Pontiac Torrent Review

2009 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD Shown

The Pontiac Torrent crossover sport-utility is a rather obvious example of "badge engineering." This term refers to when a manufacturer takes an existing vehicle from a related carmaker and makes a few minor changes and then badges the vehicle under its own name. This is nothing new, of course, and not necessarily a bad thing either -- depending on the inherent goodness provided by the shared platform.

In this case, the Torrent is a kissing cousin of Chevy's midsize crossover, the Equinox. Many folks will find the Pontiac Torrent, like its corporate twin, to be just the right size: larger than the truly compact utes, yet slightly smaller than thirstier and costlier traditional midsize SUVs. There's plenty of passenger and cargo space thanks to a long wheelbase, and a lengthy list of standard features sweeten the deal -- including a reclining/sliding second-row seat and a movable cargo shelf that both serve to maximize passenger and cargo space.

Though we prefer a few other crossover SUVs to the Pontiac Torrent, it still scores high marks where it counts: It has a smooth and quiet ride, boasts a spacious and versatile cabin and is reasonably priced. We say it's worth considering if you're looking for a stylish and capable urban/suburban runabout with a flexible cabin design and high safety ratings. Go easy on the options and you'll be rewarded with an easy-to-live-with midsize crossover.

Current Pontiac Torrent

The Pontiac Torrent is a well-equipped midsize crossover SUV that's available in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations and two trim levels -- base and GXP. Standard equipment on base models includes alloy wheels, stability control, antilock brakes, side curtain airbags, air-conditioning, satellite radio and full power accessories. Upgrading to the Torrent GXP gets you more power, a performance-tuned suspension and steering, bigger wheels, dual exhaust outlets, heated front sport seats and a power driver seat, among other features. Some of the GXP's upgrades are available as options on the base Torrent, and the GXP itself has an options list as well. A navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and Bluetooth are available as stand-alone options.

Base Pontiac Torrents are powered by a 185-horsepower 3.4-liter V6 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission, while the GXP model comes with a 264-hp 3.6-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The base V6's power is relatively meager for this segment, but around-town acceleration is thankfully adequate. The uplevel V6 in the GXP, on the other hand, provides ample thrust.

The midsize Torrent offers plenty of room for its occupants and their stuff, including plenty of rear headroom and legroom. To accommodate larger passengers or bulky cargo, the 60/40-split rear seat can slide nearly 8 inches fore and aft. An adjustable rear cargo shelf further expands your loading options, and can also function as a picnic table.

Tuned more for ride comfort than acrobatic maneuvers, the Pontiac Torrent's fully independent suspension should satisfy most folks shopping this segment. Putting serious miles on the Torrent is relaxing, as the suspension swallows up the bumps and the lack of wind and road noise makes for a relatively calm cabin. Our only real complaint is with the fun-sapping electric power steering, which is overly light and struggles to keep up with the rest of the package.

Used Pontiac Torrent Models

The Pontiac Torrent debuted for the 2006 model year. Used-model shoppers should be aware that some desirable features, such as four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a navigation system, were not available for the Torrent's first year, and side airbags were not standard prior to '09. Additionally, the GXP trim level and its upgraded V6 engine were not available until 2008.

SELECT A SPECIFIC PONTIAC TORRENT MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.