Used 2008 Pontiac Torrent SUV Consumer Reviews
Used Torrent for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Good Solid Ride (Whip)
Michigan Driver, 03/03/2016
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
104 of 104 people found this review helpful
I bought my Torrent used with around 90,000 miles. After a few months I started to have engine power problems transmission problems, losing power, running rough. I also had problems with the stabilitrac and antilock brakes. I went to the dealership and they had no answers or ideas on what the problem was. I did some research and a domino effect of thing were improved by a new egr valve as well as plugs and wires. I did all repairs myself to save hundreds. All the problems went away and I've put 10's of thousands of miles on it with no more issues.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
loved it
lvetzal, 03/08/2010
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
This by far was my favorite car I have owned. I too was recently in a serious collision on a busy highway and walked away without a scratch only because of the vehicle I was driving. It had tons of room handled like a dream and gas wasn't so bad either! The only problem I had was the front wheel bearings went in my first 6 months of owning. But were replaced by my warranty no problem. I would highly recommend this vehicle.
2008 Pontiac Torrent for sale near you
Showing 3 of 25 listings
- GXP 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995231 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,950246 mi away
- GXP 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,200310 mi away
See all 25 listings
Great first SUV
Eric Godat, 04/28/2009
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
16 of 19 people found this review helpful
Just read the news about Pontiac perhaps going good bye. Sad but this Pontiac Torrent is a rock solid performer and for good value. It is said GM always stops building a car when they got it right. I echo most of the comments above. This is a fun to drive vehicle and handles well for the 3.4L Minor gripes: the cupholder window control, Perhaps a luggage rack bar on top as standard. Back seat room is far superior to all other midsize SUVs. The only problem? My 20 year old daughter now "claims" it as her primary driving vehicle! But such is life when you teach children how to help pick a car( she picked it). But I have fun on my commute motorcycle
Like it so much bought a 2nd one
Mikey, 04/02/2009
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Actually owned it's cousin the Chevrolet Equinox for 4 years. I love that car. So much so I added a Torrent to the stable. The Equinox and Torrent are fun to drive and I have had zero problems. A little over 20 in the city and 24-26 on the highway MPG. The moving Rear seat is my favorite feature, but the performance of the engine and transmission is as good as the Mercedes I once owned.
Not what I expected.
Beth, 03/17/2021
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Nice small compact SUV backseats are spacious. Drives well, smooth ride good for road trips. Gas isn't so bad in it. Seems like the average fuel lasting in this day and age. Easy to drive. Only thing I don't care for is the overheating of the vehicle. Took it in to get serviced they replaced thermostat the. All was well. Not to long after it overheats again. I Had to get the radiator replaced! Been okay until yet third year with vehicle ben fighting overheating warnings on the dash again. this time it's not really overheating but it says it is. Also it's showing air bag warning light off an on since beginning, and had tons of ABS issues with it. If u need to get new tires for it the price isn't bad for getting new tires. Doesn't seem to rust quickly body stays well manageable. It is not to low to ground or to tall perfect for the average person. My AuX cord input thing on stereo just went bad it's been iffy since I got it. Only thing I hate hate hate about this vehicle out of all the vehicles I have ever owned. Is the space in it the front cupholders suck big time no room flimsy no protection and the other one is deep down to the floor might as well not even bother using it it would be the same outcome as if u held in on ur leg. No room to put anything up front as in nothing in this car is flat. Everything is at a slope. No little storage cool spots for nothing. So if u put something down expect it to go flying across the dash or anywhere else when u go to drive off in car. Even the slots on the doors r like skinny and small. If u put something down in the slots on the door then u better have a baby's size hand or a long pair of tongs to get it back out. So it's up to you if u like space and storage compartments don't buy this car. If u don't care then cool.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
best for the money
Snappy, 07/21/2009
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have been a sedan or coupe driver all my life, I also build and drive street rods, but this torrent is the most fun vehicle I have ever owned. I always am looking for an excuse to go somewhere. I have looked at other vehicles and it seems to me that this car offers a lot more goodies for the money.
Great SUV for the price
SUV love it, 09/07/2009
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great SUV for the price. Love the features and the ride. MPG is combined about 22. Not bad for a SUV of this size with a V6 engine.
The best crossover vehicle I've owned
Walter Conrad, 02/20/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This will be the third crossover vehicle I have owned the other 2 being Subaru Outbacks a 1997 and a 2002. The Pontiac has it all over them. More power, more room, better styling, better fuel economy all with a lower price tag. The interior on the Pontiac Torrent is very roomy, comfortable and well laid out. Cargo space is huge and versitile because of the sliding rear seat. Fit and finish is outstanding both inside and out. Power from the standard 3.4L V6 is impressive and the 5 speed automatic transmission is smooth shifting and the rest of the drivetrain is also smooth and quiet. Handling, braking and ride quality are top notch as good as I have experienced in vehicles costing much more.
