Overview & Reviews

For better or worse (mostly the latter), the Pontiac G5 economy coupe was a rather obvious example of "badge engineering." General Motors started with a Chevy Cobalt coupe, made a few minor changes to things like the grille design, headlights, taillights, interior materials and trim, and then rebadged the vehicle as a distinct Pontiac product. This is nothing new, of course, and not necessarily a bad thing either, provided the shared platform is rock-solid and fully competent.

Regrettably, that was not the case with the Pontiac G5. Its stylish twin-port grille had it all over the Chevy's generic bowtied nose, but otherwise the G5 was a Cobalt by another name. It achieved passing marks in performance and ride quality, but savvy shoppers realized that it lacked sophistication and quality. Pontiac's demise due to GM's 2009 bankruptcy fiasco shouldn't dissuade used-car shoppers, since the G5 is basically a Chevrolet. But the G5's numerous shortcomings prevent us from recommending it as a pre-owned purchase.

Most Recent Pontiac G5

The Pontiac G5 compact coupe was produced from 2007-'09 in two trim levels: base and GT. The base model came with a decent amount of equipment, including air-conditioning, powered accessories, keyless entry and a CD/MP3 audio system. The uplevel G5 GT added Bluetooth ('09 only), 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and cruise control. Additional options included a Pioneer audio system, leather upholstery and, depending on the year, iPod connectivity and satellite radio.

The front-wheel-drive G5 initially came with one of two engines, a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.4-liter four. The 2.4 was rated at 173 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque, and it was standard on the GT until being discontinued after 2008. The 2.2-liter was rated at 148 hp and 152 lb-ft until '09, when it became the sole available engine and received some internal tweaks that resulted in more power and better fuel economy. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, with a four-speed automatic available as an option.

Inside, attractive gauges and a full-featured stereo give the Pontiac G5 a contemporary vibe, and metallic accents on the gear shifter, steering wheel and doors brightened the otherwise stark cabin. Materials quality was poor, however. Both models featured a trip computer that provided useful information such as outside temperature, fuel range and coolant temperature. But even with the optional premium leather trim, our editors found the seat design plain and lacking in comfort -- especially in back, where the bench is flat and low and the quarters cramped.

On the road, our editors noted that either G5 engine provided decent power under normal conditions, but made coarse noises when pressed. The smooth, quiet ride was judged commuter-friendly, but the car's handling on twisty roads was not impressive. Even the "sport-tuned" G5 GT allowed too much body roll, and the electric steering system on both models reacted slowly and with minimal feedback.

Beyond the powertrain adjustments, Pontiac G5 changes were minimal during its brief run. For 2008, all models received side curtain airbags and satellite radio as standard equipment, while the GT trim got stability control and OnStar as standard.

User Reviews:

• 

  Last of the Pontiacs: G5 - 2009 Pontiac G5
  By thebarkingspider - October 8 - 11:13 am

  This car has been 100% reliable and, for a small economy car, its fun to drive. Had the dealer correct a minor manufacturing defect with the antenna, and otherwise its been perfect. Steering is solid and precise. Acceleration is good, but wont blow your sox off. Visibility is fair -- the faux spoiler partially blocks the view aft, and side mirrors are a bit small. At 65", I cant rave about space, but it is adequate, and better than most cars of this size (and many larger cars as well). Plenty of storage, with folding rear seats to expand trunk space. Noise level very good as small cars go.

• 

  Finally a good deal - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By StalePhish - October 4 - 10:53 pm

  After countless used cars, I finally decided to get a new car, and what a fabulous decision I made to buy a brand new Pontiac G5. Keeping price in mind, I went with the base model, which still has great performance and equally impressive looks. My personal record average was 38.7 MPG in medium/light traffic on the interstate for an hour. Unlike most other cars I have driven, the headrests are actually effective and the seats are amazingly comfortable. For being over 6 feet tall, I have more than enough leg room and my head doesnt ever bump the ceiling. The interior controls are clustered intuitively and to my taste.

