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2005 Pontiac G6 Preview

Is This the Import Fighter GM Needs?

The Pontiac G6, the latest car to debut on General Motors worldwide Epsilon architecture, is also the long-due successor to the aged Grand Am. With that said, it features its own unique engineering elements to set it apart from the Chevrolet Malibu, Saturn L-series and Saab 9-3 that share major structural components.

Unlike these three models, the G6 takes advantage of the stretched chassis featured under the Malibu Maxx. It features a 112.3 inch wheelbase compared to the standard Epsilons 106.3 inches. High-grade steel has been utilized throughout the monocoque frame to ensure chassis rigidity, while a magnesium crossbar, located between the A-pillars, will provide extra strength in the occurrence of

The successor to the aged Grand Am, the Pontiac G6, is the latest car to debut on General Motors worldwide Epsilon architecture. (Photo: General Motors)

a side collision.

Surprisingly, the biggest modification to the G6 comes in the form of its suspension. While it uses struts up front, mounted on a hydroformed subframe, Pontiac will utilize a multi-link independent suspension with four links in back.

Other areas of interest are the new Pontiacs steering, braking and traction capabilities. Rather than using an old-fashioned hydraulic-assist unit,

The biggest modification to the G6 comes in the form of its suspension. (Photo: General Motors)

the G6 gets state-of-the-art electric power steering with variable assist. Its a "typical" electric system, reducing power consumption and weight, but its varying ability allows fingertip light turning at low speeds while remaining firm and accurate at higher speeds. But as advanced as the system seems on paper, I wonder if the G6s electric power steering will be able to overcome a technology that many have reported to be artificial in feel.

The new Pontiacs large, powerful brakes should also impress drivers who really like to drive. Heavy-duty discs

The G6 features a traction control system that works hand in hand with GMs Vehicle Dynamic Control System. (Photo: General Motors)

and calipers work with ABS to reduce pedal pulsation and fade and improve feel, or so GM states.

Finally, the G6 features a traction control system that works hand in hand with GMs Vehicle Dynamic Control System to help keep the car under control no matter what situation may be at hand. Of course, if worse comes to worse, theres the rigid frame and a full set of airbags to protect front and rear occupants.

Pontiac will offer three engine choices when the G6 goes on sale, four-cylinder and two powerful V6s. Standard models will get a 170 horsepower 2.4-liter Ecotec with 170 lb-ft of torque. This is the world-class

The GT model will receive a 3.5-liter pushrod V6 that yields 200-hp and an impressive 220 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: General Motors)

unit that will come in Chevrolets new Cobalt when it arrives. The only transmission available with this engine will be the HydraMatic 4-speed auto.

The middle of the range GT model will receive a 3.5-liter pushrod V6 that yields 200 horsepower and an impressive 220 lb-ft of torque - an engine thats got a relatively lengthy history as an upgraded variant of GMs 3400 workhorse. It too will only be available with a four-speed auto. The top of the line performance GTP model will be the most powerful of all, sporting an all-new naturally aspirated 3.9-liter V6 with 240 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. Its the first vehicle to receive this new engine that boasts GMs DoD (Displacement on Demand) cylinder deactivation system,

Compared to the new Malibu, the G6, with its clean and strong design, is stunning. (Photo: General Motors)

as well as variable valve timing and variable intake manifold. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual and a four-speed automatic with manual mode. Performance ratings have not been disclosed as of yet.

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