2005 Pontiac G6 GT
04/11/2005
Shahed Hussain
The long-running Pontiac Grand Am has been finally retired, and has been replaced by the new G6. Although the Grand Am was Pontiac's best-selling model for years, the larger G6 promises to entice buyers who would have never considered a midsize car from Pontiac.
A casual glance at the G6 reveals that this sleek sedan bears no resemblance to its awkwardly cladded Grand Am predecessor. In fact, the twin grilles in the front fascia are the only exterior cues that immediately identify the G6 as a Pontiac. GM design is finally evolving to reflect more contemporary styling themes in midsize cars. Meaty 225/50R17 V-rated all-season tires, mounted on 17-inch polished 5-spoke aluminum wheels are available on the G6 GT. Although the radical departure in appearance from the Grand Am may put off some previous Pontiac customers, it should attract the attention of some buyers who might consider a Camry or Accord, but want more sporty styling.
In another break from the past, the G6 interior design is completely new, with attractive low gloss grained plastics, and uncluttered surfaces. Door and dashboard trim colors match or complement each other. Chrome-rimmed bezels around the speedometer and tachometer add a sporty flair to the instrument panel. An optional large Panoramic sunroof extends over the rear seats (a normal sunroof is also available). Segmented transparent panels fold accordion-style when the sunroof is opened. The steep windshield rake does have a penalty: taller passengers can bang their heads against the low, sweeping A-pillar. Overall interior build quality is far superior to the previous Grand Am, and is close to its Japanese competition.
The standard cloth seats are upholstered in a grippy mesh fabric that is cool and comfortable (leather seats are optional). Power driver seat controls have 6-way adjustments. The G6 interior is spacious enough for a family of five to travel comfortably. A 150-mile road trip with 3 adults and 2 kids in car seats resulted in no complaints from anyone. In all fairness though, only relatively petite adults will be happy sitting in the center section of the rear seats, which is raised above the level of the outboard seats. Although the short rear doors can impede access to the back seats, there is enough legroom for most adults.
Only a 4-speed automatic (with manual shift mode) is offered on the GT. Unfortunately, with its widely spaced ratios, this automatic is mostly unsuited for sporty driving. Full throttle downshifts are delayed more than expected, and the transmission will stubbornly refuse to downshift appropriately when going up long grades, causing the G6 to progressively lose speed. Fortunately, a quick flick to the manual shift mode can circumvent the recalcitrant transmission logic. In manual mode, the automatic is significantly more responsive, and will hold a selected gear as requested. Pontiac should offer a standard (or at least optional) 5-speed automatic like its Japanese competitors. Note that a 6-speed manual is available in the G6 GTP, so buyers willing to pay a premium can get a more appropriate transmission.
All G6 GT models are equipped with a 3.5L OHV V-6. Although the engine makes decent power and torque, the sluggish automatic does not take full advantage of this motor. At highway speeds and at part throttle, this V-6 is pleasantly unobtrusive. At the upper end of the rev band, the engine becomes unpleasantly loud, and annoying vibrations can be felt in the cabin and steering wheel. Despite GM's insistence on low cost OHV (pushrod) motors, the G6 simply deserves better. All other competitors (including Ford and Chrysler) offer smooth multi-valve OHC power plants that are noticeably quieter at high RPM.
It's clear that Pontiac did extensive handling development with the G6. The sport suspension (with larger diameter front and rear anti-roll bars) is tuned for a smooth ride, but with firm damping to keep body motions in check. The G6 telegraphs road textures via the leather-wrapped steering wheel. With minimal understeer at moderate cornering speeds, this Pontiac is a pleasure to hustle through the corners. Superb steering response ensures that it tracks accurately, without requiring mid-corner corrections. Cruising at 90 mph on the Interstate, the G6 GT is calm and unruffled. Unfortunately, a penalty for the responsive suspension is objectionable tire noise on coarse asphalt surfaces, which can drown out conversations with rear seat passengers.
The G6 is a breakthrough midsize car for Pontiac, although its overall competence is marred by a few easily remedied details. The GTP version should address the engine and transmission issues, but the base and GT models suffer from an underperforming 4-speed automatic, and a need for a more refined V-6. Unfortunately, in the brutal midsize sedan market, any new model has to be competent in all major aspects to be a success. If GM can resolve these issues with the G6, then it could be a more credible alternative to the Accord, Altima, and Camry.