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:
Showing 21 through 30 of 150.00-
Good car but room for improvement - 2007 Pontiac G5
By 06G5GT - February 26 - 5:33 amMy 1st car and just clicked over 13000k and so far the car has been good through the summer and very reliable in winnipegs -40 weather.Brakes rust really badly and look terrible behind the revealing rims.This car is tough to upgrade power wise without putting alot of money into it,it can handle bolt ons but anything more and you will need new injectors and a tune that will void your warrenty.Premium fuel is recommended and it shouldnt run without it if u want optimum performance, but with the price of gas its getting harder to afford the extra 10-15 cents per liter.Gas mileage is so so i get about 24mpg all city.Overall very good car in 5 speed very fun and i recommend it!
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Nice - 2007 Pontiac G5
By CMG673 - February 24 - 11:46 pmThis is the first new car that I have ever owned. I have the GT with premium package. It is fun to drive, and I have had no problems with it yet. I drive a long way to work, and this car is great on gas. If you are thinking about it, go test drive one and fall in love.
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Big Mistake - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Jimbo - February 5 - 6:13 amHavent had a GM product in about 15 years, daughter needed a car for school and the price was right so i bought the G5, what a mistake, has been in the shop twice in less than a year for new rear axel and rear suspension failure covered under warranty. but i need a reliable car not a reliable warranty. Should have gotten a honda. Im so stuck with this its not funny.
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Very nice ride! - 2007 Pontiac G5
By kcwilson05 - January 13 - 4:56 pmThis car drives great and rides very smooth. The interior is very sleek and with the black and chrome, it just cant be beat! Overall, this car is wonderful. It handles very good and the gas mileage is great as well.
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Do Not Buy G5 GT!! - 2008 Pontiac G5
By MuscleMike - January 5 - 9:40 pmThis car has been a disappointment since the day I bought it. Bought it to save on gas, but I am still kicking myself today for trading in my 2006 GTO for this joke of a vehicle!
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Solid Car - 2007 Pontiac G5
By tu - December 12 - 5:23 pmI am a current owner of the G5 GT. I am very satisfied with the car. The power of the GT engine actually works well with the auto transmission. This is my first car ever to not be a manual. The best part about the car is the handling. The sport tuned suspension of the GT combined with the electronic power steering can really hold the road. All GM cars I have driven before as rentals felt like I was driving a boat. The GT does not. It handles well, feels solid and secure, and allows for quick and nimble driving. Overall the car is a solid buy. Good power, handling, looks, and comfort for the price.
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Sorry - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Tom - November 9 - 5:10 pmMy G5 has been in the shop 6 times since i bought it in December 07 with the same problem. Radio has staic rpm fluxuates, tires blown out, gas milage droped from 35 mpg to 27 mpg the first 2 months. I will never buy another GM product. Ill stick with my good dependable FORDS. Dealer still cant fix the car. They just keep reprograming it.
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Great Car at an Exceptional value - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Shane Tomlinson - October 16 - 9:06 pmAbsolutely nothing negative. I think with quality like this the American Car perception is crazy. Anyone that thinks they can they can buy a better import is smoking crack. With a standard 5 year 60,000 mile powertrain warranty, 3 year 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty makes for worry free driving.
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Never buy a GM again! - 2008 Pontiac G5
By Disappointed - October 8 - 3:13 amThis car is nothing but problems! I will never buy anything from GM again. It feels like every day something else is wrong with this car and then when I bring it to the dealer for service, they tell me they have it fixed yet the problem never gets resolved until five trips back to the dealer and after buying parts I didnt even need! I HATE this car! Take my advise and save your money and time, I wish I did. NEVER AGAIN!
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great little car - 2009 Pontiac G5
By jerry c - September 6 - 3:20 pmthis car has been a great so far,love the trunk,our skis even fit inside with the seat folded down,milage has been very good always over 35mpg and as good as 42mpg with the 5 speed trans
