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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  This car is GREAT! - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Brad - September 29 - 4:06 pm

  I really like my new G6. I also own a 02 Grand Am GT. I still like the Grand Am but the G6 rides smoother, handles better, has more power, is more comfortable, and just seems to have a higher level of build quality. Im a manufacturing engineer and I look for all the little mistakes people make when they bolt, weld or snap parts together - so far I cant pick out any issues on my G6. My drive to and from work just got a lot better.

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  08 G6 Convertible - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Couger - September 29 - 1:50 am

  Overall, a great car. In the handling departement, it competes well with Japanese models. It doesnt compete with the German cars, but its a lot less expensive, and sportier looking to boot. Anyone looking for a convertable would do well to consider the G-6. The seats are comforable and well designed. The lack of a power recline feature on the power seats can be overlooked. The height of the arm rests are perfect. So far, we havnt had any probles with this car. This car looks and feels great. Some one else mentioned last year that college girls love this car. Its true. Just trust me on this. If youre a single 20 or 30 something guy and can afford it, buy this car.

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  Awesome - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Terri - September 27 - 4:00 pm

  I have had my car since mid August and love the way it handles. Have not seen any others on the road so far! Got the Electric Blue...great color. Has great pickup..have to watch your speed since you can be going 80 before you know it! Smooth ride, great leg room in the back seat, good size truck. I added the upgraded 17" cast aluminum chrome wheels, along with the adjustable pedals and the remote start. Getting 26 mpg in city driving so far! No problems to date! Great sound system. Glad I bought the G6 instead of the Toyota Solara. Better pricing and almost the same styling

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  Great Experience - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Buddy04 - September 24 - 8:03 pm

  I have had several Pontiacs, traded down from an 04 Grand Prix. Think it competes well against the Japanese competition. Much better attention to detail and interior than the Grand Prix.The sound system is simply awesome.

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  Problem overflow container - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Degy - September 20 - 10:20 pm

  This is the second time took car back for service because overflow container leaks anti freeze. Not the best set up because container has a seam in the middle. When the car heats up antifreeze expands and leaks at the seam.

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  G in G6 stands for "Gorgeous" - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By thdave - September 17 - 8:23 pm

  Nice car. Very supportive seats, generous interior space. My previous cars engine was smoother (V6 Camry- 92), yet I prefer this more powerful engine with its nicely tuned exhaust. It has a solid road feel for such a spacious sedan. Ive only owned this a short while, but it appears to be a very well made car. Im very pleased.

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  Hell freezes over - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Andy - September 17 - 7:23 am

  My family and friends still cant believe I bought a Pontiac. Up until a few weeks ago I would have never believed it myself. Two weeks ago I traded my 2000 MB SLK 230 Kompressor for a G6 GTP coupe. With a new baby on the way I needed something with a back seat so my quest for a new car began. Ive previously owned a 98 Honda Prelude,95 300Z,04 Elantra, as well as some trucks and other cars that my wife had. Make no mistake this is no sports car! It is though an extremely sporty looking car inside and out. In fact, I would say the best looking coupe under $30k. Handling was much better than expected but not as good as some competition. Ride was very smooth and better then others.

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  Disappointing - 2009 Pontiac G6
  By Jackson Johns - September 5 - 4:16 am

  I have an Accord. I got this car as a rental while my Accord was in the shop for a few weeks. Wow. Did Pontiac ever try out other cars? The seats were uncomfortable. There was no place to put my sunglasses. Only 2 cup holders. None in the back seats. It has a horrible turning radius. The engine was very nice. Overall, you can do much better than this.

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  Coupe De Gras - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Mot G. - September 4 - 4:23 am

  Ive owned many Pontiacs and this is one of my favorites. From the sloping rear deck to the 18" wheels, its a looker. Little things like remote starter and heated seats come in very handy on those cool days. The ride is excellent for its size thanks to the long wheel base. More driver headroom than my 04 Grand Prix.

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  2005 G6 GT - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By sms1 - September 4 - 1:00 am

  This was the first brand new car Ive ever purchased and overall Ive had nothing but headaches with it. The first thing to go was the stereo wiring within the first year, which was fixed under warranty. Then at 62,000 miles the timing chain in my engine broke. Thankfully a call placed to the GM customer center got my engine replaced for free even though the original warranty had expired. Last year I received a safety recall on it for brake light & cruise control issues, had that fixed and now a year later, Im experiencing the same issues again with the brake lights. The only reason Ive kept it this long is that the engine now is pretty new and its almost paid for.