Search Consumer Guide Auto and the Web
 

2006 Pontiac G6 Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2006 Pontiac G6 Review:
5. 
Pontiac G6 Photos

6. 
Pontiac G6 Full Review

7. 
All Pontiac G6s

8. 
All Pontiacs


2006 Pontiac G6 Review
Coupe and convertible body styles join the sedan version of Pontiac's best-selling car for 2006. G6 shares architecture with the Chevrolet Malibu and the 9-3 from GM-owned Saab. G6 sedans seat five. Coupes and convertibles seat four. The convertible has a power-retractable metal hardtop with a heated glass rear window. Sedans offer 1SV and base models with a 167-hp 4-cyl engine. Base V6 sedans and GT versions of all body styles have a 201-hp 3.5-liter V6. GTP versions of all have a 240-hp 3.9 V6. G6s come with a 4-speed automatic transmission; it has a manual shift gate in GT and GTP models. A 6-speed manual transmission is available for GTP coupe and sedan.

ABS and traction control are unavailable on 1SV, optional on base models, and standard on other G6s. An antiskid system is a GTP exclusive. GT and GTP have a sport suspension. Front side airbags are optional on convertibles. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags packaged as a single option are available on all coupes and sedans except the 1SV. Optional for sedans is a "panoramic" sunroof with a tilt-up front section and three rear-sliding panels. Available features include power-adjustable pedals, leather upholstery, OnStar assistance, and remote engine start.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.

Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Volkswagen Passat.
News
We've learned that G6 GTP models will soon offer General Motors' "high feature" 3.6-liter V6 with around 270 hp. Look for it in the 2007 lineup. Also look for a sportier GXP model or models with that same engine, plus performance-tuned suspension, tires, and other unique features.
2006 Pontiac G6 Road Test
Pros Cons
Passenger room Engine noise
Control layout
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
6 6 7 5 5.6

No opportunity yet to test 4-cyl G6. Models with 201-hp V6 have good acceleration from any speed, helped by smooth automatic transmission that downshifts readily for impressive passing response. GT convertible 400 lb heavier than coupe, feels slower at all speeds. Manual-transmission GTP doesn't leap off the line, but steadily builds power, answers throttle eagerly at higher rpm. Manual-transmission shifter has positive engagement, but also a scraping metal feel during gear changes.
Fuel Economy

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
5 5 5 5 5.2

Test GT V6 averaged 19.5 mpg. Test manual-transmission GTP coupe averaged 19.1 with slight majority of highway driving. Test GT convertible averaged 19.5 mpg. All G6s use regular-grade fuel.
Ride Quality

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
6 6 6 6 6.1

Not as composed as Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, but compliant base suspension readily absorbs most bumps with minimal bobbing, moderate tire slap. GT, GTP only a bit stiffer, slightly better controlled, but not as unruffled as sporty imports over high-speed dips, swells. Convertible shows modest body flex, shudder over bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
6 6 7 6 6.1

Base model's steering very light at low speeds for easy parking, firms up at higher speeds, but feels numb. Moderate body lean, good grip in fast turns. GT's steering and handling a bit sharper, with GTP the sportiest of all. All have slightly dull brake-pedal feel.
Quietness

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
6 6 6 5 6.2

Suppression of road, wind noise not up to Accord/Camry standards, but acceptable. Bumps caused slight knocking in front end of test sedans. Opened panoramic roof generates less noise but more buffeting than regular sunroof. Convertible nearly sedan-quiet with top up, wind noise impressively low with top down. The 3.5 V6 noisier at idle than most V6s, emits guttural whine under moderate-to-full acceleration. The 3.9 V6 is quieter, more refined than the 3.5.
Controls

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
7 7 7 7 6.8

Gauges clear, lit in red. Audio, climate controls easy to reach, use. Cabin has abundance of padded surfaces, available two-tone panels, bright or woodgrain trim, creating a satisfying ambience at this price level.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
6 6 6 6 6.6

