Just five minutes looking at one and anybody can see it. Pontiac’s "brand new" G3 sub-compact is just a Chevrolet Aveo in Pontiac drag. While the front bumper and headlights are its own, there’s little else that separates the two models. The Pontiac G3 will be the brand’s first foray into the sub-compact world.
The Aveo has sold relatively well in the few years it’s been out, so it’s only obvious that GM would want to extend that market share to all its sub-brands. In the U.S., Pontiac will offer the 2009 G3 only as a five-door hatchback, powered by a 106-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The EPA rates the G3 with five-speed manual transmission at 27 miles per gallon in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. With the optional four-speed automatic, the car is rated at 25/34 mpg. While these numbers aren’t exactly impressive in a car in this class, it does help GM meet its fuel economy average across its line-up.
Pontiac has not released U.S. pricing but it is estimated that the G3 will be slightly more money than a comparable Aveo. The car will be well-equipped with standard air conditioning, cd player with iPod jack, foglamps, rear spoiler and four air bags. Expect it to be at your local Pontiac dealer by springtime of next year.
Pontiac’s new G3 is a chip of the old block. And the old block is a Chevy Aveo.
