2006 Pontiac G6 in Belvidere, IL - $4,395

Based on GM's global Epsilon platform architecture, the G6 sedan is Pontiac’s most versatile four-door model. Additions to the standard equipment roster this year include: front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, OnStar communications system, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control and auxiliary audio input jack. GT adds XM Satellite radio.

Available in Base and GT trim levels, power for the Pontiac sedan is generated by a 2.4L four-cylinder or 3.5L V6. Torque is communicated to the pavement through a Hydra-Matic electronically-controlled 4T45 or 4T65 four-speed automatic transmission. A manual gearbox is no longer offered.

Also new this year is the GXP. Replacing last year’s GTP, the new model includes the following upgrades and enhancements: 3.6L V6 engine with variable valve timing, Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, performance-tuned suspension, 18-inch aluminum alloy five-spoke wheels, StabiliTrak vehicle stability system, leather seating, modified front and rear fascias, unique rocker panels, body-color mirror caps and dual chrome exhaust tips.

On the road, the G6 sedan equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine is smooth, nimble and responsive. Always willing, this V6 moves the sedan down the road with authority when the driver drops his right foot.

The structural integrity of the G6 starts with a steel safety cage with single-piece side panels and octagonal frame rails to surround passengers in a rigid cocoon. The hydroformed full-perimeter steel engine cradle ties into the reinforced rocker panels to yield in a controlled manner, directing the engine and transmission away from the passenger compartment in the event of a frontal impact.

Control hardware consists of a four-wheel independent suspension that features a MacPherson strut design upfront with aluminum lower control arms and a direct action stabilizer bar. This hardware is mounted to a U-shaped hydroformed chassis cradle that is isolated from the body with four specially tuned rubber mounts. In the rear, a four-link suspension system employs twin-tube shocks and like the front, a direct acting stabilizer bar. Variable-assist electric power steering is standard.

Inside the cabin is engaging -- a driver-oriented interior with sporty, refined controls and instrument layout. Other touches include a tilt and telescoping steering column, available adjustable pedals, highly bolstered, body-hugging seats, automatic climate control, racing style gauges with true-red LED instrument backlighting and a premium sound system with in-dash CD changer.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 112.3; overall length: 189.0; width: 70.6; height: 57.1 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder -- 164 hp at 6,400 rpm and 156 lbs-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm; 3.5L V6 -- 219 hp at 5,900 rpm and 219 lbs-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm; 3.6L V6 â€"- 252 hp at 6,300 rpm and 251 lbs-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed automatic, six-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 2.4L four-cylinder -â€" 22 city/30 hwy; 3.5L V6 -â€" 20 city/28 hwy; 3.6L V6 -â€" 20 city/28 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 14.0 cu. ft.

Parts content -â€" country of origin

Final assembly point: Lake Orion, Mich.

US/Canada: 80 percent.

Engine and transmission: USA.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, front/rear head curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, OnStar communications system, automatic power door locks, automatic headlamp control, remote keyless entry, daytime running lights and traction control. GT adds fog lights. GXP adds StabiliTrak vehicle stability control system.

Optional safety features include remote engine start and power adjustable pedals.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Pontiac G6 sedan starts from $17,845 for the Value Leader up to $26,145 for the GXP. Destination charges add $650.

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