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:
Showing 31 through 40 of 925.00-
2005 V6 G6 - 2005 Pontiac G6
By Cafasco - September 19 - 6:00 pmLast week, I traded in my 05 Acura RSX for a 05 v6 G6 std. sedan. It only had 2,842 miles on it. In comparing the two, I really like the G6 a whole lot better. Interior fit and finish is actually better than the Acura (I was surprised by squeaks and rattles in the RSX). Exterior F & F is close, but not quite there. Im getting 31MPG in mixed suburban driving and 34MPG @85mph on the highway. My RSX got 33/36mpg. I have a hell of a lot more room and an AT. G6 Radio reception BLOWS away the Acura as does the sound quality (both have six speaker systems). The G6 handles well, but not as tight as the RSX, which was actually work to drive. G6 steering is a touch vague against the RSX.
-
Fun Car for 2nd Childhood - 2007 Pontiac G6
By Michigan Bob - September 19 - 2:33 pmMy wife and I are retired and traded in our Chrysler 300 to purchase this Fun (2nd) car. So far it is everything we hoped it would be. It has great acceleration, handling and braking. We feel safe because of the Stability Control System and the side impact air bags. The 8 speaker Monsoon system sounds great with controls on the steering wheel. We love the fact that its a hard top in the winter. Everyone we see wants one including our daughter who is out looking for one now. It draws looks everywhere we go especially when putting the top up or down. We are getting 3 miles per gallon over what the sticker said and the price was under 30K. Cant beat it.
-
ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!! - 2005 Pontiac G6
By Lorie - September 18 - 12:33 pmMy husband and I started looking at this car before it was available. We finally got to purchase it in Nov. Dealerships in our area didnt receive until then. I will tell you this! IT WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT!!! We have almost 4000 miles on it already and I still want to just go everywhere and anywhere, just to drive it.
-
I like this car! - 2005 Pontiac G6
By clairissa - September 18 - 10:00 amThis is the second Pontiac I have owned. First was a Pontiac Grand Am GT 2 door sport coupe. It was a sporty looking vehicle, but definitely not practicel. The G6GT model offers both sportiness with practicality. Definitely a fun car to drive, handles well and gets good gas mileage. Im definitely very happy with my decision.
-
Im Impressed! - 2005 Pontiac G6
By M. Hobby - September 15 - 6:23 pmIm impressed with my new G6. This is my first Pontiac and I was a little apprehensive in purchasing a first year model. Ive had a few first year vehicles that have caused me nightmares. The feel is above my expectations and more! I love driving my new G6 and the LA traffic isnt so bad with the stereo system. I get a lot of approving looks and have been told that it looks like a BMW or some other over priced vehicle. Thanks Pontiac!
-
My grown up car - 2005 Pontiac G6
By Brenda23236 - September 10 - 10:33 pmI bought my G6 because I wanted a "grown-up" car with bells and whistles that was responsible and safe. I am insurance-cost conscious and I wanted it to be young and fun. I found all of these things in my purchase. It is the best thing I have done for myself in a long time!
-
One problem after another!! - 2009 Pontiac G6
By cassandra1189 - September 1 - 8:27 pmI have had this car for a year and I cant wait to get rid of it! Bought it used with 40k in June 2010 and after a week noticed that the carpet in the back was wet. Thought it was a seal in the door but a few weeks later I had over an inch of water in the back. STILL having problems a year later! Driver headlight doesnt work, Ive had the bulb replaced and wiring tightened, still comes on and off at random. Brake lights stay on all the time, except when Im USING my brakes! Had the brakelight switch replaced and still not working properly. The silver/chrome interior is peeling and looks horrible. Had a 1999 grand prix that I loved and this car has definitely been a disappointment!!!
-
Love My G6! - 2007 Pontiac G6
By Tiffany - August 28 - 12:23 pmI got my G6 in January 07 and have loved it since. Its fun and easy to navigate. I think its extremely roomy inside, especially in the backseat. The only problem that Ive had is during on of our snowstorms in February I slid into a snowbank and about 5 MPH, and it shattered my bumper and radiator. Granted it was cold out, I think the construction of these parts could have been a bit more withstanding to such a small incident. Otherwise, I would highly recommend Pontiac to anyone I know!
-
MyG6forJWJCNAS - 2006 Pontiac G6
By Jack W. Smith - August 19 - 7:33 amBought as an extra car for going to work and some regional travel. The car, according to the CARFAX report, was a former rental company car since made available for consumer purchase. Weve had it for a week since we bought it and I can say we are Very Impressed with the G6.
-
Lovin it! - 2006 Pontiac G6
By Midgt - August 10 - 10:53 pmIve been very impressed with how this car handles & drives! It looks sharp & sporty but retains the comfort & roomy- ness of a family sedan.
