Pontiac G6

Introduction

The Pontiac G6 is a mid-size car produced by General Motors from 2004 to 2010. It replaced the Pontiac Grand Am and was offered in sedan, coupe, and retractable hardtop convertible body styles. Positioned as a stylish yet affordable option, the G6 was marketed toward younger buyers looking for sporty design and practicality. It represented Pontiac’s attempt to modernize its lineup in the 2000s.

Exterior

The Pontiac G6 featured sleek and modern styling with Pontiac’s signature split grille, sharp headlights, and smooth body lines. The coupe and convertible versions added a sportier flair, while the sedan emphasized everyday usability. The retractable hardtop convertible was a standout feature, offering both coupe comfort and open-air freedom. Alloy wheels and performance-oriented trims gave the G6 a more athletic stance.

Interior

Inside, the G6 offered a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to five passengers. The design was straightforward, with clear instrumentation and user-friendly controls. Depending on trim, the G6 could be equipped with cloth or leather seating, premium audio systems, and power accessories. The convertible version included features designed to maximize comfort in open-top driving.

Safety Features

The G6 included a solid set of safety features for its class, such as front and side-impact airbags, ABS brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control on later models. Child seat anchors, tire pressure monitoring, and improved crash protection were also available. Its safety ratings were competitive with other mid-size sedans of the time.

Engine Trims

The Pontiac G6 was offered with a range of engines, from a 2.4L 4-cylinder for fuel efficiency to 3.5L and 3.9L V6 engines for stronger performance. The high-performance GTP and GXP trims featured a 3.6L V6 and even a 5.3L V8 in limited versions, making the G6 one of the more powerful cars in its class. Transmission options included manual, automatic, and 6-speed automatics in higher trims.

Maintenance

The G6 required regular servicing, including oil changes, brake checks, and suspension care. Some owners reported issues with electronics and steering systems, so preventative maintenance was important. With parts widely available due to GM’s large network, maintenance costs were relatively manageable compared to competitors.

Competitors

The Pontiac G6 competed with mid-size sedans and coupes such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima. While rivals often emphasized reliability, the G6 stood out with its sporty styling, multiple body styles, and strong performance in higher trims.