2008 Pontiac G6: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Pontiac G6 lineup gets some trim and detail changes. This midsize car is available as a 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe, or 2-door convertible with a power-retracting hardtop. G6 shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Malibu, Saturn Aura, and Saab 9-3. Sedans are available in price-leader 1SV, Base, GT, and sporty GXP trim. Coupes are available in GT and GXP trim, and convertibles are GT only.

Base and 1SV sedans have a 164-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. GTs have a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 219 hp in sedans, 217 hp in the convertible. This engine is optional on the base. Convertibles are available with a 222-hp 3.9-liter V6. All these engines team with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A manual transmission is no longer available.

GXP coupes and sedans have a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a 6-speed automatic. They also have specific interior and exterior trim with an available "Street Edition" package that includes dual hood scoops and unique rear spoiler.

Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.