2007 Pontiac G6 Convertible

Like the face that launched a thousand ships, the Pontiac G6 was the Helen of all TV giveaways. It was less than two years ago when Oprah Winfrey surprised her audience by giving each member a new G6. The stunt instantly propelled GM’s new sedan and coupe into the spotlight. Now it’s time for a curtain call with new G6 convertible. And this G6 is not just another ragtop. 

In fact, the 2007 Pontiac G6 Convertible is not a ragtop at all. Its retractable roof is as solid as it gets. That’s right; the roof over this sunny disposition is a same kind of true four-season steel-topper that once was limited to premium priced speedsters.

At the touch of a switch, the Karmann-engineered two-piece clamshell powered top, fully transforms from coupe to convertible in about 30 seconds. All hiding neatly under three sometimes fussy plastic tonneau panels, and a rearward hinged solid deck lid.

Top down, there is a definite resemblance to the Saab 9-3 Cabrio. Not surprising since both cars share the GM’s advanced Epsilon platform.  The G6 boasts a longer wheelbase than the Saab, 112.3 inches. But with an overall length of only 189 inches it retains a taut, bullet-like profile.

When top up driving is more appropriate, the G6’s smooth roofline gives it a pure-coupe sleek and sporty look.  That sweeping fastback, standard five spoke 18-inch aluminum wheels, and a down-sloped nose, with the brand’s signature twin-grille’s, are all present to deliver the notion of total performance.

Behind that fascia you’ll find a choice of two pushrod V6’s.  Standard is a 3.5-liter with 217-horsepower and 217 pound-feet of torque. Adding the Sport Package to the lone GT trim level garners a 3.9-liter with 227-horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. The twin-cam 3.6-liter V6 destine for the G6 coupe and sedan will not be available in the convertible for 2007.

Front-wheel drive power is governed by a standard traction control, and a 4-speed automatic with a manual-mode performance shift gate.

But true performance is always in the numbers.  Our computer timed 0 to 60 sprints at an underwhelming 8.4 seconds.  With the hardtop convertible adding nearly 500 pounds, there is a notable lack of urgency off the line.  The quarter mile was trapped in 16.4 seconds at 86 miles per hour. Still, convertibles are more about cruising than speed.

And cruising in the G6 Convertible is pretty smooth and very relaxed thanks to a four-wheel independent suspension. There are struts up front, and isolated multi-links in the rear. With ample structural reinforcement, cowl shake is modest.

Even with the extra weight, our G6 Convertible proved quite responsive and nimble in the twisties, even more so with the solid top in place. At the same time, understeer and body roll rise just as quickly when you push too hard.

Braking is by way of all-disc brakes and standard ABS. We measured a competent 60 to 0 average of 129 feet.  Stops were fade free with little drama. Climbing inside, you quickly realize that this G6 is a true four-place convertible, a rare find indeed.

Like the sedan and coupe, the well-equipped, semi-serious cockpit puts a lot of focus on the driver.  Standards include tilt/telescopic wheel, air-conditioning, power windows, locks, and mirrors, CD sound and OnStar. Options worth considering are front side impact airbags, remote start, heated, leather seating and CD-changer.     

With its signature Pontiac wide-track stance, the backseat provides generous shoulder room and more than expected legroom. Two adults can comfortably spend hours back here.  The also useful trunk provides a boxy 12.6 cubic feet of space when the top is up.  Down, you’re left with just 2.2.  So you’d better pack light!!

As for fuel economy, the open top G6 - 3.9 isn’t quite as stingy.  Try 18 city/24 highway.  We reeled in 20 on our mixed loop using regular grade gas. Not bad for a sporty drop-top.

Pricing for the G6 GT Convertible is worth a double-take. At $29,150, with freight, Pontiac brings the highly sought after retractable hardtop within affordable reach. The Sport Package adds $1,490 more. Only the smaller Volkswagen Eos stickers for less, and that by only about $500.

So what’s our take? Well the 2007 Pontiac G6 Convertible is one of the most appealing convertibles to come along in some time. And, combined with the Solstice, gives GM’s performance division a very sunny duet.

A true four-place convertible, with a four-season retractable hardtop, for under 30K? Throw out a line—cuz’ with the Pontiac G6 Convertible—you’ve got a live one!