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 41 through 50 of 150.00-
Great Car! - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Nik - December 24 - 10:56 pmI traded in a 1995 Pontiac Grand Am for this car. What a deal! The car rides great and met my expectations. I read previous reviews of this car and agree with what people said, good and bad.
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Fun to Drive - 2008 Pontiac G5
By Lloyd - November 13 - 5:13 amOrdered this car to replace 1999 Sunfire in October and have been very satisfied with the performance of this car. This car replaced the Sunfire and Pontiac responded to all the Sunfire owners on how to improve it. The ride is much smoother and the handling with the improved suspension is great. It has a lot of the features that more expensive cars have at a lesser price. Handles well in snow!
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Nice car but bad gas mileage - 2007 Pontiac G5
By BJ - November 8 - 8:43 amBought this car because of the price, not a bad car but the gas mileage is horrendous GM advertises 5.2ltr per 100kms I wish, Im lucky if I get 7.4ltr per 100kms. They also state you will get 952kms per tank. I get maybe 550kms. My 3.8ltr impala is better on fuel than the g5. I will never ever buy GM again. With todays technology theres no reason why a 4 cyl engine should get less than 1000kms to a tank of gas.
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Terrible Pontiac experience - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Bad Experience - October 6 - 10:13 pmThe Pontiac G5 coupe that I purchased and drove for two weeks has problems. The wind noise in the car is terrible. You can hear the wind noise above the radio when driving at speeds above 50 mph. I had warped rotors on the car that cause the steering wheel to shake upon braking. The trunk opening space is very small and makes things difficult to put in.
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Reliable. - 2008 Pontiac G5
By Beautifultruce - September 22 - 10:06 amMy job involves driving over an extensive area, and the mileage I get with my G5 is worth every penny that I spend on gas (30-32 mpg highway, 25-29 mpg city). The driver information system alerts are also very helpful - so far only needed for traction and tire pressure.
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Simply Amazing - 2007 Pontiac G5
By computernut21 - September 15 - 11:20 amI couldnt have been more pleased with this car. For the price you simply cant do any better. The G5 has great power, awesome features and looks very sporty. I would recommend this car to anyone I know.
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Great Car - 2007 Pontiac G5
By DC - September 7 - 4:40 amI just purchased my 2006 Pontiac Pursuit G5 (we had it in Canada before the U.S), and I absolutely love it. The 2.2 litre mated to the 4 speed automatic is just great. It shifts smoothly, and has plenty of power to spare. The interior quality is superior to any prior gm products, and the silver-colored accents on the dash board give the interior an upscale feel. Furthermore the stock radio/CD player is very good (considering the price of the car). In addition to that, the trunk is of a decent size, although the opening is a bit narrow. As far as road handling capabilities, the G5 soaks up any frost heaves and cracks in the road, transfering very little noise into the car.
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I love my car - 2009 Pontiac G5
By mccannamn59 - August 5 - 8:21 pmThe pontiac g5 is the perfect car for a teenager whos trying to save some money on gas, and still drive a nice car.
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My Pontiac G5 - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Betty - August 2 - 9:30 pmMy G5 is so sweet, she drives so well.The pickup in my G5, Id never know it was a 4 cyl. The pickup is great and all turns and u turns are remarkable.My G5 is so perfect for me. I sit in drivers seat high & can see great.I have to be careful not to get a speeding ticket,my G5 flies so fast I cant believe it;s a 4 cyl.
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G5 Kentucky - 2008 Pontiac G5
By Skyhawk - June 24 - 7:26 amI bought this G5 as a "go to work" vehicle. Solid performer. Drive train (engine & transmission) are very smooth and responsive. I got 7,000 miles on it and Im averaging about 29.5 mpg (mostly interstate driving). Road noise is minimal. Limited visibility on the passenger side "blind spot".
