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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  Get the GTP if you can swing it. - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By JPF - February 4 - 5:56 pm

  Love my new G6 GTP. So glad I did not buy a boring Japanese sedan. Got all options except Onstar. Hugs the road. Lots of power. Sweet exhaust note. Panoramic roof is a must if you want air and sun without hassle of convertible. Nice stereo. Fit and finish is excellent.

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  Great Hardtop - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By PowayMike - January 29 - 5:43 am

  I have owned several convertibles and I find that this one is the most comfortable and quietest I have ever owned. The hardtop works very smoothly and the interior and exterior styling is excellent. The black exterior with the taupe and black interior works very well together. I dont think you can beat it for the price.

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  Herbs Look - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Herb - January 28 - 7:06 am

  I have been enjoying my car every time I drive it. Even as the "base" model, I have found it to be comfortable, powerful, and quiet. Have had no problems at all. Only negative would be the design of the center console where the storage is just a box shape. I miss having a place for coins and audio containers.

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  Great hard top convertible - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Tim - January 26 - 5:33 pm

  Ive loved the Lexus SC but felt $65,000 out of my price range for what I wanted. Security and wondering if and when someone would cut a hole in the top was my hold back on a convertible and having it for winter. Just happened to see a G6 in a parking lot and checked it out on line and found a car for $31000 that did just what I needed. It really needs a place to lock items in when parked and one touch button top operation would be great. Liked the electric blue but found it was only available in 06 and put out the blue gold which I dont care for color wise. Odd they made the prototype electric blue and cancel the color for 07. I love the car anyway.

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  A lot of car for the price - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By rick - January 21 - 1:43 pm

  The first impression I had was how quiet this car is. With less than 200 miles on it, we took it on a 300 mile trip. I couldnt believe a car that weighs 3400 lbs. could get 32mpg! This car is roomy and has every option imaginable, with the exception of a built in garage door transmitter. I have yet to discover any defects, inside or out. Handles well and has good performance. I couldnt be happier.

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  I simply like it - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Dimitri - January 18 - 7:53 pm

  I work for a car-rental company, and in the past 7 years I have driven hundreds of different domestic and Japanese models. I have to say that I love this car, and I cant get out of it. I am glad that GM has finally decided to compete with the rest of the world.

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  Fantastic Car - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Norm B - January 16 - 9:26 pm

  The new GTP is a blast to drive! It is tight, responsive and comfortable. I am extremely happy with my purchase!

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  G6 V6 Rocket - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By John - January 15 - 5:40 pm

  I just recently purchased my G6 sedan. This car is a rocket and one of the quietest cars Ive ever driven. A blast to drive and gets great fuel economy. Currently getting 33+ mpg. The only problem I have had with the car is the panoramic sunroof. It creaks when you drive over bumps or dips in the road. Other than that, great car. Id recommend on to anyone but, with the standard power roof.

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  Maybe youll find this helpful - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Dziewczyna - January 12 - 11:33 am

  I reviewed cars for months before I got into the G6. Ive owned it now 16 months and I have to say its the first car Ive had this long that I still like. Generally I get bored fast and want something new. It recently snowed in Seattle and I found the TC to be a royal pain. It wouldnt let me speed up to get the momentum to get up the hill. The TC kept coming on and my tires kept spinning. When I turned the TC off.. still couldnt make it up. Recently my windshield freezes on the inside. When the sunroof is open IT IS SO LOUD, almost not worth having it Ive seen others complain about a bouncing speedometer and Ive also had this problem took it to the dealer and they didnt find anything

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  Love this car - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By PG - January 10 - 5:46 am

  I have been considering my a new car for several months. I was leaning towards another mazda, or Honda product however after GM began offering the additonal rebate incentives i decided on base G6 GT. I really am impressed with the styling of the G6. Very roomy interior and the exterior lines are smooth and simple. Ride is exactly what I expected in a car within this price range. I have been driving this car for 2 months and i really enjoy the experience.