Pontiac's versatile midsize G6 enters its fifth year of production, continuing to offer three body styles: sedan, coupe, and convertible. The 2009 model year brings no significant alterations, but the G6 did undergo a number of performance and cosmetic enhancements for 2007 and 2008. GM markets this model as a more sport-oriented alternative in the highly competitive midsize market, where familiar names like Camry, Accord, and Altima continue to dominate.

The G6 is set apart from competitors by its flexibility, offering buyers a number of engine, body style, and trim configurations. The V6-powered models offer plenty of pep, without too much of a compromise in fuel economy. Bold interior styling and a nimble sport-tuned suspension both back up the car's athletic intentions, but weak brakes and GM's awkward electric power-steering system take something away from overall performance.

G6 trim levels include the Base, GT, and GXP. The four-door sedan offers the greatest variety; it's available in all four trim levels. The coupe can be had in either GT or GXP form, while the convertible is GT only. Even the most modestly equipped G6 comes standard with air-conditioning, full power accessories, a split-folding rear seat, and a CD player with an auxiliary audio jack, as well as cruise control and remote keyless entry. The mid-level GT upgrades from a four-cylinder to a V6. It also gains a sport-tuned suspension, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, and an eight-speaker Monsoon sound system and satellite radio. The performance-oriented GPX receives exclusive standard features like 18-inch chromed wheels, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a six-way power driver's seat, and heated front seats.

The G6 is available with a number of power plant options, depending on the trim and body style selected. Base sedans are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which generates 164 horsepower and 158 pound-feet of torque. The GTs, for all three body styles, upgrade to a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 219 horses and 219 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.

GXP models house a slightly larger 3.6-liter V6, bumping horsepower to 252 and torque to 251 pound-feet. It's mated to a six-speed automatic with manual-shift capability. The lighter-weight GXP coupe will get from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds, while it takes the sedan about seven.

The 3.5-liter V6 is optional on the Base sedan, and the convertible can upgrade to a 3.9-liter V6, which brings horsepower to 222. With this mill, the convertible achieves a rather low 15/22 mpg EPA rating, but all other coupes and sedans fall in the mid-20s for mixed-driving miles per gallon.