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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Best car Ive ever owned! - 2005 Pontiac G6
By Bob - August 8 - 3:46 amI bought a silver 05 G6 STD sedan 18 months ago and havent had a problem with it yet. The fuel economy is great, even though I only have the 4- speed automatic. The car drives and handles great-both in the city here in Washington, DC and on the highway on my way out to the beach or to Pittsburgh. When I first bought it, I couldnt stop staring at it. I still get compliments on the cars styling. If youre looking for something that looks great, is practical and economical, youve got to test drive this car. One note: I should have gotten the XM radio option. I had to retrofit an aftermarket unit, which doesnt look as clean as if I would have just gotten the optional radio.
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Great wheels - 2008 Pontiac G6
By marvel90 - July 31 - 7:53 pmThe Monsoon Sound system is much better than the Bose in the Infiniti I traded. Never had a car before that got "lookers" when I was at the gas station! Only flaw-the instrument panel gauges do not have illumination during the day, great at night!
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Black Beauty Pontiac G6 - 2006 Pontiac G6
By WEandJB - July 28 - 10:33 pmThis automobile is not only classy looking, it is fun to drive and has a very peppy 3.5L engine that will run with the best of them. It is the closest thing you can get to a Cadillac without actually having to pay the price of a Cadillac.
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Impressed! Value! - 2008 Pontiac G6
By bvdj84 - July 26 - 2:43 amI am impressed with this car! My first American car. I came from an 06 Accord, though this car is not a Honda, it certainly upholds a good standard. I have all the options I could want, and could compare to the options of the VW Passat. Smooth ride, getting more smooth engine, not as refined as Accord. Interior is pretty nice. Great gas mileage, and finding this car to be a lot of fun!Its a happy car! Sporty looking! I got the fully loaded G6 with the 4cyl. I am really enjoying it, I miss my Accord, but this will be fun to drive! Killer for me is the resale value, but I think Pontiac is going in the right direction! Will I be back to Honda Acura, probably, but this is fun for now! Great car
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The Car You Should Get - 2007 Pontiac G6
By Smosy - July 24 - 11:43 pmThis is the car you want. The 0-60 is the same as the new Charger police cars, and the handling is unbelievable. The 6- speed manu-matic is so smooth, you dont even feel the shifts for normal driving, and when you want to gun it, the shift remains smooth (try downshifting - vrooom) The leather seats are extremely comfortable, and the seat heaters come in handy. With the remote start, I never have to get into a hot car in the summer, or a cold car in the winter, big plus.
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4door GTP - 2007 Pontiac G6
By Ira - July 22 - 8:53 pmImpressed with engine performance and quietness of engine and vehicle. Handling and steering effort have a nice balance. Interior done well Recommend change chrome trim on instrument cluster to a titanium metal look as sunlight can reflect. Also, needs more aggressive spoiler. Seats are very comfortable and supportive. Electronic rear view mirror a plus. Monsoon sound system is excellent sound quality. A real blast to drive.
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Best Pontiac I Ever Owned - 2005 Pontiac G6
By rgilm2468 - July 21 - 7:43 pmThis is my wifes car but I drive it every chance I get. This is our 8th Pontiac, and I would rate it the best. No body side molding, 17 inch wheels make for excellent cornering and panoramic roof is a lot of fun. Im 62 and it has more than adequate leg room. It looks fairly small from the outside but the cabin is quite large. Adjustable pedals and telescoping steering wheel would make it hard for anyone not to find a comfortable driving position.
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My new G6 - 2007 Pontiac G6
By MJW70 - July 21 - 3:10 pmI love this car! I had researched for the last couple of months before buying, and I am very pleased with this car. So fun to drive and plenty of room. Very tight steering and handy/easy to read gauges.
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G6 GT Coupe - 2006 Pontiac G6
By LSparks - July 21 - 6:10 amI recently purchased my G6 GT Coupe to replace my 05 Chevy Equinox. My main reason for the purchase was gas mileage. So far, I have been very impressed, as I am getting almost 25 mpg. The G6 handles great and has much to offer in additional options. I am impressed with the styling of both the interior and exterior. This car is a real eye-catcher! The manumatic shift is a fun addition to everyday driving. I have heard very little road noise and I am impressed with the power of the 3.5L V6. To me, I have received a lot of car for the money. So far this has been the best out of the 4 previous Pontiac models I have owned.
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Hot car but.... - 2006 Pontiac G6
By RSSDRIVER57 - July 19 - 8:50 amI have this car for about a month now and I really do like it. It looks great and is very quite and is alot of fun to drive.The 3.5 engine gives you more horsepower the you will need in any situation. There are several what I consider minor flaws, one of which is the ride. The sports suspension handles great and is very responsive but gives a hard ride. When you go over a bump you will feel it and I havent gotten the 21mpg City or 29mpg Highway the sticker claims you get yet. Check out suggestion improvements for more.
