Acceleration

GT, automatic	Class Average
5	4.9

We have only tested a G5 GT with automatic transmission. Acceleration is adequate but not as lively as 171 hp should act. It feels only slightly quicker than similar Chevy Cobalts with the 148-hp 4-cylinder engine used in the base G5. The automatic transmission is responsive and quick to downshift for more passing power.

Fuel Economy

GT, automatic	Class Average
7	6.4

We've not measured fuel economy for a G5, but a similar Cobalt with the 148-hp engine averaged 25.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. Base G5s use regular-grade gas. Pontiac recommends premium for the GT.

Ride Quality

GT, automatic	Class Average
5	5.1

With its sport suspension, G5 GT is firm and stable on most road surfaces. It never feels uncomfortable.

Steering/Handling/Braking

GT, automatic	Class Average
6	5.8

Some body lean is evident while cornering, but the GT has good overall stability and grip. The steering feels quick and informative. GT's standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes have good stopping control.

Quietness

GT, automatic	Class Average
4	4.4

Though road and wind noise is modest, the 2.4-liter engine in the G5 GT buzzes and drones while accelerating and cruising.

Controls

GT, automatic	Class Average
6	5.7

Control placement is mostly logical, though the climate control knobs are set too low for easy access while driving. The gauges have indistinct markings and for some are recessed too far into the dashboard for easy reading.

Details

GT, automatic	Class Average
5	5.2

G5's cabin makes liberal use of hard plastics, but the trim is more sporty than cheap.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

GT, automatic	Class Average
5	5.6

Average for the class. The seats are generally supportive and have generous rearward travel to accommodate tall drivers. Visibility is fine to the sides, but a tall rear spoiler and high deck obscure the view to the back.

Room/Comfort (rear)

GT, automatic	Class Average
2	4

While the front passenger seat slides forward, access to the rear seats requires contortions. Once back there, space is tight even for medium-size adults.

Cargo Room

GT, automatic	Class Average
3	5

G5 has a usefully shaped trunk with good room that's expandable via folding rear seatbacks. The trunk opening is too small to accept bulky items, however. Interior storage is limited to a small glovebox, center console, and door pockets.

Value within Class

GT, automatic	Class Average
5	6.1

Like the Chevrolet Cobalt with which it shares its basic design, G5 is a reasonably priced compact car with decent handling response and interior design. A coarse engine and lackluster acceleration even in the top-line model betray its sporty intentions. Lack of a 4-door body style further limits G5's appeal.

Total Score

GT, automatic	Class Average
53	58.2

Scores for all Compact Cars

Low Score		50
Average Score		58
High Score		71