2008 Pontiac G5 Quality Review

When it comes to build quality, that age-old downfall of American automobiles, TheCarConnection.com finds that many reviewers are surprised to find themselves impressed by the 2008 Pontiac G5. However, problems arise when it comes to comfort and usability on this 2008 Pontiac.

Being a compact coupe, the 2008 Pontiac G5 is tight on space for a car that can, theoretically, seat five passengers. Some reviewers doubt the seating capacity claim, such as those at MyRide.com, who write that "Pontiac deems the G5 a five-passenger ride, but the outboard headrests and bucketed seat bottom tell a different story." The front seats feature room and comfort levels that are "average for the class," according to ConsumerGuide, and "the seats are generally supportive and have generous rearward travel." However, for those in the rear seats of the Pontiac G5, ConsumerGuide finds that "space is tight even for medium-size adults." Edmunds adds that the "seat design is plain and not especially comfortable--particularly in back where the bench is low and flat." Kelley Blue Book reviewers feel that "backseat riders had better be young and/or small...as heads can easily hit the roof and elbow and leg space isn't much better."

Storage space is certainly at a premium in the 2008 Pontiac G5, as the small dimensions and layout seriously limit your storage options. Edmunds feels that the interior features "marginal...interior storage," while reviewers at MyRide.com are disappointed to find that "carrying large or bulky items is pretty much out of the question." ConsumerGuide offers a different opinion, writing that the Pontiac "G5 has a usefully shaped trunk with good room that's expandable via folding rear seatbacks," but they also note "interior storage is limited to a small glovebox, center console, and door pockets."

Build and materials quality are, surprisingly, among the 2008 Pontiac's redeeming features. ConsumerGuide reviewers write that the Pontiac "G5's cabin makes liberal use of hard plastics," but rather than coming across as a drawback, they feel that "the trim is more sporty than cheap." Edmunds raves about the "well-placed metallic accents" that balance out the "interior plastics." Reviewers at MyRide.com provided the exception, however, as they lament the "plastic surfaces that feel like 40-grit sandpaper" and "the headliner resembled a loose toupee in spots." Those same reviewers at MyRide.com also register a complaint about road noise, finding that the "G5's road noise, tire noise, and wind noise emanating from the door seals don't exactly add up to a serene environment." Other reviewers, such as those at ConsumerGuide, also mention that the engine "buzzes and drones while accelerating and cruising."