2009 Pontiac G6 Review

Overview

The Pontiac G6 was first introduced by General Motors for the 2005 model year. For 2009, the Pontiac G6 is available as a 4-cylinder model with a new 6-speed automatic transmission. The G6 is a midsize car, available as a 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe, or 2-door convertible with a power-retracting hardtop. It shares its basic platform with the Saab 9-3, Chevrolet Malibu, and Saturn Aura. G6 Sedans come in Base, GT, and GXP trims; G6 Coupes come in GT and GXP trims; Convertibles are available as GT. For the 2009 model year, the G6 gets a refreshing front fascia with sharp character lines. A central air intake below the main grille flanked by two angular intakes which curve around the front bumper is part of the facelift. The cars sporty styling, agile handling, safety features, and 14 cubic feet of cargo space, make it highly affordable at its price tag.

Power and performance

Base G6 Sedans are powered by a 164-hp, 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine. The GT gets a 221-hp, 3.5-liter, V6 which is optional on the Base model; the GT Convertible gets a 222-hp, 3.9-liter, V6 engine. GXP models get a 252-hp, 3.6-liter, V6 teamed with a 6-speed automatic. Other engines are coupled with a 4-speed automatic. A 6-speed automatic is optional on the 4-cylinder sedan. EPA estimated fuel economy is 17/30 mpg (city/highway).

Body and styling

The G6 delivers style and good passenger space; the higher trims are well-endowed for maximum performance and safety. Highlights on the Base G6 Sedan include XM Radio; Monsoon high-performance 8-speaker system with high-mounted tweeters and subwoofer; remote vehicle starter system; OnStar in-vehicle security; navigation, communications, and diagnostics system; 45/45 front bucket seats; 4-way manually adjustable driver seat; rear 60/40 split-folding seat; integrated armrest; adjustable tilt- steering wheel column; leather-wrapped steering wheel; steering wheel mounted audio controls; power programmable door locks; and power windows. Other features include cruise control; power trunk release; manual air conditioning; rear-window defogger; auto-dimming rearview mirror; driver and front passenger vanity mirrors; leather-wrapped shift knob; leather-wrapped brake handle; driver and front passenger seatback map pockets; and trunk cargo nets. Major Packages include the Sun and Sound Package, Sun and Sound Plus Package, Preferred Package, Sport Package, and the Street Edition.

Safety Features

ABS; traction control; anti-skid; air bags; and vehicle theft-deterrent system are some standard safety amenities on the 2009 Pontiac G6. Dual-stage frontal and side-impact for driver, right-front passenger and head curtain side-impact, front and rear outboard seating positions come with a Passenger Sensing System.