Would recommend
Persy , 01/19/2010
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought in Pittsburgh in Feb 2008. Has handled very well in snow and rain! Doesn't have a lot of horsepower - but, that keeps the MPG lower. Some of the inside features are breaking (mirror covers). But, overall a very reliable car, and I drive a LOT.
Don't buy
joslin3, 11/27/2013
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
12 of 21 people found this review helpful
Absolutely horrible and because you now must deal with GM they don't want to recall these vehicles because that would cause them to fix a problem that Pontiac created.I have owned one for almost 2 years and I have had nothing but problems,within a month of owning it the radio didn't work, the lock on the drivers door costs 300 to fix because unless you actually try to open it while it is locked you would of never known it doesn't lock, the rear windshield wiper motor went, the wheel bearings are 300 a piece, and because of how they are made it is common for rocks and sticks to get into the cv shaft and cause 200 in damage.Stabilitrak & ABS light constantly on & off.
Owning a 2008 Torrent
Tommy Torrent, 11/25/2007
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is fun to drive for my wife, much easier than our previous '03 Explorer. Great ride. The only complaint is the short turning radius.
Never buy a GM vehicle again!
Military Momma, 09/24/2015
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 12 people found this review helpful
Has same issue with the blend door actuator as the 06 model for which there is a recall. GM won't do anything for the same issue in the 08. My son is n active duty member of the US Army and can not afford the over $1000.00 repair Bill. Ridiculous!!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I'm in love
Joey, 09/02/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I just brought this baby home and I'm smitten. I test drove several SUVs over Labor Day weekend (the 2008s were priced to move). I didn't even know that Pontiac had a crossover (I was familiar with the Equinox, which is the same vehicle). I was about to pull the Trigger on a Santa Fe, which actually had a nicer interior with more storage, but once I test drove the Pontiac, I was sold. The 3.4 L pulls that rig right up to speed with no problem, and the handling was tight like a sports sedan. Compared to the Santa Fe and the Escape, the Torrent won on performance alone (and good looks). Also, I averaged 26 MPG on the 120 mile freeway drive home. Not bad for a big vehicle like this.
Don't miss out on a great bargain
Fran, 08/06/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Torrent is a great little SUV for women. Enough space to carry just about anything, but handles like a compact, that fabulous Pontiac power steering and transmission. Pontiac is the true signature American car; sharp style at first glance, muscle when you need it, smooth ride, fun and always dependable. I have done weekend driving with the Murano and the Jeep Liberty and the Torrent beats both no contest. It has all the classic benefits of a Pontiac: fast start, stylish interior and exterior, affordable price (at $26,000 it is $12,000 cheaper than the Murano) and great on gas. I get 27 miles to the gallon, and it only takes $61.00 to fill up the tank. I love this car.
Comfortable Cross Over
Rob L. , 10/04/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a very good riding cross over type SUV. It gets very good gas mileage on the highway - about 25 to 26. The controls are pretty good, but the steering and handling on the base model is unacceptably sloppy. If you like this vehicle, get the GXP model which has a different and tighter steering system. The center console could be a lot better and more useful - it lacks storage and the center mounted power window buttons are not intuitive.
Love This Car
Carol, 11/19/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love how this handles-what a difference between the Torrent and my Jeep. Lot of room, comfortable and smooth ride. For the price you can not beat it.
Great looking SUV
Ryan, 01/20/2009
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who is thinking about getting an SUV. This is my first SUV and I love the look and comfort of it. XM radio in the vehicle is a great feature that I can't believe I lived with out before. This is a very roomy vehicle, yet still very sporty looking.
Strong enough for a man but made for me
Gail Oldow, 02/03/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My husband went on and on about seeing this beautiful vehicle, so we went to test drive it. As soon as I got in and adjusted the seats and realized that I would never again need a pillow to get close enough to the steering wheel, I was in love. And then to top things off,I finally had a place to store my huge purse; the center console lifts up to hold a purse or anything else. And then you can fold the center back down again. For a woman who pays a lot of money for purses, I never have to throw it on the floor, or the back seat, I can have it next to me but neatly stored. Someone was really thinking there. Thank you!
Bill's Torrent
Bill, 02/27/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I previously owned a 1998 Old's Bravada and a 2007 Mazda CX9. All of my vehicles have their pluses and minues but I really like the Torrent. The biggest problem I have is with is with the interior design on the Torrent. The cup holders are virtually worthless to use. The stereo system is excellent. The handling affects out on the road are very good - just hope the gas mileage gets better.
