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Pros :
| + |
Lots of standard equipment |
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Frontal crash-test ratings |
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Little road noise |
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Comfortable ride |
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Attractive, if basic, interior |
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Responsive automatic | Cons :
| Looks almost exactly like the Chevrolet Cobalt |
| - |
Backseat space and entry/exit |
| - |
Seat comfort |
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Noisy engine exhaust |
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Some cheap-looking controls |
Review :
New for 2007, the Pontiac G5 coupe is virtually identical to the Chevrolet Cobalt, which has been around since 2005. Pontiac sells the Pursuit in Canada, which is essentially the same car as the Cobalt and G5.
The G5 comes in two trim levels, base and GT. Engines include a 2.2-liter inline-four-cylinder that makes 148 horsepower in the base model, and a 2.4-liter inline-four-cylinder that generates 173 hp in the G5 GT. The 205-hp supercharged engine in the Cobalt SS is not available in the G5.
The G5 has more standard equipment than its Chevrolet sibling — power windows and remote entry are installed on base GTs but are optional in the Cobalt — but it also costs significantly more.
A double-cutout Pontiac grille differentiates the G5 from its platform-mates, but beyond that the differences are scant. A rear spoiler is standard, as are steel wheels. GT models upgrade to 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps and a sport-tuned suspension, though all G5s ride on a semi-independent rear setup rather than the fully independent rear some competitors have.
The G5's interior has a familiar look, with radio controls and other switches mounted on a vertical center stack. A three-spoke steering wheel sits ahead of chrome-ringed instrument pods.
Standard equipment includes power windows and locks, as well as remote keyless entry, air conditioning and a CD stereo with an auxiliary input for iPods or other MP3 players. Upgrading to the G5 GT nets a leather steering wheel with audio controls; additional options include heated leather seats, remote vehicle start, a moonroof and a 228-watt, seven-speaker stereo.
The G5's standard engine is General Motors' tried-and-true Ecotec inline-four-cylinder. It displaces 2.2 liters and generates 148 hp and 152 pounds-feet of torque. GT models upgrade to a 2.4-liter engine with variable valve timing, boosting output to 173 hp and 163 pounds-feet of torque.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard on both models, and a four-speed automatic is optional.
Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard on the GT. Disc/drum brakes with optional ABS come with the base G5. Side curtain airbags are optional across the line.
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