The Pontiac Bonneville has always had a reputation for full-size luxury and room, and the current generation of Bonnies also deliver a younger, sleeker style and a lot of performance power. There were few changes to the 1997 Pontiac Bonneville. The two trims, SE and sportier SSE (with self-leveling suspension and lower ground effects), came standard with a Series II 3.8-liter, 205-hp V6. An SLE package on the SE and SSEi package on the SSE added performance suspension, badging, lots more interior features, such as leather seats, traction control, and power sunroof, and a supercharged V6 that got 240-hp. New in 1997, the SSE got a premium sound system and a new automatic transmission. The four-speed allowed the driver to select between normal and performance modes. It was available as an option on the base model SE. Standard features on the SSE, including power driver's seat, cruise control, keyless entry, and automatic climate control, were options on the SE. ABS brakes, fog lights, daytime running lights that changed to low beams as it got darker, and dual front airbags were standard across the line.
The 1997 Pontiac Bonneville receives praise for its enormous interior room that comfortably fits people over six feet tall. Its smooth handling, responsive steering, quiet ride, and engine power are also rated highly. The Bonnie moves fast and has great pickup with the supercharged V6. It is comfortable on long trips and a lot of owners like the new sound system. Low marks go to the common problem of a cracked manifold, costly repairs and maintenance, and a wide turning radius. Weak climate control is also a downside. When you open the trunk lid, collected water or snow tends to pour into the trunk. Some drivers wish for more horsepower.