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By Autotropolis Editors
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Strengths: |
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Unique folding hardtop convertible; standard side and curtain air bags; fuel efficiency (four-cylinder); solid acceleration (V6s). |
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Changes: |
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For 2008, the Pontiac G6 lineup is bolstered with a new, performance-oriented GXP sedan and coupe, which replace the former GTP for all but the convertible. The convertible is now only available in a single trim, the GT.
Safety is also stepped up. Seat-mounted thorax side impact air bags are now standard on all models, along with anti-lock brakes. Entertainment systems are improved with a new auxiliary input jack for all models, plus OnStar. GT models now get standard XM satellite radio, and an 18-inch wheel option is new for the GT convertible.
Three new exterior colors are offered: Cranberry Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic, and White Diamond Tricoat. |
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Value: |
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The 2008 Pontiac G6 takes a high road between efficiency, comfort, and sportiness, managing to appeal to those who value each; and it's one of few cars in its size class to offer the two-door coupe body style. The convertible model ranks as the lowest-priced vehicle with a power-folding hardtop. |
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Overview: |
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Pontiac's 2008 G6 includes three different body styles-sedan, coupe, and convertible. The sedan is available in base, GT, or GXP trim, while the coupe is offered in either GT or GXP models. The convertible is only available in mid-range GT trim.
The G6 convertible has room for four and a unique, tight folding-hardtop arrangement designed by German coachbuilder Karmann that can stow away in about 30 seconds.
A total of four different engines are offered in the G6 range, each paired with either a four-speed automatic or six-speed automatic transmission. Base G6 sedans get an economical 2.4L four-cylinder engine underhood, with 164 horsepower, matched with a four-speed automatic. GT models step up to a 219-horsepower, 3.5L V6, plus a four-speed automatic with manual control. The top GXP model, which is new for 2008, gets a more powerful, 3.6L engine with variable valve timing, making 252 horsepower, along with a new six-speed automatic, also with manual control. On convertibles, the 3.5L engine is standard, with a 3.9L V6, making 222 horsepower, is optional. Both come with a four-speed automatic.
With the four-cylinder engine, the G6 returns impressive EPA fuel economy estimates of 22 city, 30 highway under the stricter 2008 calculations.
The base G6 includes air conditioning, a CD sound system, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. The mid-range GT adds a generous amount of equipment, including fog lamps, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, keyless entry, leather interior trim, and an upgraded eight-speaker Monsoon audio system with subwoofer.
Besides the new 3.6L engine and six-speed transmission, the GXP brings a sportier edge to the G6, with a performance-tuned suspension, larger 18-inch wheels, the StabiliTrak stability control system, and a number of other improvements in addition to what's offered on the GT, including a unique front fascia, dual exhaust tips, a rear spoiler, heated seats, and automatic climate control.
Six air bags are now standard on the G6, including side thorax air bags in front, and standard side curtain air bags on coupes and convertibles.
Major options-some of them available in value packages-include power-adjustable pedals, six-way power heated leather seats in front, an in-dash, six-disc changer, and remote vehicle start. |
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