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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  Fun to drive - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Beth - August 2 - 10:56 pm

  Love it. Lots of fun to drive. Handles well in all driving conditions. No, blind spots.

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  G6 GTP Sedan - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By jrusa1 - August 2 - 11:33 am

  Im two weeks into ownership. After driving numerous "sport" sedans, this was the first one to really stir some emotion with me. The engine has really nice pull, and the handling is great! The car is not quite as nicely put together as some of the Japanese and German sedans I drove, but what it lacks in fit and finish perfection it makes up for in style and performance.

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  What is it ? - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By jay haga - August 2 - 7:13 am

  When i saw the commercial announcing the 08 G6 GXP street edition, I knew I had to have one. One week later she was sitting in my garage. I never expected all that she gives. performance is great, from the 3.6vvt,the six speed automatic, and 2.77 gear ratio. Quick as a house cat out of the hole and cruises at less than 2000rs. She feels very nimble cornering and goes great in the snow. I find the seats very comfortable and all controls to be where they should. everywhere I go someone will come up and ask "what is it?" Pontiac has definetly hit a homerun in my opinion. Looks, style, performance (shes not a race car but a great commuter), and fuel mileage for the 21st century.

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  Same problems - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Jae - July 25 - 5:16 am

  I have had my car going on 2 years, and the major thing I have replaced are thee rotors. However, I do hear an popping noise whenever I am turning the steering wheel, and this happened just a couple of months after purchasing it. My car does tend to shake when stopping, I hope its not the tire rod end. The interior paint is already fading. I do like the acceleration of the vehicle, the style, and the appearance. I just wish GM had put more thought into the other qualities of the vehicle.

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  2006 Pontiac G6 GTP 6 Speed - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Craig - July 23 - 10:40 pm

  The GTP version is all about power and handling. The hydraulic steering and stiffer suspension give the car a sports car feel. The 6 speed feels similiar like a Trans Am. The leather seats are bolstered to keep you in place while cornering. The gas mileage is pretty good. I have averaged over 25 mpg in mixed driving. Love the 18" wheels and the excellent brakes. This car has personality and that is something you dont get with an Accord or Camry.

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  Never Again! - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Never Again! - July 22 - 7:20 pm

  Have had nothing but issues. I take it in at least once a month to be fixed, mainly with Brakes and Power steering. Brakes replaced twice fixed four times. First set of brakes were replaced at 9,000 miles. Power steering sensor fixed once then replaced once because it would lock on me while Id drive. Feel very unsafe in this car. Dealership wont do anything for me. Trying to argue the MI Lemon Law with Pontiac Corp. Have also had issues with tire pressure. Lets just say, I will never get a GM again... doing everything I can to get out of this lease!!

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  What a Beaut! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Rebbratt - July 13 - 10:03 pm

  Had the GT for about a week with 300 in and out of city miles. Man, does this thing hum! Great performance with 23+ so far in all conditions. Runs like a top and the guys at Speedway had already put a air wing on the trunk lid. Really turned some heads and I was told by one admirer that it looked like something right out of Italy.

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  Pontiac Excitement - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Black Brad - July 13 - 1:56 pm

  The overall experience with my G6 has been great. This is the best car from Pontiac since the Firebird. The ride is smooth and solid. It handles securely, but lacks a bit of steering feel.

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  Desperate for help - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Andrea W - July 8 - 7:53 pm

  I do love my G6. The handling is great, love the way the steering feels. My complaint seems to be an isolated one, but I have had mine in for repair over 10 times. The SES light keeps coming on. Doesnt seem to drive differently when it does, just annoying. GM has not been cooperative. I suggest going with an auto make who cares more about their customers.

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  1,500 miles - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Stacey - June 29 - 1:03 pm

  A beautiful car inside and out. It feels like driving a more expensive car. The power adjustable pedals and seat make for a perfect fit. I purchases the optional 18" wheels with stability control(only $390 sticker for all)and am surprised at how aggressively the car corners. Most of my time is spent driving sedately and the quiet ride with Monsoon system have made me enjoy driving again. I find myself using the heated leather seats on warm days to help my lower back. The headliner is nicely cushioned, and the two-tone interior is very visually appealing. I look forward to the drive every time I get in this car.