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Pontiac G6 Convertible Highlights
Pontiac enthusiasts have been deeply disappointed ever since their brand was cast aside, part of parent GM's decision to reduce its makes from eight to four. While Saab and Hummer will find new life elsewhere, Pontiac and Saturn are going the way of Oldsmobile and will eventually become a footnote in automotive history.
Pontiac's changing fortune is shocking considering how strong a seller the brand once was. Even during its final year of existence, 2009, Pontiac outsold most of the other GM brands, trailing Chevrolet and GMC only. But, in their wisdom GM management decided that Pontiac would go while Buick, a lousy seller in the US, but a favorite in China would continue.
Pontiac High
As GM closes down Pontiac, the brand is going out on a high note. The Australian built Pontiac G8 (Holden Commodore) is the best sedan built by GM after the Cadillac CTS while the Pontiac Solstice proved that a sexy roadster was possible with or without the optional targa top.
But the Pontiac G6 found its on place in Pontiac lore, particularly the Pontiac G6 convertible. That model was built on the same platform powering the Chevrolet Malibu, one of the more capable front wheel drive cars built by GM today. Introduced in 2004 to replace the Grand Am, the G6 averaged 150,000 units sold annually from 2006-2008 with three body styles offered: coupe, sedan and the aforementioned convertible.
Hardtop Roof
The Pontiac G6 convertible came equipped with a retractable hardtop roof. GT and GTP trim packages were the choices which meant that either a 3.5L or 3.9L V6 was offered. While some models offered a manual transmission paired with the engines, the convertible was only available with a four-speed automatic. Later, a six-speed automatic became standard.
Style-wise, the G6 was a marked improvement over the smaller, bland Grand Am. That distinction served the G6 well as it was prized for its looks, performance, and competitive price. Seating five passengers in sedan form or four passengers as a coupe or convertible, the G6 carved out a niche in the crowded midsize car segment.
All G6 models benefited from traction control and anti-lock brakes in addition to side impact airbags. Stability control was optional. The base engine returned 217 hp and 217 lb-ft torque while the larger V6 produced 222 hp and 238 lb-ft torque. Given the small difference between the two, the 3.5L was the better deal while offering slightly better fuel economy.
Room Aplenty
One of the most surprising features of the Pontiac G6 convertible was the very good amount of room offered for all four passengers. Unlike most two door configurations, this car made it easy entering and leaving the back seat with plenty of head, shoulder, and hip room for all.
Overall, the Pontiac G6 convertible and its model mates performed quite well and are likely to retain their value down through the years. And, thanks to its retractable hardtop roof, we can see the convertible becoming a collector's items, a much sought after Pontiac some ten to twenty years out.
Pontiac's changing fortune is shocking considering how strong a seller the brand once was. Even during its final year of existence, 2009, Pontiac outsold most of the other GM brands, trailing Chevrolet and GMC only. But, in their wisdom GM management decided that Pontiac would go while Buick, a lousy seller in the US, but a favorite in China would continue.
Pontiac High
As GM closes down Pontiac, the brand is going out on a high note. The Australian built Pontiac G8 (Holden Commodore) is the best sedan built by GM after the Cadillac CTS while the Pontiac Solstice proved that a sexy roadster was possible with or without the optional targa top.
But the Pontiac G6 found its on place in Pontiac lore, particularly the Pontiac G6 convertible. That model was built on the same platform powering the Chevrolet Malibu, one of the more capable front wheel drive cars built by GM today. Introduced in 2004 to replace the Grand Am, the G6 averaged 150,000 units sold annually from 2006-2008 with three body styles offered: coupe, sedan and the aforementioned convertible.
Hardtop Roof
The Pontiac G6 convertible came equipped with a retractable hardtop roof. GT and GTP trim packages were the choices which meant that either a 3.5L or 3.9L V6 was offered. While some models offered a manual transmission paired with the engines, the convertible was only available with a four-speed automatic. Later, a six-speed automatic became standard.
Style-wise, the G6 was a marked improvement over the smaller, bland Grand Am. That distinction served the G6 well as it was prized for its looks, performance, and competitive price. Seating five passengers in sedan form or four passengers as a coupe or convertible, the G6 carved out a niche in the crowded midsize car segment.
All G6 models benefited from traction control and anti-lock brakes in addition to side impact airbags. Stability control was optional. The base engine returned 217 hp and 217 lb-ft torque while the larger V6 produced 222 hp and 238 lb-ft torque. Given the small difference between the two, the 3.5L was the better deal while offering slightly better fuel economy.
Room Aplenty
One of the most surprising features of the Pontiac G6 convertible was the very good amount of room offered for all four passengers. Unlike most two door configurations, this car made it easy entering and leaving the back seat with plenty of head, shoulder, and hip room for all.
Overall, the Pontiac G6 convertible and its model mates performed quite well and are likely to retain their value down through the years. And, thanks to its retractable hardtop roof, we can see the convertible becoming a collector's items, a much sought after Pontiac some ten to twenty years out.
