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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  I love my Pontiac - 2009 Pontiac G6
  By jitensha jin - December 28 - 9:36 pm

  This is my first convertible. I love the hardtop convertible. Cant figure out why GM chose to drop the Pontiac line.

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  got to love it - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By steve - December 26 - 3:20 pm

  fun to drive easy handling good on gas especially on highway. plenty of pep but not overpowering. only feature didnt like was the on and off dash lights.

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  Overall Nice Car - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By wrestleman125 - December 22 - 7:33 pm

  This car is nice, fun to drive, and very reliable. I have had my G6 for 1 year now and have about 11,000 miles on it and have had absolutely no problems at all. My wife owns a Camry and likes to drive the G6 more then her vehicle. Also if you live somewhere cold I advise you to cough up the couple of dollars and get the remote start... its fantastic.

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  Awesome Car!!! - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By StephH - November 3 - 9:40 am

  I purchased this car about a year ago and I still LOVE it!! I previously had a grand am that I liked, but I got sick of it after only 9 months. this is the only car Ive ever had that I didnt get sick of right away. Also the first brand new car I ever got. The exterior is amazing, I have seen some reviews about them not having remote locks, I guess I thought it was standard. I have remote lock/start, sunroof, 19" rims, V6, heated leather seats, automatic with manual option, telescoping steering wheel.

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  Great car - 2005 Pontiac G6
  By ed - October 13 - 7:10 am

  I bought this car used about a month ago and smile every time I look at it. It is very fun to drive and the steering is so light you can turn it with one finger. There is enough acceleration for me and still gets in the high 20s for gas mileage. I also like how it is so quiet even at speeds above 70. I live in central Minnesota so the remote start and traction control is a great option to have. The sound system is great even for being the base system. The driver information center is a nice feature, it has avg speed, mpg, oil life, and others. The back seat is enormous even for taller people. This is a great car and if you need a sporty car that is very reliable this is it.

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  Pontiac G 6 V 6 - 2009 Pontiac G6
  By jd - October 5 - 8:00 pm

  The Pontiac G6 V6 is far superior to similar models that Japan, Korea or Europe sells in the USA. Great looks, excellent handling, great fuel economy (30+ open road mpg for our 3.5 V6), and overall quality. Another plus, it does not decide to run away by itself, like Toyotas.

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  Unexpected love - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By Timberly - October 5 - 10:46 am

  I had a 2001 Pontiac Grand Am and I hated it! I told myself that I would never buy another Pontiac. After I totalled my Grand Am, I found this car and I convinced myself to buy it because it was super cute! I totally love this car! Its fun to drive! I feel so safe driving it! I love the interior lights on the dash.

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  Sporty goodness - 2007 Pontiac G6
  By Champion3000 - September 27 - 1:56 am

  For the price I found this car to be a pretty solid purchase. I opted for the 3.9 liter engine with the 6-speed manual, and the premium package. I love the way the car looks and handles, and am also positively impressed with the build quality. I am a little disappointed that the 6 disc in-dash changer is not mp3 compatible, and Im also not a very big fan of the front cup holder location. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase and get a smile on my face whenever I drive it.

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  G6 is Great - 2006 Pontiac G6
  By Laurie - September 25 - 4:20 am

  I have been driving this car for three months and it handles like a dream - good acceleration, responsive steering and road hugging ride. It is a very quiet, comfortable ride. The panoramic roof is a lot of fun - you feel like you are in a convertible. Plus, just opening the sunshade gives you a bright, cheery interior. I highly recommend this car. It is safe and stylish!!

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  Loving My GXP! - 2008 Pontiac G6
  By ObcidianButtrfly - September 21 - 8:06 am

  This is my fisrt new car and I am in love. Everywhere I go it gets looks and comments. Great ride. Pick up is good as well. I would recommend this car to anyone look for a fun sporty yet daily driver car. Love this car, Ill definetly have it for a long time. Exterior design is great. No need for any upgrades, street edition comes loaded.