Many of us were confused when Pontiac debuted their G8 with an automatic transmission. Not only did they hit the car shows with an auto G8, they didn't even offer a manual transmission. Now, if you're new to the G8, it's important to put this into the right perspective. The G8 sedan, GT and upcoming GXP are arguably sports cars. They may not look like the proverbial sports car, but they're performance vehicles. In fact, they're often billed as the most budget-conscious performance cars around. And a performance car with tons of muscle seems a little odd without a manual transmission to take full advantage of it.

Pontiac Heard Your Pleas

Earlier this year, the G8 Base V6 engine was offered stock with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The V8 model came with a 6L80 6-speed automatic. The V8 actually had a "steep" first gear which essentially launched the car from a standstill. Frankly, it wasn't bad. The acceleration was better than most automatic transmissions we've experienced. Unfortunately, you weren't able to buy a G8 with a manual transmission. In fact, you still can't. Pontiac never committed to releasing a 2008 model with the 6-speed manual.

But, there's good news coming around the corner. The 2009 G8 GXP is going to include a 6-speed Tremec manual transmission (it's optional). Even more exciting is that the GXP is reportedly going to come with the same power as a Corvette LS3 (that's 402 horsepower, if you're wondering). Apparently, either Pontiac has had plans the entire time to launch their new model with a manual transmission in 2009 or they've heard your complaints. Whatever the case may be, 2009 is going to be a huge year for the G8 line.

Let's jump back to today (since we're working with what's available). Currently, the power that's generated by your G8's V8 engine is funneled through a 2-piece driveshaft into an independent rear end. According to Pontiac, the 2009 GXP will work in the same manner.

Now, the question is whether you actually need and want a manual transmission in your V8. Opening your car up on the road can be a lot of fun. But, driving manual can be a grind when you're stuck in traffic. In fact, plenty of G8 fans have said they'd rather have an automatic. It's more convenient. Plus, they claim that the only difference between a G8 with a selectable auto transmission and a manual one is the need to push in the clutch. That and the fact that you're basically relying on the G8's computer to downshift when your RPMs surge.

But, a lot of car aficionados argue that even when you're manually shifting the gears on a selectable auto trans, it's normally not as quick as using the clutch. Plus, a manual transmission is more fuel and power efficient. Ultimately, it's nearly impossible to tell how the 2009 GXP with optional manual trans will do on the market. Millions are waiting for Pontiac to launch the car later this year. Besides, G8 fans have endured owning their nice-looking performance vehicles without having a choice of transmission type long enough. Pontiac seems to agree.