Introduction

Exploding consumer interest in the small car segment undoubtedly contributed to Pontiac's decision to bring the G3 hatchback to the U.S. market in the spring of 2009. The car is already successful in Canada as the Pontiac G3 Wave, and in Mexico as a sedan model. When it arrives in dealerships, the G3 will join three other Pontiac models in the "Over 30" (mpg) club: the 2009 Vibe (32 mpg), G6 sedan (33 mpg), and G5 coupe (37 mpg).

The G3 will offer an uncommonly high level of standard content for an entry-level car, says Pontiac, and will provide the "best shoulder and hip room in the segment" with seating for five adults in a 5-door hatchback configuration. The interior features theater-style seating for rear-seat passengers, and with the 60/40 split folding rear seats lowered, up to 42 cubic feet of cargo space is available. Standard equipment will include air conditioning, CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input jack, fog lamps, rear spoiler, and OnStar. The car's standard safety features include four air bags, which Pontiac says will allow the G3 to achieve a 5-star NHTSA frontal crash rating.

When the 2009 Pontiac G3 arrives in dealer showrooms in spring 2009, it will carry GM's 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.