Despite some excellent publicity on the Oprah Winfrey show, the new Pontiac G6 GXP Concept has not received the media attention it deserves. This lack of press is in part due to the popularity of Pontiac’s Solstice – a sportier-looking two-seater. The idea behind the new model was to combine the practicality and functionality of a four-seater coupe with the handling and performance of a roadster.
Pontiac Product Director, Dennis Maraone, was confident of the G6 GXP’s success. “Although the GXP performance series has been very successful in the past, we’ve never attempted to introduce a GXP on our largest volume vehicle and we want to be sure we do it right. We believe the package of exterior, interior and performance enhancements we’ve put together on the G6 GXP show car should appeal to 2+2 coupe enthusiasts.”
The result of these enhancements is a triumph for Pontiac. The G6 GXP is sleek, curvy and low, thanks to the G6 coupe on which it is based – yet it is a distinctive sports car in its own right. Most observers’ attention will be drawn to the old Porsche-style spoiler – the “wail-tail” rear. Next, focus is drawn to the enormous split grille and twin nostril hood scoops. The G6 GXP is anything but subtle in appearance. The lowered frontal air dam adds an aggressive edge.
The lowered appearance of the G6 GXP is aided by a set of lowering springs, pulling the new Pontiac 25mm closer to the ground. The wheels have been super-sized to 19 inches, and vented and cross-drilled brakes have been added.
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Engine power has been increased for 2006. The G6 GXP houses a 3.9 litre V6 engine with 6-speed manual transmission, producing 270 bhp and torque of 259 lb/ft with the aid of a free-flowing cat-back exhaust and K & Nintake. The front-wheel drive setup of the old G6 is retained.
The interior of the old G6 remains almost intact in the new model. Minor modifications include a trim in red chrome; the same effect is also added to the handbrake, gear stick and instrument gauges, giving the interior a sportier edge. The seats are perhaps not quite in keeping with this sports image; bucket seats are not available.
At the time of writing (May 2006), Pontiac have yet to commit to full release of the G6 GXP, despite giving more firm assurances on the GXP Solstice. The New York International Auto Show will afford Pontiac the opportunity to showcase its latest concept model and, should the G6 GXP be a hit with press and public, it may go into production. It is hard to see how the sleek, aggressive look can fail to impress.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings for www.sport-cars.org
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