Pontiac’s new compact coupe the G5 joins the model lineup for 2007, replacing the 2005 model Sunfire. The G5 combines performance in a sleek new design that incorporates Pontiac's signature grille, sculpted lines and GM’s premium Ecotec engine. Designed on the same platform as the Chevrolet Cobalt with snappier styling, the competitively priced G5 coupe will take on economy sport coupes such as the Ford Focus and the Honda Civic.

The 2007 Pontiac G5 is all-new for 2007, offered in base coupe and GT trim levels. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, MP3-capable AM/FM/CD audio system and rear spoiler. The GT adds sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, sport rocker moldings, chrome exhaust tip, fog lights, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, leather-wrapped shift knob and cargo net.

The G5 is powered by a 2.2-liter (L), 148-horsepower (hp) Ecotec engine and the GT by a 2.4 L, 173hp Ecotec engine. A Getrag five-speed manual with overdrive is standard on both models; a four-speed automatic with overdrive is optional. EPA estimates rate fuel economy at 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

The Pontiac G5 has a sculpted body with a low, broad stance and muscular styling. The coupe wears Pontiac's dual-port grille, sweptback headlamps, 15-inch wheels and a rear spoiler on a high deck, in keeping with its sporty nature. The G5 has a 103.50-inch wheelbase and is 179.80 inches long overall. The GT trim wears 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels.

Standard exterior features include touring tires, compact spare tire, 15-inch steel wheels, power exterior mirrors, power windows, rear window defroster, tinted glass, dual sun visors, intermittent windshield wipers, front and rear bumpers and a rear spoiler.

The G5 has a snug fit and is well appointed with 42.0 inches of front legroom and 38.1 inches of headroom. Bolstered seats are comfortable and supportive; interior plastics are a dark shade of grey; the dash features a hooded instrument panel with red-on-white gauges. The center stack is neat and incorporates deeply recessed cup holders, controls for audio and air-conditioning.

Standard interior features include AM/FM Radio/ CD/MP3 Player, Radio Data System, interior air filter, manual air conditioning, and carpeted floor mats. Seating and storage includes a 60/40 split rear seat, cloth upholstery, manually adjustable driver’s seat, floor storage console, 4 cupholders and door mounted map pockets. Optional packages include the Preferred, Premium, Security, Sport and Sun & Sound Packages which include various value added features.

The G5 makes its debut in the niche compact sport coupe market, a segment that faces competition from SUVs and crossover vehicles. The G5 will compete in terms of performance, safety, ride quality and accommodations. The G5 delivers a peppy performance and a quiet ride.

Standard safety features include driver airbag, passenger airbag, cutoff switch/sensor, side guard door beams and a trunk anti-trap device. Side curtain airbags and vehicle theft tracking/notification are optional. The G5 earned “Excellent” ratings for passenger safety; “Good” for driver safety and “Good” for side impact protection front and rear.