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Acceleration
"No opportunity yet to test 4-cyl G6 or convertible. G6s with 201-hp V6 have
good acceleration from any speed, helped by smooth automatic transmission that
downshifts readily for impressive passing response. GTP coupe with 6-speed manual
doesn't leap off the line, but steadily builds power, answers throttle eagerly
at higher rpm. Manual-transmission shifter has positive engagement, but also
a scraping-metal feel during gear changes. "
Value
"G6 lacks the well-toned feel of a Honda Accord, the isolating comfort of a Toyota
Camry, or the ready-to-rock energy of a Nissan Altima. But it undercuts them
all on price, especially with a V6 engine. Frequent discounts and a wide selection
of safety and convenience features add to its appeal. The G6 coupe is too large
for the interior space it provides, making a sedan the wiser choice here. "
Ride
"Not as composed as Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, but compliant base suspension
readily absorbs most bumps with minimal bobbing, moderate tire slap. GT, GTP
only a bit stiffer, slightly better controlled, but not as unruffled as sporty
imports over high-speed dips, swells."
Economy
Test GT V6 averaged 19.5 mpg in even mix of city/highway driving. Test 6-speed GTP coupe averaged 19.1 with slightly more highway driving. Pontiac recommends regular-grade fuel for all engines.
Noise
"Suppression of road, wind noise not up to Accord/Camry standards, but acceptable.
Bumps caused slight knocking in front end of test sedans. Opened panoramic roof
generates less noise but more buffeting than regular sunroof. The 3.5 V6 noisier
at idle than most V6s, emits guttural whine under moderate-to-full acceleration.
The 3.9 V6 is quieter, more refined than the 3.5."
Comfort - Front
"Good head, leg room. Standard tilt/telescope steering, available adjustable
pedals enhance driving position. Seats--cloth and leather--softer than in many
rivals, and short on long-distance support. Testers divided on how well seat
side bolsters hold occupants in place during fast cornering. And some drivers
find bolster interferes with arm movement when shifting manual transmission.
Vision blocked astern by tall front headrests, to sides and front corners by
thick roof pillars. Kudos for sun-visor extenders. Long coupe doors a hassle
in tight spots."
Comfort - Rear
"Sedan or coupe, ample leg room, even with front seats well back. But sloping
roofline limits head room for those over 5-ft-10, especially in coupe. Available
panoramic roof steals head room, too, forcing taller passengers to scrunch uncomfortably.
Entry/exit easy in sedan, stoop-and-twist in coupe."
Controls
"Gauges clear, lit in red. Audio, climate controls easy to reach, use. Cabin
has abundance of padded surfaces, available 2-tone panels, bright or woodgrain
trim, creating a satisfying ambience at this price level."
Cargo Room
"Narrow trunk has small opening, tall liftover, but hinges don't intrude on cargo
space. Rear seatbacks unlatch from trunk, fold almost flat, have hard plastic
backs. Adequate interior storage. Note that convertible trunk volume shrinks
to 1.8 cu ft with top down, from just 5.8 cu ft top up. "
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