- 2009
2008 Pontiac G5
- Used Pontiac G5
Performance - What the Auto Press Says
Test drivers find that both the base model and the GT provide adequate acceleration with a peppy yet quiet ride. The G5's handling, however, isn't considered sporty.
Acceleration and Power
Under the hood the 2008 Pontiac G5's base model has a 2.2-liter inline four cylinder engine with 148 horse power and 152 pound-feet of torque. Standard for the GT version is a 2.4-liter variable valve timing DOHC four-cylinder engine with 173 horsepower and 163 pound feet of torque. The power is one of things reviewers like best when driving the 2008 Pontiac G5. Kelley Blue Book finds with the acceleration that "even with the base engine and automatic, the frisky G5 responds enthusiastically to the gas pedal." Edmunds says the engine "provides ample power for just about any situation."
When driving the G5 with an automatic transmission, the Environmental Protection Agency rates the G5 at 22 miles per gallon city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. Using a manual the EPA rates the Pontiac G5 at 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway.
Both models have a five-speed manual transmission that includes a 3.84 axle ratio, but drivers have the option for a four-speed automatic transmission. Car and Driver, however, is one to call driving the GT with the automatic transmission "a marriage headed directly to divorce court."
Handling and Braking
Reviewers are less impressed with the G5 base model's handling, provided by electric power steering and a touring suspension. New Car Test Drive writes for many that the base's steering is "somewhat heavy and the effort increases during turns." Meanwhile, Auto Media and Kelley Blue Book both complain that the going gets tough on rougher pavement
The writers think the GT's sport-tuned suspension offers an improvement. "The GT version gets stiffer suspension tuning than the base car, giving it a more sporty ride and better handling," About.com shares, and Autobytel agrees, saying the steering provides good road feel, as well as "a controlled suspension setup that serves to balances sport and comfort, allowing for some roll and understeer but not too much."
The base coupe has four disc rear drum with an option for anti-lock, while the GT already has an anti-lock braking system and four-wheel discs. Both trims can stop on a dime. New Car Test Drive weighs in on the base trim's version, writing, "Pontiac did a great job on the feel of the brakes. The pedal was firm but it was easy to slow either a little or a lot." The reviewer adds that the G5 "didn't dip too much under hard braking."
