The Aura's interior looks good, feels bad. They screwed it up. I'm withholding judgement on the Malibu until I actually get to see one.
I'd pass on the 500. It's a bit of a lame duck and I am not impressed by it. It seems to me like a continuation of the Taurus in most things. The Fusion/Milan/etc cars are actually impressive and very competitive and well worth a look.
The G6 looks good, drives well, feels nice, but has the usual UAW crappy build quality. The sliding/slatted roof leaks.
The 2008 Five Hundred is out this summer - new engine and transmission - 30% more power, same fuel economy (on par with an Avalon). New interior materials.
"The G6 looks good, drives well, feels nice, but has the usual UAW crappy build quality. The sliding/slatted roof leaks."
That can't be a big surprise to anyone - first time I saw it I knew that slatted roof would be a rattle and leak magnet. Wouldn't buy one with it. Pretty much indifferent about sun roofs, anyway.
The 500 I was attracted to mostly on the basis of its size, although I think it is also a reasonably handsome, conservatively-styled car. Certainly as much so as my Accord, anyway. Now, will it hold together as well in the long run, and hold its value, the way my Accord will?