The 2008 Pontiac G5 continues to expand on the car's impressive performance and styling, while offering additional standard features for enhanced safety and driving comfort. Constructed on GM's global small car platform, it emphasizes ride comfort and crisp handling; and provides quality materials and stylish appointments. It is available in a base model and GT trim.

The Pontiac G5 has an advanced ecotec four-cylinder engine for each trim. The base G5 is powered by an ecotec 2.2-liter I-4 rated at 148 horsepower (110 kW) and 152 pound-feet of torque (206 Nm). The ecotec 2.4-liter I-4, rated at 171 horsepower (128 kW) and 167 pound-feet of torque (226 Nm), is standard on the GT. The G5 comes standard with a Getrag F23 five-speed manual transmission. Customers can also choose GM's hydramatic 4T45 electronically controlled four-speed automatic.

The Pontiac G5 features an aggressive front grille, clean lines and a standard rear spoiler. The spacious interior can comfortably seat five passengers. The base G5 is well-equipped with standard features, including air conditioning; power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; carpeted floor mats; and four cup holders (two in front, two at the back). The GT model ups the ante on standard features, with anti-lock brakes, 17-inch aluminum wheels, sport rocker moldings, heated seats, fog lamps, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, leather-wrapped shift knob, and cargo net. Both models are available in nine exterior colors, including three new ones: midnight blue metallic, nitrous blue metallic and dark slate metallic.

The rigid body structure, which is the foundation of the Pontiac G5's dynamic driving experience, also reinforces its safety. In addition to this solid unibody structure are standard dual-stage front and head curtain side-impact air bags. Front seatbelt pretensioners, rear center shoulder belts, and Latch are also standard.