Exceptional powertrains
Simply put, the G6’s new family of powertrains complements its athletic good looks and “let’s-do-that-curve-again” handling. At the start of production the G6 and G6 GT models will be offered with a new 3.5-liter V-6 engine, rated at 200 horsepower and 220 lb.-ft. of torque – more standard power and torque than the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series. The engine has broad power bands that produce stirring performance for low-rpm acceleration and high-rpm responsiveness. Technical innovations, including electronic throttle control, enhance the connection between driver and car.

The 3.5 V-6 is backed by the Hydra-Matic 4T45-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. For drivers who enjoy more control of the engine’s power bands, the G6 GT’s automatic transmission also is equipped with a manual shift mode. The feature allows the driver to manually select the gears without the need for a clutch or just leave it in the fully automatic mode.

With the manual-shift mode, sophisticated programming allows much more driver control than some competitors’ manual-control automatics. Gear changes are quick and crisp; and although the system’s programming won’t allow the engine to rev into a damaging rpm zone, it will not shift for the driver when in manual mode.

“The driver has total control with the transmission in manual-shift mode,” said Stefanyshyn. “It adds an exhilarating component to an already rewarding driving experience and supports the G6’s total performance mission.”

Later in the ’05 model year, the G6 GTP debuts with an all-new 3.9-liter HO V-6. Rated at 240 horsepower, the powerful V-6 also benefits from variable valve timing and active air intake technology. Transmission choices include a Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic with manual shift mode or an all-new, high-performance six-speed manual transmission.

For the 2006 model year, the G6 will add a 2.4-liter HO four-cylinder to its lineup. The all-aluminum, DOHC 16-valve Ecotec engine delivers 170 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque. It is mated to the 4T45-E transmission.

Intuitive handling
With its wheels at the corners and long wheelbase, the G6 significantly raises the bar for responsive handling in the midsize segment. The 112.3-inch wheelbase provides a smooth ride and enables more aggressive and responsive suspension tuning.

The front suspension consists of a MacPherson strut design with aluminum control arms and a direct acting stabilizer bar. The suspension is mounted to a U-shaped hydroformed chassis cradle that is isolated from the chassis with four specially tuned rubber mounts. The mounts reduce noise, vibration and harshness felt in the vehicle for a smoother, quieter ride.

In the rear, a four-link independent suspension design uses twin-tube shocks and, like the front suspension, a direct acting stabilizer bar. Attached to the shocks, in addition to the chassis, direct acting stabilizer bars respond more quickly to suspension loads and driver input, as well as reduce body roll.

Sixteen-inch wheels are standard on the G6, with 17-inch wheels standard on GT and GTP models. GTP customers also will be able to select optional 18-inch wheels.

Variable-assist electric power steering (EPS) is standard and aids low-speed maneuvering with a lighter feel, while increasing in firmness at higher speeds. EPS reduces underhood mass and, because there is no hydraulic fluid, eliminates a potential environmental pollutant.

World-class braking also is an integral component of G6’s performance. Large, heavy-duty four-wheel disc brakes have superior caliper drag performance that contributes to improved fuel economy and reduced pulsation, as well as European-style brake pads that provide excellent pedal feel, stopping power and fade resistance. Anti-lock brakes are standard on GT models.

Enhanced Traction System full-function traction control and Vehicle Dynamic Control System, which uses a yaw sensor and other features to keep the vehicle under control in the most challenging driving conditions, also are available.

Safety assurances
The solid Epsilon architecture provides the G6 with built-in safety assurance. Its safety cage construction is complemented with reinforcements in the rocker areas, front body hinge pillar and roof pillars designed to improve impact protection.

A magnesium cross-car beam is an integral component in the G6’s safety construction. Serving as the foundation for the dashboard, this beam ties together the lower sections of the A-pillars and helps the vehicle protect passengers in side-impact crashes. Additionally, high-strength steel is used throughout the architecture in strategic areas to bolster overall strength.

The G6 comes standard with dual-stage front air bags, seatbelt pretensioners and an energy absorbing steering column. Head curtain “roof rail” side air bags, which help protect the outboard front and rear passengers’ head and upper torso during a side-impact collision, are available. Seat-mounted side air bags, which help protect the thorax in side collisions, also are available.

Remote keyless entry and a content theft alarm are standard on V-6 models.

“The G6 has the refinement and attention to detail needed to compete in today’s competitive sports sedan market,” said Myers. “Its outstanding power, ride and handling make G6 a ‘gotta have’ car for sports sedan enthusiasts.”

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