Used 2007 Pontiac G6

The G6 Coupe plays a key role in GM’s recovery effort and represents a powerful example of how Pontiac’s design philosophy once again aims to lure back driving enthusiasts. Forget the plastic-clad Grand Ams of the past; this coupe is sleek, sophisticated and built for driving. Available in two trims (the sportier being the GTP), the G6 targets import buyers who want a bit more flair but don’t want to break the budget. While not up to the overall standards set by the Honda Accord, the G6 Coupe definitely presents strong competition for the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Ford Mustang V6 and Hyundai Tiburon.

The GT’s base 3.5-liter engine doesn’t inspire performance driving, but it is adequate for quick jaunts up freeway entrance ramps and around town driving. We wish the six-speed manual (available only with the 3.9-liter V6) were available with the GTP model, as its 3.6-liter V6 is both spirited and refined. As it is, GTP drivers will have to settle for the six-speed automatic, which does a good job finding the correct shift points, but leaves the driver feeling somewhat disconnected from the process.

Both the GT and GTP trims use a hydraulic power steering unit that returns good feedback and on-center feel. The G6’s sport suspension strikes a pleasant balance between performance and comfort, although hardcore enthusiasts will probably disagree.

The G6 interior is a bit of a mixed bag. We applaud the clean design, excellent seats and generous legroom. The plastics used on the dash, console and door, however, have a heavy, hard feel and the chrome trim rings surrounding the instruments seem a bit trendy and overdone. Controls are placed within easy reach and we welcome the optional steering-wheel mounted switches for the audio system. The instrument panel’s orange backlighting and large, legible numbers and letters make night driving easier on the eyes. Tall passengers occupying the rear seats may find that the raked rear window limits headroom.

Compared to previous Pontiac coupes, the G6 is a breath of fresh air. Its sporty sheetmetal is devoid of tacked-on plastics and garish add-ons, relying on strong design elements and a fastback-like rear window to convey its personality. The familiar Pontiac split grille and swept-back headlamp lenses remain in place, as do the numerous red arrowhead badges. With its wheels pushed to the outer edges, the G6 appears longer than it actually is; this approach also reduces front and rear overhangs – an important design element that allows for better maneuverability.

Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
Finger tip controls allow the driver to operate the audio’s volume and song selection settings from the steering wheel.

3.6-liter VVT V6 engine
The newest GM V6 is thoroughly modern and long overdue. Smooth, quiet and powerful, the 3.6-liter engine wants only for a nice manual transmission.

The GT trim includes a 3.5-liter V6, four-speed automatic transmission, traction control, single-disc CD player, air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), 17-inch alloy wheels, Monsoon sound system, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, head-curtain airbags, four-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a sport-tuned suspension. The GTP adds the 3.6-liter V6, a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control and a six-way power driver’s seat.

Options for the G6 include a 3.9-liter V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission (GT only), StabiliTrak electronic stability control, power sunroof, six-disc CD/MP3 changer, OnStar telematics, power-adjustable pedals, heated seats, leather seating surfaces, remote engine start, front side-impact airbags and XM Satellite Radio.

The 3.5-liter pushrod V6 provides adequate power but lacks a sense of urgency. If you’re purchasing the G6 GT to perform, you should opt for the optional 3.9-liter V6, which entitles you to a six-speed manual transmission but also the poorest fuel economy figures of the bunch. Moving up to the GTP gets you the new 3.6-liter V6, which delivers the power and quietness expected in this price range along with good fuel economy.

3.5-liter V6
224 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
220 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/30

3.6-liter V6
252 horsepower @ 6300 rpm
251 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28

3.9-liter V6
240 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
240 lb.-ft. of torque @ 46 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/27 (manual), 17/24 (automatic)