Pontiac G6 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.33/5 Average
925 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 771 through 780 of 925.00
  • The "G" in G6 stands for great! - 2006 Pontiac G6
    By -

    My wife and I fell in love with the 2006 G6 sedan when we first saw it and took it for a test drive. It is a great car that is a lot of fun to drive. If youre not careful, you can be going alot faster then you realize, as it has a very smooth/comfortable ride and pick up and go. I am extremely happy with everything about our car! We highly recommend a G6 to everyone.

  • All in all, pretty content - 2006 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Bought this vehicle wrecked and replaced front end. Four months later the brakes locked up and I wrecked, having to replace the front end again. If you keep it out of sticky situations, its a good car. Intake is really low on it as well, so its best to not take it through a deep puddle. Wheel bearings are out at 70,000 miles too. I like the vehicle and reliability, but its best to invest some money in new brakes and such when you buy one. All wrecked G6s are wrecked in the front, making me think other people have had the same problems with their brakes. But, I think any vehicle is going to give you some problems.

  • GM ... Never again - 2006 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Ive had my car for three years. While I love the look and style of the car, Im extremely disapointed in the quality. So far Ive replaced or repaired the following : Jan 06 - New Struts R&L Apr 06 - New hubs & alignment Jul 06 - Rattle in head liner Oct 06 - Machined rotors Nov 06 - Water in head light Jan 07 - Replaced handle on seat and repaired rattle in trunk May 07 - New transmission (6 spd) Jun 07 - New front brakes (After market) Oct 07 - New steering colunm and inserted foam behind surge tank. Jan 08 - New windshield wiper motor Aug 08 - New driver side window switch Sep 08 - Transmission mount replaced (broken) Jan 09 - New bearing in clutch Warrenty ... pheww

  • Fun & economy! - 2008 Pontiac G6
    By -

    I am loving my 2008 Pontiac G6 convertible with greater mileage than I expected (32 MPG hwy/22 city). Just so fun to drive, & observe the admiring glances at the car. The acceleration, relative quiet of ride, on-command manual transmission, sound system, fit & finish are up to the most finicky standards, for the price range. Such a great value..I am very happy with this car (former Buick LaCrosse CXL owner)

  • Like the car hate the finish - 2007 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Living in Fl. I use the retractable hard top often and have never had a problem with it. Although it is a little awkward having to hold a button down for 30 sec. to lower the top. I have had so so gas mileage. My major problem has been with the finish on the hood of the car. It started chipping in November 2007. The dealer fixed it then and said they did the whole hood. Now I am having the same problem in the same spot 8 months later and they want to charge me for the repair. I have read other G6 consumer reviews who have had the same type of problem. Made a complaint to GM Service center but they went along with the dealer and said it was my problem to fix.The finish is poor on the G6.

  • Fun car! - 2007 Pontiac G6
    By -

    We have really enjoyed our G-6 Hardtop convertible. It has been so much fun to have a fun car at a reasonable price.

  • Great Car, Fun to drive!! - 2005 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Its been a wonderful car and does have great handling! Very sporty car and can definitely keep up with the higher price sedans anyday

  • Take that Hybrids! - 2007 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Many friends laugh when I mention my car gets over 35 mpg on hwy. I average a 150 mile commute everyday and my meter can vary from 32-42 mpg (varies on my speed, 65-80 mph). either way I LOVE IT! I schedule my oil changes every 5,000 miles (not 3,000). I have not done my transmission fluid change, yet. and Ive put over 87,000 miles and it still runs like new!

  • Beware of Pontiacs - 2006 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Do not buy a Pontiac, especially from this dealer (Capitol Buick Pontiac GMC in Baton Rouge)! I have only had the car for six months, and it has been in the shop over six times for the same things (broken speaker, leak in the sunroof). I traded in a 97 Nissan Sentra that had only been in the shop for repairs twice in its entire life!!! The dealership keeps on giving me the run around about the repairs. I wonder how many of the dealers have free leaks! They even made the mistake of telling me that there are several G6s that are being brought back because of the same problem!

  • Great 2005 G6 Pontiac - 2006 Pontiac G6
    By -

    Great on the super highways, I was pleasantly surprised how well it handled at high speeds..Even with the smaller 6 cyl engine it had plenty of muscle for passing or merging...With the seating adjustments and steering wheel option positions it was no problem getting a comfortable and safe position for the longer trips...

Pontiac G6 Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area