Why give up fun driving for fuel economy when the Pontiac G5 delivers both? Here’s a compact car that gives buyers a lot of reasons to choose it. The G5 combines a sporty look with most-wanted features and fuel economy that leads its class.
The 2009 Pontiac G5 trims include coupe, GT coupe and XFE (Xtra Fuel Economy) trim. While all models offer very impressive fuel-efficiency numbers, it’s the XFE that takes the cake. With a five-speed manual, 3.63 final drive ratio and 15-inch low rolling-resistance tires, the XFE delivers best-in-class fuel economy EPA-estimated at 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Not a hybrid, not a diesel, just a thoroughly modern gasoline engine. A tiny exterior badge marks the XFE version.
The 2009 Pontiac G5 offers a sporty front air dam and 15-inch steel wheels; 16-inchers are optional on the coupe with 17-inchers standard on the GT. G5’s 2.2-liter ECOTEC inline four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) produces an impressive 155 hp and 150 lb/ft of torque – more powerful than the Honda Civic coupe and Ford Focus coupe.
The G5 coupe comes standard with air conditioning, full power accessories, split-folding rear seats, keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 capability and an auxiliary audio jack, and, of course, OnStar. The Sun and Sound Package, optional, includes an upgraded seven-speaker Pioneer audio system and a tilt and sliding sunroof.
Bump up a notch to the GT coupe and get the full sports treatment with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, sport rocker moldings, a sport-tuned suspension system, foglamps, cruise control and Bluetooth capability. Steering wheel-mounted controls for audio components, including a Pioneer premium sound system (with amplified tweeters and rear sub-woofer) and cruise control allow fingertip control and less stressful driving. Other extras with the MY LINK Package include antilock brakes, chrome exhaust and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Add such options as USB audio input and heated leather front seats to your GT to complete the package.
Urban drivers will love the compactness of the G5’s 179.8-inch overall length, which makes it a breeze to fit into those tight city parking spaces. Its 103.5-inch wheelbase and a turning radius of 33.5 feet make it ideal for the daily commuter. The G5’s exterior displays a tastefully understated and simple design that gives the feel of a true sports coupe. Its rakish wedge shape and rear deck spoiler make it a head-turner on the highway.
Inside, white-faced gauges are not only good-looking, but also easy to read, and the trip computer provides useful information such as outside temperature, fuel range and consumption. Ample front legroom and seating for five does not detract from that sportscar feel. For road trips, G5’s 13.9 cubic foot luggage area offers plenty of room.
While it may be stingy on fuel, there is no skimping on the safety features. Full-length side-curtain airbags are standard, along with a tire pressure monitoring system and a passenger-sensing system to improve front airbag deployment. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes and Pontiac’s StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system are standard on the GT model.
All in all, the Pontiac G5 offers standard amenities and options for the individual and the family with best-in-class fuel economy, a smooth quiet ride and enough power for the commuter. Pontiac delivers the best of both worlds, and exceptional affordability with an MSRP starting at $16,980.
