If you want a four-place front-drive convertible with a retractable hard top for a modest price, this G6 is the car to beat. It also boasts a sporty suspension and racy looks. But if you want the refinement of a Honda Accord or a Toyota Camry, look elsewhere. Interior plastics are cheap, and the steering is numb (an issue that was fixed in the Value Leader sedan with hydraulic power assist), but the seats are well-shaped and supportive. A panoramic sunroof adds to the already spacious rear-seat room.
The G6 is based on the lengthened version of GM's Epsilon platform, used by a variety of General Motors and other automakers' vehicles. It debuted as a sedan in 2005, followed by a coupe and a retractable-hardtop convertible. It was sold in three trim levels, with the GT and GTP (which became the GXP in '08) offering more features.
A four-speed automatic transmission is standard, and the V6 delivers a spirited, satisfying acceleration. Fuel economy is a respectable 33 mpg on the highway. The hardtop convertible is commendably quiet with the top up -- a prime raison d'être for these cars -- and wind buffeting feels fairly minimal at freeway speeds, although there's some cowl shake. To reduce swirl inside the cabin, you can install a wind blocker that looks like something from seining catfish and is a little flimsy, but it does the job. With the top down, however, conversation can be carried on without shouting, but wind noise and road noise become quite noticeable.
