The Pontiac G6 is equipped with a long 112.3-inch wheelbase for exemplary ride and handling characteristics, helped in large part by the MacPherson strut front and four-link rear independent suspension. Variable-assist electric steering guides the way, and meaty four-wheel-disc brakes haul the G6 down from speed. Pontiac G6 GT models get traction control and ABS as part of the price of entry. Standard on the SE are 16-inch wheels. GT and GTP versions have 17-inch rims, with 18-inch alloys optional on the GTP. In designing the Pontiac G6, stylists pulled the front roof pillars four inches further forward than its platform-mate, the Chevy Malibu, to make the windshield rake appropriately racy. Panel gap tolerances appear to have been closed up, providing a high quality, upscale appearance to the exterior. Pontiac hasn't chintzed on the details, either. Instead of using plastic, real metal mesh decorates the familiar twin-port grille. Additionally, gas struts instead of gooseneck hinges hold up the trunk lid. And though it appears that the back seat is small, in reality the Pontiac G6 offers impressive legroom for rear seat riders. We think the front overhang is excessive and out of proportion with that of the rear, but otherwise, this is good stuff. Similarly, the cabin represents a leap forward in terms of the quality and appearance of the materials. Brushed metal trim and chrome accents are used to great effect, and leather upholstery is available. Gauges are lit in Pontiac's traditional red hue, this time with LEDs providing illumination. We might have toned down Pontiac's traditional circular air vents a bit, but otherwise, GM nailed the cabin close to the bull's eye. Standard equipment includes the usual suspects, along with projector beam headlights and a handy tilt wheel that also telescopes to make it easy for the driver to find a perfect fit. Options include side impact airbags, side curtain airbags, power adjustable pedals, automatic climate control, a Monsoon audio system with an in-dash CD changer, XM satellite radio, a panoramic sunroof, and remote engine starting. We think the 2005 Pontiac G6 is a huge step in the right direction for General Motors. If it proves to be as well made and durable as a Honda or Toyota, GM can count on winning back some lost market share. --Photos courtesy of General Motors
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About Christian Wardlaw
Christian Wardlaw joined Autobytel's Automotive Information Center (AIC) in January 2003, and current serves as Manager of Content Development for Autobytel. Previously, Christian spent eight years as Editor-in-Chief and Director of Automotive Data for Edmunds.com. A writer, editor, and automobile aficionado, Christian is a different sort of car enthusiast. His passion lies in the vehicles that people most often buy, rather than with high-performance sports cars or ultra-luxury sedans. “Given the choice to spend an hour with a Dodge Viper or a Honda Accord, I’ll choose the Accord,” he claims. Unless, of course, the driving venue is a racetrack. Christian has been a car enthusiast all of his life, uttering “car” as his first word while growing up in Detroit. A graduate of Western Michigan University, he holds a bachelor’s degree in English. His daily drivers include a 1994 Mazda Miata, a 2004 Mazdaspeed Miata, and a 2005 Nissan Murano.
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