Ask any auto executive with a hardtop convertible in the portfolio if the added engineering was worth it, and she’ll likely respond with praise for the car’s quiet interior, structural rigidity, coupe-like looks, and the retractable roof’s seamless operation. These are all positive points related to the 2007 Pontiac G6 Convertible. Compared to similar soft top convertibles, the G6’s interior is relatively quiet with the roof raised, only penetrated by some wind and road noise; the body feels strong, though there is some cowl shake with the top stowed; the handsome silhouette resembles that of the G6 coupe; and operating the top is as simple as pushing a button. Aside from the long delay in lowering (33 seconds) or raising (37 seconds) the top, living with a convertible doesn’t get any simpler. In terms of comfort, front passengers shouldn’t have any issues, though those who ride in back are subjected to an upright back rest, hard front seatbacks (though they are sculpted for a bit more leg room), only two cupholders for storage, and hard side panels lacking armrests. Anyone of average height or greater will hit their head against the rear glass when the top is raised. However, in the world of coupes and convertibles, many of these issues are fairly common.

What’s not so common is the retractable hard top, which in the G6’s case, eats up every bit of usable trunk space when lowered. Unlike the Volvo C70 that protects a small cubby, the Pontiac goes from 12.6 cubic feet with the top up to 2.2 cubic feet with the top down. One would be hard pressed to find enough space in there for an empty briefcase or a bachelor’s bag of groceries (a.k.a. a six-pack of Bud Light). Fortunately, the rear seat can be used for cargo when multiple passengers aren’t part of the equation.