2006 PONTIAC G6 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2006 Pontiac G6?
Pontiac introduced the G6 last year as an all-new vehicle, and the company has made additional improvements to the vehicle for 2006. The biggest change is that there are now two additional body styles joining the original sedan. A two-door coupe debuts in late 2005 and a two-door convertible will arrive later on in 2006. Interestingly, the convertible's top is actually a retractable hardtop. Normally found on more upscale vehicles, a retractable hardtop provides additional security and refinement over a regular soft-top. The G6's convertible top is a two-piece clamshell design, and it drops cleanly into the trunk when lowered. Both the convertible and coupe seat four people. These new body styles also introduce a new performance-oriented GTP trim level that includes a 240-horsepower V6, an available six-speed manual transmission, 18-inch wheels, and standard stability control. For shoppers on a more restricted budget, there's a new four-cylinder G6 sedan. Additional changes for 2006 include a standard power driver’s seat, a new front-passenger detection system for airbag deployment and a new three-spoke steering wheel design.

Advantages of the 2006 Pontiac G6:

• Three different body styles to choose from
• Roomy interior
• Interesting features like the sedan's panoramic sunroof
• Comfortable front seats

Objections to the 2006 Pontiac G6:

• Electric steering offers little feel for the road
• Lack of attention to details
• Unrefined suspension
• Nose-heavy handling

Editor's Advice:
Over the years, we've scoffed at Pontiac's use of thickly ribbed body cladding, funky design and low-rent interior materials. The G6 is a big step away from that plasticky past. The sedan is practical and roomy while the new convertible and coupe, in GTP trim anyway, fulfill Pontiac's promise of driving excitement. Compared against stalwarts like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry or impressive newcomers like the Hyundai Sonata, the G6 is lacking a bit in areas like ride quality and interior refinement. But enough of the pieces are in place, and interested shoppers should certainly make a point to visit a Pontiac dealership.