The 2009 Pontiac G5 is Pontiac's version of the Chevy Cobalt and the Saturn Ion. It's a sharp looking subcompact with Pontiac's signature grill, a rear spoiler and an aerodynamic design, plus the G5 just plain looks good for a small car.

While the G5 only has one body style, it offers two trim levels and two motors. In addition to the base G5, there is the GT. The base engine is a 2.2 liter four cylinder with 148 horsepower. It can be upgraded to a 2.4 liter engine with variable valve timing and 171 horsepower. The 2.4 liter engine is standard in the GT. Mileage depends on the combination of engine, transmission and wheels, but you can expect to get at least 23 miles per gallon city and 32 miles per gallon highway.

Speaking of transmissions, there are two offered. Standard is a five speed manual, but you can order a four speed automatic.

Don't be fooled by the G5's five passenger rating. It will seat two adults in reasonable comfort. The back seats are okay for children, but if you're taking extra adults use a bigger car. On the other hand, the G5 only comes in a coupe, so the doors are big enough for adults to enter and leave the vehicle easily.

The G5 has a host of available features which include just about anything you can get on any other General Motors vehicle. One of the handiest will probably be the 60/40 split rear seats with a pass through option. Others include OnStar, hands-free calling, XM radio with a Pioneer sound system, navigation system and IPod integration.

Starting price for the base model is $16,275. This makes it competitive in terms of price, mileage and horsepower. Air bags, dual speed front airbags, passenger sensing system, emergency trunk release, running lights and a tire pressure monitoring system all come standard. The GT also has standard antilock brakes, which are available on the base model. All speed traction control is available on both models and GM's stability enhancement system is available on the GT. NHTSA gives a five star front crash rating and solid fours everywhere else, a good average for small cars.

All that having been said, the customer base for the G5 seems limited to first time drivers like high school, or maybe college, kids and possibly young newlyweds. Certainly, it's too small for even a new family, in spite of having the LATCH system. Hauling anything more than a few groceries is out of the question. On the other hand, if you're looking for a first car for your son or daughter, or a college car, and you want to get them something they'll enjoy driving, then the 2009 Pontiac G5 is certainly worth a look.