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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  Gentleman Start Your Engines - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Deaun - May 20 - 4:06 am

  Although sometimes my auto-start feature will strain my starter out for about 3 seconds, this car is completely great. I have a family but am also a "lead foot" so this car really incorporates what i need in a vehicle along with making it possible to grocery shop or drive around everyone.

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  Fun, fun fun. - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By JULIANK - April 6 - 9:40 pm

  Bought this car to match the fun I have with my motorcycle. I use every hand and foot to shift and brake with it and I wanted a car to match that level of involvement. This G6 GTP is a hoot to drive and it goes like a fireball when I put my foot into it. Lots of fun but can get well over 25 mpg when I drive like my wife does.

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  Steering Wheel Problems - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By Carla - March 20 - 9:53 pm

  My husband and I purchased the g6 gt less than one month ago. It was love at first sight until it was time to parallel park on the streets of New York/New Jersey (which is a must living in the City). After a few left and right turns the wheel suddenly got extremely stiff that it was nearly impossible for my 63" 200 lbs husband to turn the steering wheel any further to park properly. Took the car back to the dealer to have it tested and he found the same problem. He contacted GM about problem waiting for a response since it seem to be a manfacture problem. The dealer also test another car but the wheels were not as stiff.

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  Fun enough, but not impressed - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By AmandaJo88 - March 12 - 4:50 pm

  I bought this car 3/2008 used with 29000 miles but I am starting to worry about problems. My trip odometers reset on their own and a few months ago I noticed rotten egg smell and it started to guzzle gas like no tomorrow (I have to get gas 2x/week when I used to 1x/wk). Burning smell/rotten egg smell with hard acceleration. Sunroof squeaks and interior side panel rattles. However, I do enjoy driving fast and keeping up with all the other "racers" out on the road. But the longer I drive, the slower the car seems to accelerate. Overall its a nice fun car to drive, but doesnt seem as reliable as it should be.

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  great little car - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By rgebo5150 - March 8 - 7:54 am

  Just got my G6 and so far its a good car. Only problems I have so far is my stereo cuts out alot and its just the front speakers that do this and the other is that if Im going 55 mph my rpms are at 3000. Is anyone else seeing this or is it just my little 4 cylinder? That seems high and would get better gas mileage if it was lower. Would love to hear if yours is the same way.

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  G6 GTP - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By dmo4cwo - February 20 - 11:33 pm

  Approx 3k miles as of Aug 2006. At 300 miles, had oil leak. Dealer replaced rear engine seal. Multiple paint issues. Black paint did not cover primer and was very transparent on deck lid. Paint is very thin on this vehicle. Being in the auto repair business, I know what to look for and honestly feel GM could have done a better refinishing job on this vehicle.

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  My dream car - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Ann - February 8 - 12:06 am

  Fell in love with this car from the day I saw it. I did hear many complaints regarding the sunroof and water leaking from it, so I decided to go for the 2008 Coupe GT model. Ive had it for 1 month and totally love the way it drives. It has an amazing power and its very appealing. Ive had people come to ask me what kind of car it is. Therere not too many G6 coupes here in FL, so its head- turner everywhere I go. It motivates me to go anywhere!

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  This is a good car - 2009 Pontiac G6
  By Mar - January 27 - 10:46 am

  I purchased the 09 G6 as a replacement for my 07 G6 as the 07 was stolen and totaled. If for a minute I didnt loke the 07 model, I never would have purchased the 09. It is a good looking car and fun tho drive. It has enough power with the 3.5 V6 and handles good. I am so mad that GM stopped making Pontiac. I have owned Pontiac for the last 20+ years, and will miss them. I am still a GM guy, I just have to decide where to go next in the GM family. I remember on a 500 mile trip, I got 30.2 MPG and did not go under 55 MPH, spending much of the time at 70MPH and more. I was impressed with that. OnStar and navigation are useful also. I recommend this car to all!

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  Why did I Settle? - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By L.A. - January 20 - 12:50 pm

  Reading whats on here made me cry. It really is a death trap. I have a 2006 Pontiac G6. I didnt have it two months before Engine Power Reduced popped up. I can be on the highway going 60 and my speed will reduce to 35. I wont even be able to pull a hill. I thank God I didnt get in a wreck because of this car. I tried all I can. I dont have any more money to spend on parts that dont help the problem. I cant talk to the people at GM any more. I cant call lawyer any more. I tried giving the car back. I tried turning it in to be repo. But, I will still have to pay remaining balance after they resale the car. I hate this. Paying for a car for 16 months that I cant drive. cant be fixed

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  Nice Car, but..Buy The EXtended Warranty - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By SelmaSmith - December 29 - 7:33 pm

  Very comfortable car, 19MPG city, 30MPG highway. I loved my G6 for comfort and style. But, at 8,000 miles the bumpy ride got much worse, rotors needed resurfaced, steering problems. (Many blog comments on these problems.) But, if you must buy this car - before you buy, drive this car on bumpy roads. Whatever you do, you must buy the extended warranty from the dealer. Ask about steering problems, riding problems, rotor problems. Car rides bumpy, close to the ground like a sports car. Takes turns great..like a sports car. You decide.