Unlike the steering system the engine is a one-size-fits-all scenario, at least
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| All G6s will get GM's 3.5-liter V6 initially, featuring 200 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 220 lb-ft of torque at 3,800. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
for now. All G6s will get GM's 3.5-liter V6 initially, featuring 200 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 220 lb-ft of torque at 3,800. The engine has plenty of power for the relatively lightweight 1,533 to 1,555 kg (3,380 to 3,428 lb) sedan (depending on whether weighing a base or GT model), and should deliver good
fuel economy based on experience with the outgoing 3.4-liter unit. I wouldn't say the overhead valve, 2-valve per cylinder lump is as soul-stirring as some of its Japanese or European rivals, especially when it comes to its exhaust note, but it's a tried and true technology that should deliver reliable performance along with tire-spinning grunt. Just in case you're wooed by the G6's sexy styling and upmarket interior trim but don't necessarily need or even want all the power the V6 provides, don't concern yourself
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| Pontiac will offer the G6 in exclusive GTP trim, featuring a 240-hp 3.9-liter V6, by next spring. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
because a version of GM's slick 2.4-liter, 16-valve, DOHC Ecotec 4-cylinder will arrive next summer as a 2006 model. This less powerful G6 will no doubt drop its already competitive $24,670 sticker even further, making it an attractive alternative to an even larger market. But this raises a question. Will the 4-cylinder model be dubbed G4? We'll have to wait and see. At the other end of the spectrum Pontiac will offer the G6 in exclusive GTP trim by next spring. It will boast an all-new 3.9-liter V6 making upwards of 240 horsepower, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Now that's more like it Pontiac!
