G6: the jealous cousin
When compared to its predecessor, the Grand Am, there are only good things to say about the G6. But don’t be fooled, because contending for the top spot in this category takes more than simply bettering the Grand Am. Granted, the G6 represents an improvement, but it still has a long way to go to catch the leaders.
Interestingly, however, the G6 has a lot of the same features as another of GM’s mid-size sedans, the Saturn Aura, which has earned its share of praise and was even named car of the year in the United States. Considering that the brand new Chevrolet Malibu is also derived from the Aura, one would expect similar kudos for the G6. This brings us to the million dollar question: what do the G6’s cousins have that it doesn’t?
For starters, for the leaders in this category (Camry, Accord, Altima, Aura), size always matters, and in this regard the G6 is clearly less impressive than the Aura. The leaders display more presence on the road, not to mention more interior space. The dimensions of the G6, on the other hand, are more like those of the Ford Fusion or Dodge Avenger. As strange as it may seem, the least roomy mid-size sedans are American!
While the G6 is not as imposing as some of its rivals, its good looks are undeniable. Its lines are fluid, sleek and much simpler than we are used to seeing from Pontiac, and this is true of the sedan as well as the coupe. The retractable hardtop convertible is stylish too, but when the top is down.
GM also kept it simple for the interior of the G6. Gone are the 22 circular individual air outlets, the overly sensual shapes of the instrument panel and the countless buttons all over the steering wheel. From now on it’s the sensible approach, and I must admit that it works! However, the lifeless interior suggests that the engineers who designed this passenger compartment clearly didn’t waste much time on the details. Thanks to the ubiquitous grey and black, the interior is lacklustre, while the red lighting makes it seem more dynamic than it actually is. The quality of finish is a little below average, and conveniences such as storage space are both rare and impractical.
Behind the wheel, the seating position is decent despite the lack of a telescopic steering wheel. The seats are reasonably comfortable and there are no complaints about its ergonomics. On the other hand, the difference between the G6 and the Aura is obvious when it comes to roominess. Head space in the G6 is limited and the backseats are much less spacious; in fact, the space in the back is more like that of a good compact than a mid-size.
Unlike the Malibu and the Aura, there is no hybrid engine among the G6’s four engine types. Most G6 models are available with an economical and reasonably powerful 164-hp, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, or with a slightly outdated 3.5-litre V6 that offers the advantage of better torque, a smoother ride, and surprising fuel economy even when paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. With the convertible, there is also a 3.9-litre V6 that offers only slightly more power at a much higher price than the 3.5-litre V6.
The fourth option, a 3.6-litre V6 variable valve timing engine available in the GXP version, is both the most attractive and most expensive choice. It is a responsive, high- performance and relatively fuel efficient engine that comes with a modern, very effective six-speed automatic transmission. The best choice depends on your budget, but the 3.9-litre V6 seems the least appealing.
The G6’s lines suggest sport capabilities, but this is simply not the case. Sure, it offers good agility and better than average vehicle handling, but don’t expect a ride as dynamic as that of the Mazda6. Here, balance is king. GM succeeded in its attempt to offer decent comfort and vehicle handling, but it’s tough to overlook shortcomings such as slow and imprecise steering, considerable torque effect with the V6, and a large turning radius. Poor sound insulation completes this list.
How about this? Take the Saturn Aura and wrap it in the exterior Pontiac is currently using on the G6. A nip here, a tuck there in the passenger compartment, and there you have it. After all, if the G6 was used as the basis for the Aura and the Malibu, it can’t be all bad!
In the meantime, I have a hard time believing that the G6, in its current form, is in a position to challenge the leaders. Despite the fact that it has many exclusive features, the G6 finds itself in the shadow of some of the new stars at GM because certain components are completely botched. I won’t outright discourage you from buying the G6 because it may just be the right choice for the price for some customers. I will however, strongly suggest that you go to Chevrolet or Saturn where you’ll find a comparable product that is far better made.
Competitors: Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Saturn Aura
Strengths: Seductive lines, great choice of models, competitive price, modern chassis, excellent 3.6-litre engine
Weaknesses: Unpleasant steering, disappointing interior finish, average passenger comfort, useless 3.9-litre engine
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