Overview & Reviews

Until Pontiac bit the dust in the wake of GM's 2009 bankruptcy fiasco, the Pontiac G6 was the company's go-to midsize car. In a constant battle to steal sales from the class favorites, the G6 offered unusually tactful styling by Pontiac standards, solid performance from its V6 engines and the availability of a four-seat retractable-hardtop convertible body style. Volume-selling models were the five-passenger sedan and four-passenger coupe.

Unlike the Grand Am that it replaced, the Pontiac G6 had considerably more flavor than a generic rental car. Still, the traditional class favorites topped the G6 in the areas of engine refinement, driving dynamics and cabin materials. The G6 may still hold appeal for used-car shoppers, especially given its likely cut-rate pricing. GM has pledged to continue supporting Pontiac products in its service departments, so a used G6 isn't necessarily a bad idea.

Most Recent Pontiac G6

Based on General Motors' lengthened "Epsilon" platform, the Pontiac G6 was produced from 2005-'09 as a sedan, coupe and retractable-hardtop convertible. For '05, only the sedan was offered; the coupe and convertible debuted a year later. Three main trim levels were offered on the sedan: base, GT and GTP (which became the GXP in '08). Coupes were either GTs or GTP/GXPs, convertibles GT only. Plenty of standard features, such as air-conditioning, full power accessories and CD audio, came on the base model. The GT added niceties such as an upgraded Monsoon audio system. The GXP topped the range with items like sporty exterior styling tweaks and automatic climate control.

At the time of Pontiac's demise, the G6's engine lineup included a base 2.4-liter four (164 horsepower), a 3.5-liter V6 (219 hp), a 3.9-liter V6 available on the convertible only (222 hp) and the GXP's 3.6-liter V6 (252 hp). Four-speed automatics were standard with all except the GXP's V6, which got a six-speed; however, the four-cylinder got an optional six-speed for 2009 that raised highway fuel economy to a laudable 33 mpg. Some power ratings were a bit lower in previous years, notably the 3.5-liter V6, and a manual transmission was available on a limited basis until '08.

In reviews we found that the Pontiac G6 offered generous room for those riding in back, no matter the body style. And we noted that after years of enduring criticism about its overstyled exteriors and gimmicky interior designs, Pontiac stepped up its efforts with the G6. Outside, the G6 had a crisp and sleek look; inside, there was a restrained and attractive layout with none of the traditional dull gray plastic switches. Even so, the G6 still had a few too many cheap plastic surfaces for our tastes.

On the road, we appreciated the low and midrange torque of the 3.5-liter V6, and the ride was smooth. The convertible's optional 3.9-liter V6 should be avoided if possible, though -- it was barely more powerful than the 3.5-liter V6 and got worse fuel economy. Handling was respectable, but we disliked the electric power steering, which was too light and offered virtually no feedback. GT models from 2007 and up had an improved hydraulic steering setup, which we preferred. Along with the enhanced feature content of the later models, we'd recommend focusing your used Pontiac G6 search on the '07 or newer models.

User Reviews:

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  No Help at Dealer - Under Warranty - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By electrified1 - August 7 - 5:23 pm

  The 6 speed manual tranny is a blast to drive. Gear ratios are perfect, especially in stop and go traffic. I can make u-turns going over 25mph. The dealer has tried to fix my leaking sunroof 3 times. They have turned my brake rotors 5 times. the motor mounts make a horrible noise. power steering groans in cold weather. Airbag light just came on. I am out of warranty and now had to fix my sunroof, brakes, engine mount myself. I would call it a piece of junk but if the dealer had fixed it the first time.... it would have been the best car I have ever had.

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  Its good - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By pontiacg6 - August 6 - 3:50 am

  This car is fun to drive. Very responsive and sporty. It does turn heads. I was nervous about a "first edition" purchase, but have no regrets. Pontiac has been reliable in the past, so as a new G6 owner, I think I will just relax and enjoy it.

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  Pontiac Owner Suffers - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By pos - August 5 - 10:13 pm

  The best way to review a car like this is to list the part that have been replaced at 14000 miles blower motor windshield air leek ONLY when its cold out (ice on the inside...took 20miles to melt) NOT Fixed by dealer Sunvisors will not retain position (If you have a 08 g6 take it in for this they stopped making the ones they put in the car because they are so bad ) Brakes and rotors Door made a noise when you stop. they just greased it. ( umm thanks GM ???) Engine ticks (when its cold) they did nothing to fix this. I was told they all do that. Engine idles is not normal ( car shakes when im at a stop light) They all do this i was told. I will list more on my favorite features...

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  I Bought American - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Robert - August 1 - 2:40 am

  I bought this V 6 car based on the reviews and must say that I am most disappointed in the quality. So far the vehicle has been to the dealer 3 times for brake squeal and now there are issues related to fit and finish that have to be dealt with. As an example, the front valance does not fit properly and the grill is warped. Vehicle gets very poor gas mileage and stalls when idling (another issue that the dealer has yet to fix). I will not be keeping this vehicle and will most likely return to a Toyota Camry. Sorry, but I gave GM a chance and they failed.

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  Not for the meek - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By frago - July 29 - 4:00 pm

  Just scored a 2006 GTP Coupe with a six speed manual trans and it is an amazing little car. Super fun to drive with power galore. Massive interior yet its still very sporty. I am 6 feet 4 and with the seat adjusted all the way back my legs are fully extended and very confortable. I have the sun roof and still have great head clearance. Very slick car.

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  Love my baby! - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By katiek239 - July 29 - 11:15 am

  I bought my G6 in March and have put 3k on it so far. I bought it with 94k, and only had one owner who replaced pretty much everything that goes out at that high of mileage. Ive had zero problems since Ive bought it except my windshield cracked and I had to replace it. Its got all the features, 3.6L V6 engine, monsoon stereo, 6 CD changer, fog lights, power pedals, chrome wheels, etc. Definitely a head turner. Its a very sporty fun car for a daily commute. Its my first nice car Ive ever owned and Id definitely recommend for someone who is looking for a nice, cheap, sporty car.

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  My Convertible - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By krhahn - July 26 - 1:13 pm

  I have not had the automobile long, but the handling and striking good looks are incredible.

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  Drives like a rental - 2009 Pontiac G6
  By josh - July 16 - 2:23 am

  I am currently renting this car. Overall its a very dissapointing car. I normally drive an 2007 Audi a4 and given my A4 only cost me about 5k more then a new G6 GT it feels about 100% better in terms of interior quality, handling and overall build quality. The only thing I am impressed with is the 3.5 V6 which feels a lot stronger then the 219 HP its putting out.

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  great car! - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By MIke1997 - July 15 - 5:46 pm

  I have had this car for a year now and have nothing put praise for it. Not one day of trouble and it has not seen the shop yet. Very comfortable for highway driving and for around town too.

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  My G6 Lemon - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By jandkds - July 15 - 5:53 am

  I bought my G6 a little over a year ago and was very happy with it even though it had some odd noises. Now if you try to accelerate the engine cuts out and the light comes on. Almost killed when engine cut out while passing someone. Dangerous! Has been in the shop 5 times for the issue (and others) told it just isnt meant to accelerate? (what, no highway driving or passing?) I dont believe it. I am ready to voluntarily have it reposessed and ruin my credit. I now officially hate this death trap. Whats up GM, why no recalls on the faulty computer?