2005-2008 Pontiac G6: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger room
- Control layout
Cons
- Engine noise
Vehicle Highlights
Pontiac replaced its best-selling Grand Am during the 2005 model year with the G6. It shared a basic front-wheel-drive design with the Chevrolet Malibu and the 9-3 from GM-owned Saab. G6 had a slightly longer wheelbase than Pontiac's other midsize car, the Grand Prix, but was 9.3 inches shorter in overall length. G6 offered base and sportier GT models. Both used the 200-hp V6 and 4-speed automatic transmission offered in Malibu. The GT added a manual shift gate and a firmer suspension. Both versions had 4-wheel disc brakes. The GT came with antilock brakes, traction control, and power-adjustable pedals, all of which were available for the base G6. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags were available as a single option. Leather upholstery and OnStar assistance were exclusive GT options. Satellite radio and remote starting were available on both models. So were a conventional sunroof or a "panoramic" power sunroof with a tilt-up front section and three rear-sliding panels that opened to near the full length of the passenger compartment.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Pontiac G6 base sedan w/ ABS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2005-2008 Pontiac G6. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2005-2008 Pontiac G6.
Year to Year Changes
2006 Pontiac G6:
Pontiac completed its rollout of the G6 lineup by adding body styles and new engines. Coupe and power-retracting hardtop convertibles joined the G6 stable. A price-leader 1SV sedan arrived with a 167-hp 4-cyl engine. At the top of the G6 roster, GTP coupes and sedans had a 240-hp V6 (GTP convertibles had 227 hp) and optional 6-speed manual transmission.
2007 Pontiac G6:
Pontiac's best-selling car got some new and more-powerful engines for 2007. GTs had a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 224 hp in sedan and coupe, 217 hp in the convertible; it up from 201 hp in 2006. For '07, GTPs traded the 3.9 for a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6. Curtain side airbags were now standard instead of optional on sedans and coupes.
2008 Pontiac G6:
The 2008 Pontiac G6 lineup got some minor trim and detail changes. A manual transmission was no longer available.
Our road test for the 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Models with the 200-hp V6 have good acceleration from any speed, including the convertible, which weighs some 400 lb more than the sedan. A test manual-transmission GTP coupe steadily builds power with smooth throttle response. Automatic and manual transmissions are responsive, though the latter suffers from a scraping metal feel during gear changes. A test GT sedan and convertible averaged 19.5 mpg, and a manual GTP coupe averaged 19.1. All G6s use regular-grade fuel. No G6 matches the refinement, composure, or quietness of the class-leading Honda Accord or Toyota Camry in ride and handling, but these Pontiacs don't significantly trail them either. G6 is competent in these measures with respectable ride control and good grip in fast turns. Steering feel is overly light at low speeds, which helps in parking maneuvers but causes numbness on the highway. The hardtop convertible is stiffer than competitive soft tops from Chrysler and Toyota, but body flex is still noticeable. The hardtop makes the convertible nearly as quiet as the sedan, but all G6s still allow some engine, road, and wind noise to get into the cabin. G6's interior is a step up in appearance and materials quality than the Grand Am it replaces. Seats are softer than in many rivals, and testers say they are short on long distance support. The standard tilt/telescope steering wheel is a comfort plus. Vision is impeded by tall front headrests and thick roof pillars. The rear seat has ample leg room, but the sloping roofline limits head room in all models. The narrow trunk has a small opening and tall liftover, so loading bulky items is a chore. The rear seatbacks unlatch from the trunk but don't fold completely flat. The convertible has 5.8 cu ft with the top up, and that shrinks to 1.8 cu ft with the top down.
Value for the Money
G6 lacks the well-toned feel of a Honda Accord, the isolating comfort of a Toyota Camry, or the raw coltishness of a Nissan Altima. But it undercuts them all on price, especially with a V6 engine. The convertible benefits from its retractable hardtop and impresses for its solidity and smart pricing. Frequent discounts and a wide selection of safety and convenience features add to its appeal. The G6 coupe is too large for the interior space it provides, making a sedan the wisest choice here.
