There has been a lot of disinterest in the GTO since it was reintroduced in 2004.  They criticized it for its lack of retro styling like the new generation Mustangs.  People called it a "Cavalier on steroids."  Some say it isn't "American" enough to be called a GTO.
But what do they know.
I was personally a fan of the new GTOs when GM reintroduced them in 2004.  One look at the GTO 5.7 Litre emblem on the front quarter panels and I knew that it was an incredible machine.  At the time, I was driving a 2000 Hyundai Sonata, which was a reliable and practical car for me at the time, but I had always wanted something a little more special.  Even before I was old enough to drive, I always wanted a fast, sporty coupe that would be fun to drive and eye-catching as well, and I got all of that and more with my 2006 Pontiac GTO.  
If there is any question about power, the 6 Litre Corvette-shared LS2 V8 should quiet any skeptics.  At around 400 horsepower and torque, this car will get from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 4.6 seconds.  With the help of its traction control system and stout suspension setup, handling is very stout for a car of its class despite the immense rear wheel horsepower.  The car also keeps a very smooth ride with the stiffer shocks.
The new generation Pontiac GTO is actually not built by Pontiac at all.  These cars are made by Holden in Australia and are designed with extremely high quality.  I have not noticed any squeaks or rattles with my GTO.  While most skeptics of the GTO criticize it for its bland styling, I happen to really like the way it looks.  It is unique and I don't see loads of other GTOs on the road (unlike the dime-a-dozen Mustang).  
If driving a muscle car is a new experience, gas mileage is going to be a real bummer for some.  However, this car actually gets remarkeable gas mileage in proportion to the size of the engine.  With a 6speed manual, it gets between 21 and 23 on the highway depending on driving style.  Lots of city driving will bump it down to around 16 to 17 mpg.  As far as maintenence goes, I haven't experienced any issues after about 8,000 miles of driving it and I am not aware of any other GTO owners having major issues with the car.
I really enjoy this car.  It is comfortable, affordable, and very sporty.  All of my friends are crazy about it and some are even talking about buying their own!  This car will not leave its riders disappointed.  However, the unfortunate rice rocket/Mustang foolish enough to try to race it might be...

By the way, for all of those naysayers who criticize the new GTO for not being American enough, the letters GTO were originaly taken from the Ferrari 250 GTO, which stands for Gran Turismo Omologato.

i like the horses for it being stock
i hate the gas mileage.....

Though the car may look like a grand Prix on steroids, looks can be deceiving. Rev the motor to 6500 and pop the clutch in first gear, the car barks, hooks, then pins you back in the leather Recaro seats as the LS7 roars. Truly not for the faint of heart. great sound system in the car, though the one I drove had Bose components in it.

Great car but needs more options.

i've had this car for a year and a hlaf an i absolutley love it.