| The Pontiac G6 models are attractive cars.
They have the smooth styling of the latest-generation Pontiacs, sharing cues with the Solstice roadster and other models and sort of a Lexus/Toyota look from the rear.
The G6 offers clean, uncluttered lines that are quite pleasing.
For 2009, base and GT models got new front fascias.
The traditional Pontiac twin upper grille nostrils are now larger, with sharper corners.
The broad lower grille with its narrow center divider is gone completely, replaced by a large trapezoidal opening in the center, flanked by a pair of oblong scoops that sweep up at their outboard edges.
All three openings are defined by a box-section welt that rises from under the center opening and flows out over the side openings, suggesting the pointy end of a Texas longhorn (or the front bumper of a Tucker, if you remember back that far).
In all, the look is sharper, more aggressive than before, and more like that of the high-performance GXP (which remains unchanged).
Additional new creases in the sedan's rear bumper provide more definition, while echoing the new look up front.
The coupe and convertible remain unchanged at the rear.
Base and GT buyers can choose a clean-flanked look, or an optional ($100) body-color spear running the length of the doors.
Deck-lid spoiler options range from none to a nicely integrated raised lip to the aptly named hammerhead, whose (theoretically functional) side pods resemble the face of its deep-sea namesake.
The restyled GT and unchanged GXP now look more alike than before, although the GXP retains its unique front fascia, with more vertical upper nostrils filled with a grille texture that resembles braided stainless steel.
The three lower openings are similar in shape to those on the new base and GT, but without the steer-horn molding, and all three are smaller, leaving room for the more prominent upper grille and for separate round foglight nacelles at the sides.
The center opening is black while the side openings share the braided-stainless theme.
The coupe and convertible inject more excitement into the styling.
The frameless windows are indexed, meaning that they automatically open 0.25 inch when the doors are opened, and close again when the door is closed for a tight seal.
From the rear, the coupe and convertible feature narrow taillights and a sloping decklid.
The Pontiac G6 is built in Michigan, from parts and ideas used on the Saab 9-3, Opel Vectra, and Chevrolet Malibu. |