I love this car/crossover whatever
Tim S., 03/01/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So nice, so tight. Moves as one unit. No squeeks, no rattle, just solid build. Quiet, with a nice tech sound to the engine. Everything high technology. Seats firm and fitting. Sit high and command a view of the road. About 26 mpg on the road at 65. 55 gets you 28
Surprisingly good
gr, 12/04/2007
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Outstanding space utilization. Back seat is exceptionally roomy. Flat floor. Great fold down rear seat operation. Folds flat with one hand and misses front seats with room to spare. Relatively light (3800 lbs.) for an SUV with this much room. Tows well with 2500 lb. U haul. Rich exterior appearance (silver with 17 inch wheels). Satisfied with build quality.
Stephanie's Torrent
Stephanie, 03/26/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my Torrent. I went from a little Neon to the Torrent and what a difference. I love sitting up high, it is very comfortable, I love that there is room for my purse (in the middle), it rides very nice and I just LOVE it! My boyfriend loves driving it as well because he has plenty of leg and head room. It has an excellent stereo.
2008 pontiac torrent
tammy/robert, 05/05/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So far so good. Lots of room. Very comfortable. Good braking. Nice exterior design. Getting fair gas mileage.
So far, so good
Steve A., 07/17/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Four months, 7,000 miles (about 70/30 highway/local) 22.7 mpg, same as my '02 Santa Fe 4cyl, but much peppier and roomier. This SUV is fun to drive, has enough horsepower to carry 4 good size (and then some) people without dragging its feet, and handles very well. Even though it has lots of room inside, it's not a huge land barge like the Escalade. My friend bought a Ford Explorer and his 15 mpg is killing him. I've always had good luck with Pontiacs, and this looks like another winner.
Concerns with Manufacturing
Steven Lopez, 09/15/2010
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a 2008 torrent and have had several issues go wrong with the SUV! My windshield wipers don't work on low speed, Air conditioner went out a few weeks ago, my back door, passenger side does not lock or unlock with auto unlock! These are just a few of things I have had trouble with right after the warranty went out!
Perfect Size SUV
ronvrll, 08/05/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in my GMC Yukon for this Pontiac because of high gas prices. Though I would have to settle for less of a vehicle to save gas but I was wrong. Torrent is solid and is fun to drive. Tows my camper with no problem.
Great Choice!
Al S, 08/27/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What can I say. Black on black with 17 in. Wheels and it sexy looking as well as fun to drive. I opted for the 3.4, the 3.8 must be incredible! Love the onstar! Now if they could give us better front cup holders? When you take off, the 5 speed trans is so smooth! Watch it. You'll get speeding tickets! Gave up my stow & go Chrysler Town & Country and have no regrets!
Great choice
Rob R, 04/02/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had the Equinox LS for the past four years and had no real complaints. I know I've only owned the Torrent for a few weeks and its new, however the ride, handling, and style is superior over the Equinox. I would have gone for the new Vue however the cost to lease is unreal. I agree 100% with a lot of the other writers on the quirks based on my experience with the Equinox, but the Torrent is such a better upgrade.
2008 Pontiac Torrent
Barb, 04/10/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded up from a Vibe with 90,000 miles. That little car cost me almost nothing. I miss the Change holder, fuel door lock, always on headlights, and most of all the cover for the storage area. This is especially important for me since I am on the road a lot and my car is in a Motel Parking lot overnight. The car is only 48 hours old and already has 600 miles on it. I hope it is as reliable as the Vibe. It is a solid car, drives well, and maybe someday I will figure out how to program the radio.
not like 2006
butch, 05/06/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well, had the remote start problem back four times still not right. Steering tight. Gas is not good. Miss the change holder. Heated outside mirrors. Seat are not the best for ride, they changed them from 2006. Wish I had my 2006 back. Pag gr.
july08
dnm, 08/31/2008
2008 Pontiac Torrent 4dr SUV AWD (3.4L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The vehicle replaced a leased 2005 GMC EnvoyXL SLT. Though the Envoy was loaded the Torrent has plenty of features and is fun to drive. I pulled my boat 500 miles with no problem and the mileage is about 20% better than the Envoy. The Torrent is fun to drive, don't believe the reviews about it being "mushy" etc. The 3.4 V6 has plenty of spunk. The vehicle performs very well in town and on the highway. Highway mileage is about 25 and city is about 18. Plenty of room inside for 4 adults for long distance and 5 adults is not problem for shorter drives, rear seating has amazing leg room and front seat passenger seat has more room than the Envoy. We added the chrome package and leather.