GM’s 3.6-liter V6 has quietly become one of the most consequential engines in recent American automotive history — and its story starts at a fascinating crossroads moment for the industry. Cast your mind back to 2004: Pontiac was still very much alive, the Honda Element was a quirky fixture in every college parking lot, the Subaru Baja was still hauling light loads, Mercury and Saturn were open for business, and Bluetooth connectivity in a car was a genuine luxury.
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