• 

  Still love this car! - 2009 Pontiac G5
  By Sumer R. - September 24 - 5:15 pm

  In 2014, I purchased this car used from a reputable dealer in my area. Truth be told, Ive always owned a foreign vehicle, but I was working with a limited budget, and understood I couldnt be picky. The dealer showed me this car, and I wasnt totally impressed initially, but after a test drive, I had a change of mind. This car gets it done. Ive had it for about 18 months now, and as a commuter, who drives about 30,000 miles a year, my little silver bullet has proven solid through an extreme winter in Ohio, never given me any engine trouble, and is pretty comfy for a base model. I keep the oil changed, and I do regular maintenance as the manufacturer suggests. 6/17 update: Finally something went bad on this little car. In April, I learned the transmission was in need of replacement. I had it replaced for $1992, as a point of reference for anyone looking for costs. Still running. I now have 166,000 on this car.

• 

  Excellent - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By megang - August 5 - 5:46 am

  I wanted a vehicle that would be reliable as well as stylish. When I started the buying process I didnt know exactly what I wanted. I knew however that i wanted something sporty that got as much flatter from other people as it did gas mileage. I got that and more. Its so comfortable it makes your driving experience wonderful.

• 

  Excellent Car and Built in the USA, A+++ - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By JIm - August 4 - 3:36 pm

  I had the car for almost a year now, no problems and love it. The car rides and handles great, even at high speeds its a smooth ride. The turning radius is excellent, I can pull a u-turn just about anywhere and park in the smallest places. (I tried the Chevy Cobolt GT and it does not do this and they are suppose to be the same?) Great MPG 36 mpg, with automatic. Very Quite inside, not air noises, road noise. Great dash, XM radio, mp3 connection. Nice styling, inside and out. Beat all the imports. We have the base module with the confort package, and sport package that may be the difference between ours and other ratings. Great looking 18 in mag wheels, controls on the leather wraped wheel

• 

  Bought a bargain - 2009 Pontiac G5
  By Mean Marcus - July 22 - 10:03 pm

  I would not have bought this tiny car, except for the $4,500 federal rebate. The gas mileage is incredible. The speed sensitive electrical power steering is just ok. Cornering is ok. I think it should have better front brakes, given the weight ratio. Attn. Gm: this is a coupe. Do you understand? am I getting through? its a coupe; a coupe. Make it comfortable for two people. Jump seats would be fine in back. And the parking brake nestled under the armrest is just plain stupid.

• 

  What a lemon! - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Miss Unhappy! - July 12 - 9:13 pm

  What a disappointment this car has been! We purchased this G5, hoping that it would be similar in quality as the Pontiac Sunfire that we had previously driven. Not even close! We have always had a problems with the keys, to the point we cant even open our doors or trunk, and now the key wont even start the car! Its still under warranty but yet the dealership has chosen to spray my ignition with rustcheck instead of addressing the real problem, the keys! From months of juggling both of our keys to either get the doors opened and now to start the car, I guess the problems start now! Both keys are so worn out just from one year of driving. I also cant stand the noise whilst driving!

• 

  Lovin my G-5 - 2008 Pontiac G5
  By Heatherw - February 11 - 12:53 pm

  I bought my car about a month ago in June. I am always finding a way to drive my car, or I am always telling my friends and family I will drive! I love getting up in morning to go to work so I can just drive my car! I am also loving the gas mileage!

• 

  Fun and sporty - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Sloley - January 29 - 11:36 pm

  I have had this car for almost a week and I really enjoy driving it. Its really great on gas. I still have not been to the gas station since I bought the car. I commute from Maryland to DC everyday, so far with 4 trips Im just below half tank.

• 

  Wanna Race? - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By D - Nasty - January 29 - 9:26 pm

  Ive had my G5 for about 8 months now and I really like it. The power is there when you want it, and when you need it. Its real fun to take a sharp turn with, or fit in tight squeezes while switching lanes. The gas is very good, especially when going highway. I drive it every single day and every time I fill up my gas tank someone always comments on how nice my car is. White G5 GT with Custom 18" Black Racing Rims, with 40 meat kumho tires and 20% window tint all the way around.