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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  I love this car - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By 07g5gt - December 3 - 10:16 pm

  This is my sec time posting about my car. I first posted when I got the car. Now I have had the car a year and it has 10k on it. I just took my car on vacation and we drove over 3000 miles in less then 3 days. On the highway with 4 people in the car, all our stuff in the trunk and the ac on max I got 32.5 mpg at 75 mph. After I got back I wanted to run the car at the track to see its 1/4 time so I did and with me, my uncle and a full tank of gas, it ran a 15.7 at 88 mph. This car has taken all the abuse I have given it and with it being my first 5-speed car ever its been one hell of a car. Its never been in for warranty work and I definitely will be buying another Pontiac after this one.

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  Great car! - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Andy - November 15 - 3:20 am

  Ive had my G5 GT for almost a year and a half and love it. It is always a head turner, and hardly anyone else has one. The only problems Ive had is a broken sunroof switch, replaced under warranty, and a glitch in the keyless entry that others have noted. This was my first new car, and I couldnt be happier.

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  metallic blue nights - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By michelle barrett - September 6 - 5:23 am

  i wanted a sporty car , but needed a family car. I got both when i bought this car 7 days ago. It has everything a family of 5 could need and all the sportiness a single woman or man could want. I would not trade this car for anything in the world.

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  First Car - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Stephanie - June 29 - 1:23 am

  The new Pontiac G5 was bought for me as my first car. It rides so smoothly for a small car and i love it. My car is blue streak metallic and i live how in the sun it almost looks purplish! its fun and sporty and is great for anyone, especially teenagers!!

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  Happy Owner - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By KH - June 7 - 4:03 pm

  After a month, weve got 2000 miles and am really convinced its the right car for me. We went planning to get another G6 but decided to check out the less expensive G5. Im 64" and didnt really think it would work out for me but it does! I even had room in the one with the sunroof! Tight handler, roomy for 2 plus luggage and getting better than EPA rated 32 mpg. Have to watch it though, it sneaks up to 80 mph real easily!

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  Great Drive - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Matt - June 2 - 4:16 pm

  I was skeptical in buying this car since it was only out for a month or so when I bought it...But after I did I was very satisfied with my decison. The seats take a little time to get comfortable to. Acceleration and gas mileage are great. For me, the as mileage is peaking at 25 mpg for light highway, mostly city driving which is average. The handling is great too.

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  G5 is a great car - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Kim - May 21 - 6:50 pm

  What a fun car to drive! This is a nice car that is a 4 cylinder but seems like a 6 cylinder. It has a great suspension system and handles bumps and curves nicely! It doesnt hesitate to get up and go when necessary!

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  Unhappy with the G5 - 2009 Pontiac G5
  By Un Happy - May 3 - 10:06 pm

  My 1st new car and its been to the dealership 3 times for a clunk in the front end, which started around 7,000 miles. After replacing the rack and pinion, it still had the noise, it went back again and this time the inter. shaft and steering column was replaced, it no longer makes the noise (for now), but I have found 2 items not put back together correctly. I am not happy with the car, or the dealership I have it serviced at. The car handles bad and has since I got it, even with new tires it just doesnt handle well, I can see why the company went under!

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  Great car - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Pontiac G5 - April 25 - 1:00 am

  I love this car, i got it as my first car and i love the features i got. Its a really fun car to drive and i recommend it.

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  My new G5 - 2007 Pontiac G5
  By Amanda - March 26 - 4:46 am

  I love my new G5 it is fun to drive. I have a new Dodge Ram as well so I get the best of both worlds. I wanted something sporty and fun to drive. I found it.