2009 Pontiac G5: Road Test
2009 Pontiac G5 ▼
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- MSRP: $16,980 - $20,280
- Invoice: $16,216 - $19,367
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Our road test for the 2009 Pontiac G5 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Pontiac G5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Pontiac G5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Pontiac G5 help you decide if a 2009 Pontiac G5 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5 |
With the manual transmission, G5 has adequate go from a stop. It runs out of steam at higher engine speeds, meaning that highway passing and merging require plenty of room and often times a two-gear downshift. Fortunately, the manual has smooth shift and clutch action. No opportunity to test with the automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 7.1 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a G5 XFE averaged 35.6 mpg, outstanding, even in this class. G5 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.2 |
A solid body structure imparts a comfortable and controlled ride with the standard suspension and tires. Any float or wallow is minimal at worst.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
Handling is competent, but far from sporty. Base models with the manual transmission have low-rolling-resistance tires designed to increase fuel economy. Handling suffers as a result, with pronounced body lean and tire squeal while cornering even at moderate speeds. Soft pedal action mars otherwise good braking control.
QUIETNESS
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.8 |
Wind rush is fairly well controlled. The tires rumble on coarse pavement, but the engine is always well muted, even during acceleration.
CONTROLS
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.9 |
Audio and climate controls are simple to use, but the latter might be mounted too low on the center dashboard stack for some tastes. The gauges are large, but their markings are a bit indistinct for optimum readability.
DETAILS
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.1 |
Tasteful cloth fabric and textured plastics make the interior more inviting than the class norm. Faux carbon-fiber trim adds a dash of sportiness. Still, basic hard plastics make up most of the G5's cabin.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.6 |
Most adults will find headroom and legroom in sufficient supply. The very tall will want more head clearance, though. The seats are comfortable enough, if a bit flat for best long-distance support. Long doors make entry and exit a bit tricky in tight confines.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4 |
All forms of room are in short supply, making the back seat a kid-only destination. Entry and exit are coupe-typical crouch and twist.
CARGO ROOM
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.9 |
Good overall trunk room is helped by strut-type lid hinges and split folding rear seatbacks. A small opening hampers loading. Interior storage is subpar, with a small glovebox, center console, and door pockets.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
It's not particularly quick or sporty, and the lack of a 4-door body style also limits this compact's appeal. G5 counters those demerits with pleasant road manners and a handsome interior. Further, in XFE form, it boasts impressive fuel economy. So equipped, this Pontiac is worth a look.
Total Score
| Base XFE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 60 | 60.1 |
Total Score: 60
Scores for all Compact Cars
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