Good head, leg room. Standard tilt/telescope steering, available adjustable pedals enhance driving position. Seats--cloth and leather--softer than in many rivals, and short on long-distance support. Testers divided on how well seat side bolsters hold occupants in place during fast cornering. And some drivers find bolster interferes with arm movement when shifting manual transmission. Vision blocked astern by tall front headrests, to sides and front corners by thick roof pillars, especially in convertible. Kudos for sun visor extenders. Long coupe, convertible doors a hassle in tight spots.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
5 4 3 3 5

All models have ample leg room, even with front seats well back. But sloping roofline, especially in coupe and top-up convertibles, limits head room for those over 5-ft-10. Available panoramic roof steals head room, too, forcing taller passengers to scrunch uncomfortably. Entry/exit easy in sedan, stoop-and-twist in coupe.
Cargo Room

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
3 3 3 2 4.5

Narrow trunk has small opening, tall liftover, but hinges don't intrude on cargo space. Rear seatbacks unlatch from trunk, fold almost flat, have hard plastic backs. Adequate interior storage. Note that convertible trunk volume shrinks to 1.8 cu ft with top down, from just 5.8 cu ft top up.
Value within Class

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
6 6 4 4 6.1

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.
Total Score

Base V6 sdn w/ABS, sunroof GT sdn w/leather, panoramic sunroof GTP cpe, man. GT conv Class Average
56 55 54 49 58.2
Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
44
Average Score
58
High Score
70
2006 Pontiac G6 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 02/07/2006
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
1SV 4-door sedan $16,365 $15,465 $625
Base 4-cylinder 4-door sedan $17,865 $16,882 $625
Base V6 4-door sedan $19,065 $18,016 $625
GT 2-door coupe $21,165 $20,001 $625
GT 4-door sedan $21,365 $20,190 $625
GT 2-door convertible $27,865 $26,332 $625
GTP 2-door coupe $22,865 $21,607 $625
GTP 4-door sedan $23,065 $21,796 $625
GTP 2-door convertible $29,365 $27,750 $625
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
1SV
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, driver-seat power height adjustment, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 215/60R16 tires, wheel covers.
Base 4-cylinder adds to 1SV:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, remote keyless entry.
Base V6 adds to Base 4-cylinder:
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights.
GT adds to Base V6:
Powertrain
4-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Monsoon sound system, illuminated visor mirrors, power-retractable hardtop (convertible), floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 225/50R17 tires (coupe, sedan), 225/50R18 tires (convertible), alloy wheels.
GTP adds to GT:
Powertrain
3.9-liter V6 engine.
Safety
Antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, 6-way power driver seat, satellite radio (requires monthly fee after 3rd month).
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler (coupe, sedan), 225/50R18 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Premium Value Pkg. w/power sunroof
Base 4-cylinder
$1,575
$1,307
GT, GTP
$1,650
$1,370
Base V6
$1,675
$1,390
Power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, sport suspension (Base V6), 225/50R17 tires (Base V6), alloy wheels (Base), chrome alloy wheels (GT), polished alloy wheels (GTP). NA convertible.
Premium Value Pkg. w/power sunroof and black chrome alloy wheels
GT
$1,800
$1,494
NA convertible.
Premium Value Pkg. w/power panoramic roof
GT, GTP
$2,350
$1,951
Base V6
$2,375
$1,971
Replaces power sunroof w/power panoramic roof. NA coupe, convertible.
Premium Value Pkg.
convertible
$
$
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, polished alloy wheels.
Convenience Pkg.
Base
$250
$208
Power-adjustable pedals, cargo net, floormats.
Driver's Pkg.
Base
$650
$540
Convenience Pkg. plus alloy wheels.
Powertrain
6-speed manual transmission
GTP
$0
$0
NA w/power-adjustable pedals. NA convertible.
Safety
Curtain side airbags
Base 4-cylinder, Base V6, GT, GTP
$690
$573
Includes front side airbags. Base requires Convenience Pkg., antilock brakes. NA 1SV, convertible.
Front side airbags
convertible
$295
$245
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes
Base
$400
$332
Includes traction control.
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar assistance system
GT, GTP
$695
$577
Includes one-year service. NA convertible.
Leather upholstery
GT
$1,365
$1,133
GTP
$1,265
$1,050
GT includes 6-way power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Includes heated front seats.
Heated front seats
Base, GT, GTP
$250
$208
Power-adjustable pedals
GT, GTP
$125
$104
NA convertible.
Power sunroof
Base 4-cylinder, Base V6, GT, GTP
$800
$664
NA 1SV, convertible.
Power panoramic roof
sedan
$1,500
$1,245
NA 1SV, Base 4-cylinder, convertible.
Remote starting
Base 4-cylinder, Base V6, GT, GTP
$190
$158
NA 1SV. NA w/6-speed manual transmission.
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
Base
$375
$311
GT, GTP
$300
$249
Upgraded sound system
Base V6
$75
$62
Satellite radio
Base V6, GT
$325
$270
Requires monthly fee after 3rd month. Base requires upgraded sound system or AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine-block heater
1SV, Base 4-cylinder, Base V6, GT, GTP
$50
$42
License plate bracket
1SV, Base 4-cylinder, Base V6, GT, GTP
$5
$4
Rear spoiler
Base
$225
$187
205/50R18 performance tires
GTP
$150
$125
Requires Premium Value Pkg. or polished alloy wheels. NA convertible.
Alloy wheels
Base
$400
$332
Chrome alloy wheels
GT coupe/sedan
$550
$457
Black chrome alloy wheels
GT coupe/sedan
$700
$581
Polished alloy wheels
GT convertible, GTP
$550
$457
2006 Pontiac G6 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Pontiac G6 2-door coupe Pontiac G6 4-door sedan Pontiac G6 2-door convertible
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. 3380 3380 3818
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 11.0 14.0 5.8
Standard Payload, lbs. -- -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 16.4 16.4 16.4
Seating Capacity 4 5 4
Front Head Room, in. 38.9 39.5 38.4
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.2 42.2 42.2
Rear Head Room, in. 36.3 36.3 36.1
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 35.8 37.6 34.2
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I4 ohv V6 ohv V6
Size, liters/cu. in. 2.4 /145 3.5 /213 3.9 /237
Horsepower @ rpm. 167 @ 6300 201 @ 5800 240 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 162 @ 4500 221 @ 3800 241 @ 2800
Availability Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
     
