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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  Good car for little cost - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By mjswan - January 26 - 10:50 am

  Bought mine used for a song. Perfect car for commuting 25 miles with mostly LA freeway traffic. Gas mileage is very good if you drive reasonably. In the first year I put on 35,000 miles and hav no complaints about quality or drivability. My wife thinks it looks better than most of the smaller sedans on the road--it doesnt look like everything else out there. Overall a very underrated car.

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  love my car - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By misfitz - January 23 - 11:06 am

  This sites reviews have really helped us find the right vehicle for us to purchase next, so I thought I would weigh in on the car we already have. I love driving the G6, its a lot of fun and handles great. Great acceleration, turning radius, handling. The interior has way more room than it looks! Weve had several guys over 6 tall ride in the backseat with plenty of room to spare. Had it almost 5 years and reliabilitys been great. Even with several cross-country trips, it still drives great.

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  08 Pontiac G6 - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Kelli - January 20 - 12:53 am

  I bought my Pontiac G6 brand new in April 2008. About two months later I started to have problems with it. Its the same problem every time. The passenger side window leaks all the time. I have had it fixed three times already. In Nov. 09 I steering and strut went. I would never recommend Pontiac to anyone. I have looked at other cars but my payments are so cheap, plus it is pretty cool having a car that wasnt made for very long.

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  Best 4-Seat Convertible Value in the US - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Convertible Steve - January 18 - 2:33 am

  By far, G6 hardtop convertible is the best value in this segment. All expectations have been met or exceeded, & it has been relatively free of "surprises." Noticeable negative is interior plastics. GM really "stretched" to make this a truly affordable, modern 4-seat convertible, & for the most part, it succeeded. Top mechanism is unbelievably complicated, so an extended warranty is likely to be wise purchase. Power of 3.5L engine is fine, but occasionally feels sluggish at highway passing speeds. Surprisingly, fuel economy exceeds 17 city/26 hwy EPA estimates by 10 - 15%. Tranny is well-mated to engine. Wide turning radius, but otherwise handles well. And best of all, a rock-solid ride.

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  marks - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By mark mitchell - January 16 - 4:06 am

  This car is performing very well for me, I just took it on a 300 mile trip and got 34 mpg. I took it through the mts and it was great around the corners, up the hill and down.

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  Great deal on a fun car! - 2009 Pontiac G6
  By Julius McCarthy - January 15 - 7:16 pm

  I have had this car for 4 months now and am very happy. The car rides exceptionally well, is fun to drive, and smooth on the freeway. The 4-cyl engine is adequate for my needs and gets fairly good gas mileage. I love the sunroof and the car looks great with the rear spoiler. This is my first car with Onstar and the navigation turn by turn directions are very convenient, especially when looking for a particular restaurant around town. Overall, this car has great value and Im pleased with my purchase.

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  Mark - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By mark mitchell - January 14 - 11:30 pm

  Excellent Experience so far. Have had this car 3 weeks and have put 1500 miles on it. I love to drive it. Just took it through the smokies and it handled great around the bends, up the hills and down.

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  Midlife Crisis Resolved - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Gary B. - January 12 - 9:56 pm

  I love everything about this car! The ride is smooth and comfortable with plenty of power, zip, and pep. Its simply a blast to drive top up or top down. With the top up Ive heard a few times, how is that a convertible? I get fond looks and compliments from many folks with the top down. I enjoy driving it as well as being a passenger. Move the front seat a notch or two and Im comfortable in the back seat and Im 62". I know theres room for 4 adult sized adults in this car. No room in the trunk with the top down? So what, theres plenty of room in the back seat. Mustang cant say that!

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  great looking car, not so great quality - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Disappointed buyer - January 11 - 11:40 pm

  Purchased my Pontiact G6 new. Loved the look but disappointed in workmanship. Was back at dealer during the 3 year warrenty period many times. 4 Paneled sunroof took several trips to dealer to fix major rattle. Kept the car a week. 3 years later roof rattles again. Check engine light comes on about every 6 months. Changed sensors several times.Plastic parts on doors, windows constently rattle. Stereo speakers needed replacement. Biggest problem is with steering on cold days. Recall work done has not solved it. Love the car but Pontiac needs to get their act together and stand behind their workmanship! I might have to buy Japanese cars next time if they dont get their act together!

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  I like IT - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Fred - January 11 - 12:33 pm

  With over 117 models to choose from these days I went through several before making a decision and I can say this was and is a good decision. The car has great performance, handling and ride. Considering I examined cars from 18 to 36K this has everything a normal person could want at a great price. The last time I owned a pontiac was in 1990 and after that never considered them again until this came along the G6 coupe came along. All I can say is its about time!