2005 Pontiac G6

Pontiac bills its newest sedan as "The first ever G6." That implies two things. First, it is very different from its predecessors, and also there are more and better G6s to come. Correct on both counts.

The G6's longest-in-class wheelbase brings a supple ride and ample rear-seat legroom.

Compared to the long-running Grand Am coupe and sedan it replaces—good values, if not stellar automobiles that sold consistently well despite being skewered by critics for their plastic side cladding, inexpensive interiors and plebian powertrains—this "first ever G6" is a rock-solid improvement. Built on GM's rigid, Euro-designed Epsilon architecture (shared with Opel Vectra, Saab 9-3 and Chevy Malibu and Maxx), it combines a smooth, quiet ride with athletically taut handling thanks to its stout structure, well-engineered suspension and segment-leading 112.3-inch wheelbase.


This "first" G6 gets the same 200-hp 3.5-liter cam-in-block (CIB) V-6 that more-than-adequately powers Chevy's Malibu and Maxx, driving through the same electronically controlled four-speed automatic. Smaller, lighter, less complex, less expensive and less refined than overhead-cam V-6s found in typical competitors, it gets the job done surprisingly well. Zero to 60 comes up in a respectable eight seconds, while EPA estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city, 29 highway. But if higher performance is prominent on your priority list, a 240-hp 3.9-liter "high-output" version of the CIB V6 will follow soon, available with automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox, plus a 170-hp 2.4-liter Ecotec DOHC "HO" four for those more concerned with the high cost of fuel.


The MacPherson-strut front suspension with aluminum lower control arms is mounted to a U-shaped hydroformed cradle isolated from the body by four specially tuned rubber mounts. The four-link independent rear suspension uses twin-tube shocks and, like the front, a direct acting stabilizer bar. Sixteen-inch wheels and full-function traction control are standard, with 17-inchers on the GT and 18-inch performance wheels and tires available. Steering is variable-assist electric, while large, heavy-duty 4-wheel disc brakes boast reduced caliper drag and European-style pads for excellent stopping power, fade resistance and pedal feel. ABS is standard on the GT.

The new G6 boasts nicely supportive seats and sporty chrome-rimmed gauges.

What Pontiac calls an "engaging, driver-oriented interior" may be the best-designed, highest-quality interior in any Pontiac ever. In addition to a subtle, handsome look, tight fits and suitably upscale materials, it features a tilt and telescoping steering column, leather-wrapped wheel, nicely supportive seats and sporty chrome-rimmed gauges with red LED backlighting. Additional available features include adjustable pedals, driver information center, XM Satellite radio and premium Monsoon sound system with in-dash 6-CD changer.