G6 lacks the well-toned feel of a Honda Accord, the isolating comfort of a Toyota Camry, or the raw coltishness of a Nissan Altima. But it undercuts them all on price, especially with a V6 engine. The convertible benefits from its retractable hardtop and impresses for its solidity and smart pricing. Frequent discounts and a wide selection of safety and convenience features add to its appeal. The G6 coupe is too large for the interior space it provides, making a sedan the wisest choice here.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Pontiac G6 base sedan w/ ABS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Pontiac G6 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Pontiac G6 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Electrical problem:
The PCM was being replaced for a defective chip under a voluntary emissions recall because it affected the fuel pump and EGR system. (2005)
Engine noise:
The serpentine drive belt on the 3.5L engine may squeal and smell of burning rubber and a revised belt is available for replacement. (2005)
Engine noise:
A whistling noise from the 3.5L engine during acceleration is corrected by replacing the PCV tube. (2005)
Fuel gauge:
The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender and if after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2004-06)
Water leak:
Water may leak into the driver's door causing the doors to unintentionally unlock or deactivate the theft system and/or the trunk may release at speeds under 3 mph. The problem is corrected by reprogramming the body control module, however the key won't then work to open the doors or trunk. (2005)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $600 |
| Alternator | $270 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,600 |
| Brakes | $325 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $830 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $930 |
| Exhaust System | $420 |
| Radiator | $190 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $720 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $1,320 |
Our price chart for this generation Pontiac G6 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| G6 | $13,500-15,200 | $12,300-13,800 | $8,000-9,000 |
| G6 GT, GTP | $16,000-18,500 | $14,600-16,800 | $10,200-11,800 |
| G6 convertible | $22,000-24,000 | $20,200-22,100 | $14,300-15,600 |
| 2007 | |||
| G6 | $12,000-13,200 | $10,800-11,900 | $6,700-7,400 |
| G6 GT, GTP | $14,000-15,700 | $12,700-14,300 | $8,500-9,600 |
| G6 convertible | $19,500-21,500 | $17,900-19,800 | $12,700-14,000 |
| 2006 | |||
| G6 | $10,800-12,000 | $9,700-10,800 | $5,800-6,500 |
| G6 GT, GTP | $12,000-13,500 | $10,800-12,200 | $6,700-7,600 |
| G6 convertible | $17,500-19,500 | $16,100-17,900 | $11,200-12,500 |
| 2005 | |||
| G6 | $9,800-10,800 | $8,800-9,700 | $5,100-5,600 |
| G6 GT | $11,000-12,000 | $9,900-10,800 | $5,900-6,500 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Pontiac G6 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.3 | 112.3 | 112.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.0 | 189.0 | 189.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.6 | 70.6 | 70.6 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.0 | 57.0 | 57.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 818 | 3380 | 3380 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 5.8 | 11.0 | 14.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.4 | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.4 | 38.9 | 39.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | 42.2 | 42.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.1 | 36.3 | 36.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.2 | 35.8 | 37.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||
Powertrain Options and Availability
2005 G6 models had a 200-hp 3.5-liter V6 and 4-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain carried into 2006, joined by a 167-hp 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine and automatic transmission on 1SV and base models. The 2006 G6 GTP had a 240-hp 3.9-liter V6 and standard 4-speed automatic transmission or optional 6-speed manual. For 2007, GTs have a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 224 hp in the sedan and coupe, 217 hp in the convertible. It had 201 hp for 2006. For '07, GTPs trade that 3.9-liter for a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 3.6 / 217 | 252 | 251 | 6-speed automatic: 20/28 | 6-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 145 | 167 | 162 | 4-speed automatic: 23/32 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V6 | 3.5 / 213 | 200-224 | 221 | 4-speed automatic: 21/29 | 4-speed automatic: 19.5 |
| ohv V6 | 3.9 / 237 | 240 | 241 | 6-speed manual: 18/26 4-speed automatic: 18/24 |
6-speed manual: 19.1 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Pontiac G6 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2005 G6 w/ side airbags |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2005 G6:
Some vehicles may have a misprint in the owner's manual regarding the position of child safety seat anchors. Pontiac will mail owners a supplement with the correct information.
2006 G6 w/aftermarket leather seats:
Testing has indicated that the aftermarket leather seat covers can cause the passenger sensing system to malfunction. If the passenger sensing system malfunctions, the front air bag on the passenger side may be disabled when it should be enabled, or enabled when it should be disabled. GM will purchase these vehicles for the full price paid for it (not exceeding the fair market value at the time it was bought), including taxes and fees, if the vehicle is returned to GM's possession by January 31, 2007. Through January 31, 2007, GM will also pay for the removal of any aftermarket accessories that may have been installed and return them to the customer.
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