2006 Pontiac G6: What's New

Vehicle Overview
Pontiac introduced the sporty midsize front-wheel-drive G6 sedan for 2005. Replacing the Grand Am, the company aimed the G6 at such competitors as the Dodge Stratus, Mazda Mazda6, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima and Volkswagen Jetta.

Pontiac promoted the new family of performance-oriented powertrains. For 2005, only a 3.5-liter V-6 was offered in base and GT models. A remote starter was optional.

In addition to the 201-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6, a 167-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder is available in 2006 sedans. Pontiac also is launching a G6 coupe and a convertible with a retractable hardtop. GTP versions of both get a newly available 240-hp, 3.9-liter V-6 and General Motors’ StabiliTrak electronic stability system as standard. A six-speed-manual transmission is available in the coupe.

Dual-stage front airbags now incorporate a passenger-sensing system, and a three-spoke steering wheel replaces the original four-spoke wheel for 2006. New 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels go on the GT convertible and GTP models.

Exterior
Displaying a wedge-shaped profile, the four-door G6 has wraparound headlights and triangular wraparound taillamps. Built on a 112.3-inch wheelbase, each body style has short overhangs, measures 189 inches long overall and is 70.6 inches wide. Pontiac’s signature twin-port grille has chrome accents and mesh inserts. Pushed-forward A-pillars give the windshield a sharper rake. Up front, the new coupe and retractable-hardtop convertible look similar to the sedan, but the doors are 6 inches longer and the rear ends differ.

The G6 uses a sport-tuned fully independent suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars. Traction control is standard. Three tire sizes are available: standard 16-inchers for the base sedan, 17-inchers for GT models and 18-inchers for GTP editions.

The available Panoramic sedan roof contains four sliding glass panels, which can create a convertible-style open-air driving experience.

Interior
Like other Pontiac models, the five-passenger G6 cockpit contains sporty controls and racing-style gauges with red LED backlighting. The retractable hardtop model features 2+2 seating. Brushed metal accents and chrome trim decorate the interior. A tilt/telescoping steering column is standard, and adjustable pedals are optional.

Due to its relatively long wheelbase, the G6 sedan promises abundant backseat legroom. Rear windows in the sedan roll down all the way. Gas-charged trunk struts don’t invade cargo space when the lid is down.

Under the Hood
A 201-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 goes into GT sedans, but the base sedan holds a 167-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder. The new GTP editions get a 240-hp, 3.9-liter V-6. A four-speed-automatic transmission is standard, and GT and GTP models feature a manual-shift mode. Either a four-speed-automatic transmission or a six-speed manual can be installed in sedans and coupes with the 3.9-liter V-6.

Safety
Antilock brakes are standard on GT and GTP models. Side-impact and side curtain-type airbags are optional in coupes and sedans.

Driving Impressions
With the 3.5-liter V-6 and automatic, the G6 sedan performs well enough, aided by mannerly automatic-transmission operation. Though it’s an improvement over the Grand Am, the G6 isn’t a big step forward. Despite more solid construction, it feels like GM cars of the past.

Handling is on the ordinary side, and substantial steering effort is required. The G6 is quiet and rides comfortably most of the time. Monsoon radio controls are confusing. Rear legroom in the sedan is good, but headroom is horrible.