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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  New Car - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Sam - August 1 - 3:26 am

  We bought this car brand new with 12 miles on it, then we had to take it to the dealership twice with a problem of power steering going out, when we told them the doors leaked, they told us they could not help that, it was a problem that would take time due to not having parts. Within the next couple of weeks she got a letter in the mail that said an ignition starter had to be replaced. The car is still a pain in the butt, when its raining the top lights leak the doors leak into the floor board, and currently Im in the market for a new car because, i went to the dealership for the same power steering problem, and now the ABS box is fried. Do not purchase one. Worst decision we made!

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  Nothing but Problems!!!!! - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Kim - July 23 - 11:03 am

  I bought this car in January 07, to downsize from a Gas sucking Yukon. This is a nice looking car and I thought I loved the panoramic roof. WRONG!!!! I do love to ride with the roof open but when it is closed, there is so much wind noise that you can not even talk! My car is in the shop now for the 9th time to repairs this. They have had it for 9 days now! GM is involved and I hope they buy it back! Multiple other problems exist as well, brakes, environmental system was putting a bad smell into the car, power steering racks wen out when car was 11 months old, had to have heaters on seats checked. Gas miles not as good as stated.

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  Nothing better in this price range!!! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Stan77 - July 22 - 9:03 pm

  I did a ton of research for a new car in the $20-$22K range and I can honestly say that youre not going to get a better car for the money, nor one that looks, feels, or drives better. When you opt for the premium upgrade package that includes the 17" chrome wheels, 6 cd changer, and sunroof, this car is gorgeous!! The 3.5L V6 has more than enough power for city driving and highways and the comfort for driver and passenger is amazing VERY roomy. The most amazing thing about this car (especially in black) is the way it looks at night!!! With all laser red dash and gauge lights it doesnt get much sexier than this. I would highly reccomend this car to anyone looking for the best around 22K.

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  Great car-reasonable price - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Adam W. Davis - July 22 - 11:56 am

  This is a wonderful car to drive and the price is inexpensive for the quality that you get. It could be easily be compared to a honda accord but it is bigger and more comfortable. If you are looking to purchase a great midsize, it is well worth your time to look at the pontiac g-6.

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  Nothing but problems!!! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By bucaboi - July 20 - 12:10 am

  My biggest mistake in life so far has been purchasing this vehicle. NO JOKE. So far Ive had nothing but problem after problem with this horrible car. The engine is great. I love the power, the steering, the design of the body. But when you get past all that and everything just seems to fall apart starting the 2nd day after you bought it, you get a little upset. Let me just tell you a couple of the problems ive had.........sunroof doesnt work (took it in 4 times and still nothing), sunroof and side pillars leak when it rains (causing carpet and seats to grow mold),......ABS,traction control, and airbags stopped working. car shakes when braking, rotors and brake pads replaced.

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  Gone But Not Forgotten - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By wvu - July 17 - 11:20 am

  I had driven less than 700 miles on my car when I was rear ended by a tractor trailer at a stop light. The truck skidded for more than 45-50 feet. The car was smashed up to the back seat. There is no trunk left. My car was totaled. The police officer said that the car did its job and that he would recommend getting another. My sons car seat was intact (he wasnt in the car). There was glass all over the back seat. However, the impact stopped at the back seat. I plan on buying one again. Hopefully this one lasts longer than 20 days.

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  Very Dissappointed in this car! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Crazy_lady955 - July 4 - 12:33 pm

  This car is a piece of junk! The steering rack has broken twice, the passenger window slams down when you do the auto down, now the check engine light is on and I get this message check gas cap. One time my gas cap was off completely. I wish I had never got this thing. And god knows how many more problems we are going to have Im nervous I dont have the money to replace all the crap that is going wrong with this. This car must be made in China, and the driver side seat heater is broken for some reason. Im disappointed.

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  GREAT car!!! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By michael jennings - July 2 - 12:26 pm

  Wonderful looks, comfort, performance, gas mileage. Everyone looks at it when I drive it.

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  review and corrections - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Marcel - June 27 - 4:16 am

  Nice car. Rather heavy, but that doesnt seem to bother the 3.9 engine. O correction to the reviewer who listed horror when the vehicle continued to crank after the key was let go because the system incorporates an electronic monitoring of the cranking system. It is designed to continue cranking after the key is let go until either 10 seconds elapses or the engine starts. Overall, the car has had a few major issues. Front Brakes continue to warp despite 4 rotor replacements and new pads. Radiator Leakage Steering column (popping) (known issue) Smaller issues are: radio keeping flipping between radio and CD on its own (usually when the radio signal call sign has a * next to it

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  Get a G6 and live! - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Marc B - June 25 - 2:46 am

  I just bought this car to improve my MPG for work and play. Advertised at 20 City and 30 Hwy, this is a solid car that is fun to drive so far. I am about 61" and can sit very easy in the front or back. Zippy V-6 will make you drive more aggresively if you are not careful...life is short, live it! I got mine well equiped for under 20K.