In early 2008 Pontiac will start selling the Holden (GM of Australia) Commodore, a large rear-wheel-drive sedan, as the G8.

The exterior strongly resembles an enlarged BMW M46 M3. Subjectively, the G8 is about the same size as the current Impala, though a tape measure will find it’s not quite as long. When viewed directly from the side the front overhang is longer than photos have suggested, but it’s not too long.

Engines will be a 261-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 and a 360+ horsepower 6.0-liter V8. The latter will be offered with a six-speed manual as well as an automatic transmission.

Bob Lutz asserted that the steering is excellent, courtesy of a rack mounted ahead of the front axle. A test drive will tell.

I focused on the interior. News here is almost all good. The materials are much higher in quality than we’re used to seeing in a Pontiac, with many surfaces upholstered in leatherette with contrasting stitching. The styling isn’t anything special, but it’ll do. I took many photos, and will post them here when I get a chance to transfer the files.

Okay, maybe some bad news: Autoblog (which has the few release, complete with stats, and a photo gallery) reports that some of the fancy interior trim won’t make it to production. Hopefully only the leather-upholstered IP top won’t make it. if the door panels and contrasting stitching don’t make it, then the concept has largely served to boost my expectations above what the production car will deliver.

Seats both front and rear are very comfortable. Front seat lateral support is just okay for someone like me with an average build; the bolsters are spaced so large people will still be comfortable.

The rear seat provides good headroom and excellent legroom. And the cushion is high enough off the floor to provide adults with thigh support, a rarity in a GM sedan.

Overall, if the price is decent this car should sell very well. I’m personally looking forward to the six-speed sedan. The only thing better, for my own needs, would be a wagon version.