2006 Pontiac G6
I’m typically not a fan of Detroit iron, but I have to admit that they are getting a little better. Particularly Chrysler now that they get some German influence. But were talking Chevys here…
I drove the newly released G6 for several days in the mid Atlantic states of Virginia and North Carolina, a lot of highway driving and a decent amount of city and back-road driving. Much like my impression of the Monte Carlo, GM is making headway in my opinion of them. The exterior styling is improved, but reminds me too much of the grand-am which just carries along emotional baggage I guess.
Interior styling is nice. I particularly liked the choices of seating fabric. A weave pattern is used in the center panels and takes on the look of perforated leather without being obvious synthetic leather. We will have to see if it stands the test of time like the interior of our 230,000 mile Honda Civic (no rips, pulls, or holes). The dash is again sleek and stylish and incorporates a similar sound system designed by Monsoon as used in our Volkswagens. Interior noise levels were low at all speeds. Ergonomics were not bad but still needed some work, specifically the elbow rest locations.
Handling was firm, but not quite as sporty as the Monte Carlo, but good for a daily driver. Body roll was a little more pronounced but still quite better than the Buick LaCrosse. Fuel economy was better than the Monte Carlo at about 25MPG highway but not nearly as good as the much larger Passat Wagon 1.8T that gets 27-30mpg on average. Detroit really needs to do some work in this department.
Overall I give this car a B-. Again, theres still room to go on interior style and ergonomics as well as fuel economy. The exterior styling is too close to the Grand Am to make me feel it’s a different car.