The 2009 Pontiac G6 undergoes some midyear changes to help bolster flagging sales for this struggling automaker. The exterior gets a bit of new style, while the vehicle also receives a few other modifications, including a new audio system and a new model – a 4-cylinder coupe. The G6 is available as a sedan, a 2-door convertible and a 2-door coupe and is also available in several flavors, including the base trim, GT trim and GXP trim. As a note, convertibles are only available in GT trim, with no other options.
The G6 makes use of several differing engine options. For instance, the base sedan and coupe uses a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, putting out 164 hp, while the GT makes use of a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 219 hp. An optional engine is the 3.9-liter V6, which puts out 222 hp. A 4-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models, while a 6-speed automatic can be equipped on the V6 coupe, as well as on the sedan.
2009 Pontiac G6 Performance
For models with the V6, acceleration is no problem. The 4-cylinder engine is a bit weaker, though it still gets the vehicle off the mark in decent time. Convertibles are slower off the mark, mostly because they are considerably heavier than their hard-topped brethren. The GXP trim offers the best performance of all models, thanks to its larger engine. Fuel economy on the G6 ranges a bit, depending on the engine chosen. The V6 averages 22 mpg, while convertibles attain 20 mpg and the GXP version is able to average about 21 mpg with mostly highway driving.
When it comes to steering and handling, the G6 is a bit lacking at lower speeds. The steering feels over assisted and light, without the weighting necessary for a good feel. The GXP is the best handling version of the vehicle. Braking is a bit lackluster on all models, with a spongy feel to the pedal. Ride quality is moderate on all versions of the vehicle. While it doesn't approach the class leaders, the G6 is adequate from an American automaker when it comes to handling and ride quality. Most bumps are absorbed and the vehicle does not suffer from excessive body lean during turns.
Road and wind noise on the G6 are not dramatic disappointments, but they are present. The larger V6 engine produces quite a bit more noise than the smaller engine, though that is a tradeoff most drivers may be willing to make.
2009 Pontiac G6 Interior
The Pontiac G6 may offer freshened exterior styling, but the interior is still dominated by hard plastic and provides a very cheap feel. The construction is not as solid as it could be and many drivers complain about squeaks and rattles within the body panels. Overall, the vehicle receives low scores when it comes to interior quality.
For control and gauge layout, the G6 gets good marks. All gauges are illuminated well and laid out in a logical manner. Controls are within easy reach, including the HVAC and audio controls, ensuring that the driver can make needed adjustments without sacrificing their view of the road.
The front seats of the 2009 G6 provide more than ample headroom and legroom for anyone, as well as comfortable seats. However, the front seats do not offer the thigh and lumbar support needed for long distance driving and the deep cushioning may be a bit much for some drivers. The rear seats of the vehicle are adequate for shorter passengers, while taller passengers will find the headroom a bit lacking, due to the vehicle's roofline.
The cargo room is adequate, at best. The trunk is small and narrow, though the hinge design does not intrude into the available cargo space. The folding rear seats on coupes and sedans increase the amount of storage space in the trunk, while interior storage is also at a premium.
2009 Pontiac G6 Safety Features
Standard safety features on the G6 consist of daytime running lights, front side airbags, dual front airbags, side curtain airbags and 4-wheel antilock disc brakes. A few additional features are available as upgraded options, but overall the vehicle does not offer the same features as the class leaders, such as the Honda Accord or the Toyota Camry.
Summary
The 2009 Pontiac G6 might have been revamped a bit, but it still lags far behind other options on the market. However, that lag comes with a corresponding price cut, giving you access to a decent vehicle at a lower price than what Honda or Toyota are charging for their vehicles.