All convertible G6 models get 4-channel ABS equipped 4-wheel disc brakes. Safety in mind, GT and GTP models can be
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| GM has made the decision to outfit all G6 convertible models with 18-inch wheels and tires. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
purchased with an enhanced traction control system, while Pontiac's Dynamic Vehicle Control System is optional with the GTP. Seventeen-inch alloy rims come standard on GT and GTP models, while 18-inch wheels and lower-profile performance tires are available. What's more, GM has made the decision to outfit all G6 convertible models with 18-inch wheels and tires. While this will improve performance, not all buyers appreciate the firmer ride associated with low-profile sporting tires and replacements can be costly.
But then again, GM is positioning Pontiac towards sport-oriented drivers, much more so than in previous generations, while other brands under its umbrella will offer more comfortable, luxury-biased coupes and convertibles.
While
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| While targeting those who like to drive, the new G6 convertible won't forget to pamper its occupants. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
targeting those who like to drive, the new G6 convertible won'tforget to pamper its occupants. The expected power windows and locks will be standard, as will remote keyless entry. When climbing inside pay heed to the indexing door window glass, which pops 6 mm (0.25 inches) downward when opening and then slides back up into place when the door is fully shut, sealing out exterior noise, odors and climate.
A premium audio system will also be part of the package, with a dash-mounted 6CD changer and available XM satellite radio. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and "highly-bolstered" sports seats are also included.
Of course, leather will be offered, as will heated seat cushions. OnStar, however, is
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| The convertible offers easy rear-seat entry, thanks mostly to the extra long wheelbase as well as doors that are 152.4 mm (6 inches) longer than the G6 sedan's front doors. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
strangely unavailable in the convertible but offered with the coupe - go figure. Remote start can be had in either configuration, allowing those in hot or cold climes to cool down or warm up the car prior to getting inside. While this feature is convenient, environmental groups have raised concerns about the negative impact such devices contribute to air quality.
The convertible is also noted for offering easy rear-seat entry, thanks mostly to the previously mentioned extra long wheelbase as well as doors that are 152.4 mm (6 inches) longer than the G6 sedan's front doors, and on average about 50 to 75 mm (2 to 3 inches) longer than doors on most rival drop-tops. The doors also integrate counterweights which make them feel light and easy to manage. Of course, longer doors may mean that
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| Pontiac says that headroom is also comparable to the G6 sedan, impressive considering the convertible's racy roofline. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
trying to climb out when parked in a tight space beside another car becomes more of a challenge than on the G6 sedan, for instance, but this problem is par for the course with two-door models.
Rear seat passengers should find room enough to get comfortable, with about 889 mm (35 inches) of rear legroom, which is about an inch and a half shorter than the extremely accommodating G6 sedan. Pontiac says that headroom is also comparable to the G6 sedan, impressive considering the convertible's racy roofline. That raked roofline differs whether inside a coupe or convertible, especially noticeable in the rear quarter window and C-pillar. The coupe features a kink, similar to that of a BMW, while the convertible quarter glass and C-pillar meet at a point. Both designs are attractive, and completely unique to the shape offered by the sedan, which only shares the same body panels ahead of the A-pillars, by the way.
