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:

• 

  Look but dont buy! This car is horrible - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By pontiac no more - September 27 - 4:00 am

  I have had nothing but problems with this car since 2000 miles. Constant vibration and bounce that dealer cant fix. Got GM involved but nothing resolved. Recently had the rotors resurfaced, again, oil level sensor broke, seat weld broke and more rattles. 20,000 miles later and the vibration still there. Finally called a lawyer. Im just glad I leased! No wonder the big 3 are failing, poor quality and lack of interest in consumers!

• 

  G6 Never Again! - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Brent455 - September 10 - 10:26 am

  This is the worst car I have ever owned. The Sun visors fall out if you try and move them to the side windows, the starter re-engages on its own after start up, the throttle sticks open from time to time, the wind deflector on the moon roof broke about two weeks after purchase.

• 

  Will never buy Pontiac again!!!! - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Kristina - September 2 - 3:46 am

  When I first saw this car, I had to have it. It was sporty, roomy, and a good affordable price. Well, you get what you pay for!!! I have had to bring it in the shop several times....a ball joint and power steering column replacement, random lights bulbs go out all the time, keyless entry failed all of a sudden, belt replacement, shock replacement. I mean come on!!! The car isnt even that old. Might I add that I purchased the model with the panoramic sunroof...what a piece of crap. The noisiest ride ever. It is so loud I can barely stand it. I think it was cheaply made...looks good from the exterior, but runs like a cheap go-cart!! Thank god i bought an extended warranty

• 

  Never Again - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Disappointted - January 29 - 2:36 pm

  Ive had more problems with this car in the last two years than any other vehicle Ive owned.It shakes when I try to stop, it makes clunking noises when i turn, it continues to crank after already crunk, cuts off, water in the head light, pins in the sunroof keeps slipping out, brakes issues, and many more issues.I will not ever buy another Pontiac.Very poor quality vechile. Some issues not covered under warranty even though so many are having the same issue. Great customer right.. NOT.

• 

  Im never looking at another Pontiac. - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By never buy pontiac - January 17 - 2:43 am

  I got my G6 in May 2008. Complained about the brakes up the first two weeks of me buying the car. (7000 mi @ purchase) I have been to the shop complaining about brake numerous times! The car is always ticking and making a squeaky noise. I have no clue what it is. The check engine light has came on a few times. I want to get rid of this! Sticking with Honda and Nissan from now on! I would never buy another G6 or suggest that anyone else does!!

• 

  I bought a lemon - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By donna - January 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought my car 3/2006, brand new, and I have experienced several problems with this car. 2 years ago there was a loud noise coming from the engine and I went to the dealer on 3 occasions and eventually they fixed it. This Saturday while driving, the car just stopped with no warning, in the middle of traffic, on Crenshaw Blvd. I complained to the corporate office the 1st time about the noise and complained about it this time. I was told by the dealer that the engine was frozen and that I needed to pay for them to take the engine apart to see what was wrong. I paid for an extended warranty and smartcare, and I am still being held responsible. I did everything that I was supposed to do. Danger!