New Car Review of the 2005 Pontiac G6 Mid-Size Sedan

Description: Mid-Size Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $20,675 - $23,300
Invoice Price Range: $18,918 - $21,320
Where built: USA

Pontiac's new mid-size sedan, cast on a long-wheelbase front-wheel-drive (FWD) platform which also supports Chevrolet's Malibu and the 9-3 of Saab, looks sleek but athletic on a taut package with brief overhangs and wheels pushed out to the corners.

The prow, with Pontiac's signature twin-port grille, shows chrome accents and reflective-optic headlamps plus projector-beam foglamps with clear lenses.

A spacious five-seat cabin in G6 brings a driver-oriented cockpit with bolstered bucket seats in front of a split bench that folds for flexibility when arranging riders and gear. And an optional Panoramic roof with four sliding glass panels opens the top practically like a convertible.

Two trims -- base G6 and G6 GT -- draw from a new 3.5-liter V6 with 200-hp through a 4-speed automatic Hydra-Matic 4T45-E transaxle that adds a manual shift mode on GT.

Mechanical assets include four-wheel independent suspension with sport tuning, electric power steering and heavy-duty disc brakes with anti-lock brake system (ABS), plus the option of a traction control system (TCS) for G6 GT. Side-impact air bags for front seats and curtain-style side air bags are also available, along with adjustable pedals and XM satellite radio service.