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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  4Dr GT Loaded w/Panoramic Roof - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By DocWyeth - May 26 - 5:40 pm

  At 64" I love this car. Tilt and telescoping steering wheel have come in handy. My shorter daughter loves the 6 way seat. I rarely use the air (temp has to be 90+) because it is so nice to tool down the road with the roof open. This car is the most neutral car to drive. No over or understeer. Upgrade the tires from the OEM and you have a great sports car. I dont car for the driver info center being incorporated in the radio. You cant upgrade the radio. Gas mileage is 26.3 for the life of the car and on trips to Florida we have 30mpg+ at 80mph, Wow. If you have a heavy foot at lights expect to get under 25mpg.

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  Great middle of the road car - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By kas652 - May 21 - 3:50 pm

  I purchased my 2007 G6 used with 24,000 miles on it. Ive had it for 3 months and am very satisfied with the car. I have no serious complaints to report. It is not a luxury car by any means, but it is a step up from a corolla or sentra, while not costing much (if any) more. Overall, a great car for the price!

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  Best thing since sliced bread - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Phil - May 20 - 11:10 pm

  I purchased my G6 only a week ago and it only had 23 miles on it. I now have 515 miles and it seems the more I drive the car, the more power it has, and the better the MPG gets. Im very pleased with the options the car came with for the money. I wanted a new car and didnt want to spend a fortune for one. To make a long story short, for the money, this is the best built, best performing, most comfortable car Ive ever owned. Pontiac you have made me a happy man.....so far. Hopefully I wont need the 5yr 100K powertrain warranty.

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  Its sharp! - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Dez - May 15 - 5:26 am

  This is my first new car, although this car is technically a used vehicle. I bought it with 12,500 miles on the odometer. Overall GM has done a good job with this vehicle. For the price I couldnt have gotten a better more stylish 07 midsize vehicle. $15,000 altogether and I have the V6, 17in alloys, and lip spoiler. Im only 20yrs so I feel the design does a good job of apealing to a younger generation. Although I love my car a few things can be improved. Im not a big fan of the hydraulic assisted steering, not sporty at all, not even as good as the 07 Carmy and thats not perfect either. GM cheaped out on the interior a little but thats nothing new. Ride quility is good though.

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  Great Car! - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By James - May 14 - 9:16 pm

  The car is roomy, peppy, sharp looking, versatile. We are very happy with it!

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  Good Choice - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By dmg1mn - May 14 - 7:13 pm

  Love it. I have always owned GM vehicles, This is my favorite. I have the base model. Affordable, drives nice, looks good.

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  my new pontiac g6 - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By nurseshawn73 - May 1 - 4:33 am

  Overall I love the G6! Its been nice getting great mileage. Its also sporty unlike some mid-size cars on the market today. I definitely didnt want a grandmas car at my age!

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  Sound system hurts ears - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Nancdir - April 24 - 11:00 pm

  When the radio is on regardless as to the volumne the drivers window has to stay open or I get this horrible vibrating, and my ears literally hurt. If only the back windows are open the rear window by the speakers also will vibrate from the wind. The dealer stated that it is normal and nothing can be done. !!!!!!!!!!!

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  All around excellent vehicle - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Mark - April 21 - 10:43 am

  If you are looking at Accords or Camrys you had better check out the G6 before you buy. GM hit the bullseye with this car. Great styling, great fit and finish. Interior is well laid out and comfortable. I have had the car 6 months and have 21,000 miles on it. I average 28 - 30 mpg on the highway, and I dont baby it! Tremendous room inside for a car this size. One word of caution. If you are tall (0ver 6 ft) the large sunroof may cut into your headroom. I am 510" and have no problems. Trunk size is larger than I expected. Because of the adjustable pedals and steering wheel, both my wife (52") and I (510") can easily find comfortable driving positions.

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  To"buy or not to buy" - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Danny - April 16 - 3:40 am

  Found this to be a smooth riding car and well built. No squeaks when going over bumps and the vehicle felt "solid".