It would seem that although GM product czar "Maximum" Bob Lutz may be the #2 man at GM and the #1 man in our hearts, it appears he may have lost the battle for making a new GM ute a GMC. While we're disappointed we won't be able to continue hearing his excited desire for a "Caballero," we're excited about news this morning from Automotive News that is quite possibly the most important piece of news we'll see on these pages this year. Here's the scoop — as we've already reported — we won't be getting a new Chevy El Camino. However, we will be getting a ute stateside based on the Holden and it'll be branded with the badge all about driving excitement. That's right kids, it'll be a Pontiac — but not just any Pontiac. It'll be a Pontiac G8. But wait, there's more.
We're also told we'll be getting a RWD wagon based on the Commodore — and it'll also be a Pontiac G8. So basically the G8's going to become a mini-RWD lineup under the Pontiac badge with the sedan, ute and wagon all bearing the alpha-numeric name — and all based on the Holden versions. So yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus and he's Australian. Who knew?