2008 Pontiac G6 [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 48 G6 reviews and test drives.
Pontiac G6 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Pontiac G6 ranks 22 out of 25 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 48 published reviews and test drives of the Pontiac G6, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The G6 delivers style and good passenger space, but ranks near the bottom of our list because it falls short of midsize car competitors in overall refinement. Engine power is lacking in all but the premium-priced GXP model.
The 2008 Pontiac G6 is a middle-of-the-road midsize car that has a few good points -- handling, exterior styling and cabin space -- but no one exceptional feature to distinguish it from competitors in its crowded class. Notably, the G6's higher trims are generally well-received for performance and safety, but the base level trims lack the quality or power to effectively compete with top-class cars.
But the G6 sedan, which is available in four trims, does offer the distinction of a two-door convertible and coupe model. If you're interested in other affordable midsize sedans with coupe trims, consider the Honda Accord, or the Toyota Camry.
- "The Pontiac G6 is a respectable and roomy four-door, and could even be called entertaining at times, but GM has a ways to go before people who love the journey as much as the destination clamber from behind the G6's wheel and proclaim it to be a fun car to any and all who will listen." -- Autobytel
- "Despite its good looks, the G6 still trails in refinement and perceived quality, finishing last in a five-car comparison test where we most liked the Volkswagen Jetta GLI and Honda Accord." -- Car and Driver
- "The G6 is less impressive when stacked against the two bestsellers among midsize sedans - the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord." -- Newsday
- "G6 fails to connect, coming across as just an average car with little to make it stand out." -- Arizona Republic
- "As it sits, the G6 is a car with many good pieces that don't quite realize their potential as a whole." -- Road and Track
G6 Performance - 6.3 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Pontiac G6's handling gets generally positive reviews. However, with the exception of the top-of-the-line V6 engines, its power is lacking, contributing to a low performance score. However, the V6 engines also take a ding for fuel economy. Our full Performance Review gives a more in-depth view of the G6's performance, and how it stacks up the affordable midsize car class. continue
G6 Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
In the typically bland class of affordable midsize cars, the Pontiac G6's sporty, stylish look gets good reviews and a good score. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman writes, "Crisp lines and a taut stance give the G6 some panache in one of the auto industry's most sedate markets." Check out the Pontiac G6 Photo Gallery to see the car's sporty lines in red, or read the full Exterior Review for particulars on the G6 design. continue
G6 Interior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Reviewers like the spaciousness and simplicity of the 2008 G6's interior but don't find it particularly luxurious. "On the one hand, the amount of sheer space is amazing," says Road and Track, before ultimately deciding, "As a whole the interior is uninspiring." Similar complaints lead to the G6's middling interior score. The Pontiac G6 Photo Gallery offers images of the G6 dashboard, trunk space and seat upholstery, while our full Interior Review gives additional information on the features' quality and ease-of-use. continue
G6 Safety - 8.7 (Very Good)
The 2008 Pontiac G6 is best equipped for safety at its higher trim levels. For the base models, many reviews say safety features are a mixed bag. Still the sedan performs well in both government and insurance industry crash tests. Our full Safety Review gives more information on the G6's active and passive safety systems. continue
G6 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Pontiac G6 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 G6 is backed by GM's three-year/ 36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review for more on Pontiac's reputation. continue
