Pontiac G5 Review

2008 Pontiac G5 GT Coupe Shown

For better and worse, the Pontiac G5 coupe is a rather obvious example of "badge engineering." This term describes the situation where a manufacturer takes an existing vehicle from a related carmaker and makes a few minor changes to things like the grille design, headlights, taillights, interior materials and trim and then badges the vehicle under its own name. This is nothing new, of course, and not necessarily a bad thing either, provided the shared platform is rock-solid and fully competent.

Regrettably, that's not the case with the Pontiac G5, a twin of corporate cousin Chevy's compact Cobalt coupe. With its more stylish twin-port grille leading the way, the G5 is stuck with the same strengths and weaknesses. The good news is that the G5 achieves passing marks in performance, ride quality and crash test scores. But we suspect savvier shoppers in this class are more interested in overall quality, comfort and relative sophistication than simple boy-racer styling and feature content. Compared to some of its competitors, the G5 comes up short in terms of interior design and quality, handling dynamics and refinement.

Current Pontiac G5

There are two trim levels for the Pontiac G5 compact coupe: base and GT. The base model comes with a decent amount of equipment, including air-conditioning, powered accessories, keyless entry and a CD/MP3 audio system. The uplevel G5 GT adds equipment like a larger engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and cruise control. Additional options, such as a Pioneer audio system, satellite radio and leather upholstery, are also available.

A 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder powers the base G5 with 148 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque. G5 GTs are equipped with a more potent 2.4-liter inline-4 that makes 173 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. Notably, the 260-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter engine used in Chevy's Cobalt SS is not available on Pontiac's coupe. The standard transmission on both trim levels of the G5 is a five-speed manual, with a four-speed automatic available as an option.

Inside, attractive gauges and a full-featured stereo give the Pontiac G5 a contemporary feel, and metallic accents on the gear shifter, steering wheel and doors brighten the otherwise stark cabin of the GT. Both models feature a trip computer that provides useful information such as outside temperature, fuel range and coolant temperature. But even with the optional premium leather trim, our editors have found the seat design plain and lacking in comfort -- especially in back, where the bench is flat and low and the quarters cramped.

On the road, our editors note that either G5 engine provides ample power for just about any situation. Commuters will enjoy the Pontiac's smooth, quiet ride but will probably be less impressed with the car's handling and directional responsiveness when the road starts to bend. The base G5's suspension allows too much body roll, and the electric steering system on both models is slow, with minimal feedback. In terms of driving enjoyment and overall refinement, the Pontiac G5 ranks well behind class leaders like the Honda Civic, Mini Cooper, Scion tC and Volkswagen Rabbit.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.