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:
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Super car for the money! - 2007 Pontiac G5
By kyyankee7 - June 24 - 5:16 amIve had this car for about a week, so long term details obviously arent here. But Ive absolutely loved it. I had already bought a G6 earlier this year and was looking to get another, but the style and color I wanted was sold just before I got to the dealer. Looking around the lot I saw the G5, a 5 speed, very basic model. I hadnt driven a stick in years, but I found it immediately easy and fun to drive. The bottom line is this: needing 2 cars to replace aged ones, we were able to get a G5 and G6 for about the price of a Hummers front end suspension! Cant recommend them too much.
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Long Range Commuter - 2009 Pontiac G5
By john - June 22 - 3:46 amSo far perfect. I have a 180 mile round trip commute,at 3 AM onstar is comforting. The car gets great mileage,very comfortable,xm radio in the lonely areas,fun to drive. For a commuter that gets 37mpg the overall performance is outstanding. Base level G5 xfe, 5 Speed about 17K, -4,500 cash for clunkers, 3,500 incentives, 500ish dealer discount +tt&l, came to 10,700 whats not to love. I got way more than I paid for. 11 bucks a month extended the bumper to bumper to 100,000 miles.
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Brand new car troubles. - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Kristin - May 2 - 2:33 pmDont get me wrong, I absolutely love my 2007 Pontiac G5. But now it is starting to have problems already and it hasnt even been five months since I bought it brand new off the lot. Im not sure if it is just my car experiencing these problems or if there are others, but there are not any recalls about leaks. Two months after I bought the car, the front windshield leaks. We just recently had a big rainstorm, I go look in my trunk and there is a good 3 inches of standing water in my trunk surrounding my battery. Other than these problems, which shouldnt be happening, this car is a great choice for my first car. Nice and smooth riding.
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Ignition problem - 2008 Pontiac G5
By RainaJoi - April 28 - 4:56 pmThis is my second car. I bought it for the price and the fuel economy. I have a 5-speed and get 29mpg City. I would highly recommend it as a stylish alternative to the "bubbly" fuel economy cars. It rides beautifully and quietly for a standard. However, I have had it back to the dealer TWICE because of problems with the ignition and my keys not being recognized by the car. They said it was not a "recall" on the car, but there is a "bulliten" on this problem. So, beware.
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This car is sweet - 2007 Pontiac G5
By nicman18 - March 20 - 2:43 amThis car was one of the most fun little compacts I have ever driven and I would take it over any import any day
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I love my G5! - 2009 Pontiac G5
By Cakesa3 - February 22 - 2:00 amMy dad purchased me this car because I was transferring to a university and I needed a reliable car and I absolutely love it! I have had no problems (other than the steering defect recall which GM is replacing). This car is very fun to drive, handles well, and gets great gas mileage. It doesnt have the greatest horsepower, but will get and go. When it was purchased it had about 23,000 miles and it now has around 26,700. Nothing has been replaced. I plan to keep this car until it wont go anymore. I would recommend this car for a teenager/college student or just anyone who loves a small reliable car! I wish Pontiac didnt go under!
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Fun to drive! - 2008 Pontiac G5
By blink1342 - February 19 - 11:03 pmI bought this car about one month ago and I can say I am very happy, excellent ride, very comfortable seating, good cornering , nice style, small and fuel efficient, what else could you want, for this price? I am very happy i have had many GM cars in the past, like the impala, century, malibu and they were all great, reliable vehicles. Overall recommended. At least test drive one and youll see what I am talking about.
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Becoming irritated with my G-5 - 2008 Pontiac G5
By Shelby - January 6 - 9:33 pmI bought my G-5 last July as sort of an impulse buy, part of the "new me" I wish I would have done more research on this vehicle. I also wish I would have known that Pontiac was going under and that right now i can buy my car for as cheap as $10,000! Anyways, I drive my car 90 miles round trip to school and its never left me on the side of road. In the year ive had it though, its been to the shop twice for annoying squeeks. One is in the rear brakes (they said nothing was wrong), and the sunroof squeeks. Also, when i make a turn the car twist and pops the sunroof out of the roof. The crome on the door handles peeled off. The warranty for Pontiac is nice, but not bringing it in for repairs.
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Excellent Car - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Pat - December 13 - 6:53 amThe Pontiac G6 is an excellent car. So far I have had no problems with my car.
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Good car with minor problems - 2007 Pontiac G5
By Peter Harris - December 5 - 7:38 amThe front wheel bearings went just two years after buying the car. There was a minor electrical problem with the radiator fan. And, just recently, after ten years, the three major electrical components failed: battery, alternator, and starter. Peter Harris
