001 Grand Prix is big enough for five passengers, four would be most comfortable.  A fold-down armrest in back doubles as a pass-through to the spacious trunk.
Though it's no sports car by any means, the 2001 Grand Prix is plenty fast, with terrific sporty handling and smooth acceleration and shifting, say owners.  They praise the engine performance, along with the roominess and overall sleek looks.  The biggest complaint seems to be about the cheaply-made plastic parts, which break or fall off or just don't seem in keeping with the exterior styling.  It also tends to rattle because of this.  Rear legroom can be cramped, the dashboard is too cluttered, and low ground clearance means scraping the front end.