6-speed manual --/-- --/-- 18/26
4-speed automatic 23/32 21/29 18/24
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Pontiac G6 2-door coupe Pontiac G6 4-door sedan Pontiac G6 2-door convertible
Front Impact, Driver 5 5 NA
Front Impact, Passenger 4 4 NA
Rollover Resistance 5 4 NA
Side Impact, Driver 3 5 NA
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5 5 NA
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%. Side-impact 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%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 6/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance 3/36,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: front-wheel drive

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2006 Pontiac G6
Trim Level:  GTP
Arrival Date:  10/13/2005
Engine:  ohv V6
Bodystyle:  2-door coupe
Transmission:  6-speed manual
4WD/AWD:  No
Base Price:  $23,985
Price as Tested:  $28,310
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  2803
Mileage at End of Test:  3221
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  19.118 gals.
 

Major Options:  Premium Value Package (4-18" 5 Spoke Alloy Ultra-Bright Wheels, AM/FM Stereo 6 Disc CD Player - replaces std/opt/pkg radio, Sunroof, Power Tilt & Slide) Leather Package (GTP Leather Appointed Seating, 6-Way Power Driver Seat, Heated Front Seats, Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel, Steering Wheel Radio Controls, Leather Wrapped Shift Knob and Park Brake Handle), OnStar System (includes 1 Year Safe & Sound), Front Side Impact Airbags, Head-Curtain Side Airbags, 6-Speed Manual Transmission (replaces std/opt transmission)

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  21.86 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Rick Cotta Lack of a usable rear seat positions the largish G6 coupe against smaller sporty coupes like the Acura RSX and notably, the new Mitsubishi Eclipse. Oddly, it's a good value in that company. However, this is no economy car, and a BETTER overall value might be the GTP sedan with its REAL rear seat.

Also in the 2006 Pontiac G6 Review:
5. 
Pontiac G6 Photos

6. 
Pontiac G6 Full Review

7. 
All Pontiac G6s

8. 
All Pontiacs


Car Buying Resources

Trade-In Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth

Trade-In Calculator



Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer
Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.



What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn things



Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance



Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers
Sell Your Car



    Sell Your Car
Powered by: