Overview & Reviews

The Pontiac Torrent crossover SUV was a rebadged first-generation Chevy Equinox. It was larger than compact crossovers, yet smaller than midsize SUVs. There was plenty of passenger and cargo space thanks to a long wheelbase, and a lengthy list of standard features sweetened the deal -- including a reclining/sliding second-row seat and a movable cargo shelf.

We preferred a few other crossover SUVs to the Pontiac Torrent, but we had a healthy respect for this underappreciated hauler. It had a smooth and quiet ride along with a spacious and versatile cabin, and it was reasonably priced. With the demise of Pontiac due to GM's bankruptcy woes, the Torrent quickly faded into obscurity. Still, it's a solid pre-owned option, especially given GM's commitment to supporting Pontiac products at existing service centers.

Most Recent Pontiac Torrent

The Pontiac Torrent crossover SUV was produced from 2006-'09. There was initially only one trim level; the uplevel GXP model arrived for '08. Standard equipment included alloy wheels, air-conditioning and full power accessories. Upgrading to the Torrent GXP netted more power, sport-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 were available as options on the base Torrent. Depending on the year, a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and Bluetooth were available as stand-alone options.

Available in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configuration, the Pontiac Torrent offered a choice of two powertrains: a 185-horsepower 3.4-liter V6 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission, or the GXP's 264-hp 3.6-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

In reviews, we noted that the base V6's power was meager by six-cylinder standards, though around-town acceleration was adequate. The uplevel V6 in the GXP, conversely, could really haul the mail when called upon. Inside, we applauded the midsize Torrent's ample room for both occupants and stuff. To accommodate larger passengers or bulky cargo, the 60/40-split rear seat could slide nearly 8 inches fore and aft. An adjustable rear cargo shelf further expanded the loading options, and could also function as a picnic table.

Tuned more for ride comfort than acrobatic maneuvers, even in "sporty" GXP trim, the Pontiac Torrent's fully independent suspension delivered a smooth and compliant ride. Putting serious miles on the Torrent was relaxing, as the lack of wind and road noise made for a calm cabin. Our only real complaint concerned the lifeless electric power steering, which struggled to keep up with the rest of the package.

Used-car 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 until '09.

User Reviews:

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  Worst SUV, lots of REPAIRS - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By rocky - January 30 - 2:23 am

  We purchased this vehicle because we wanted a SUV that had better gas mileage than our Envoy. But wish we had just purchased another Envoy!! Have had car in shop numerous times, check engine light repeatly comes on, had front wheel bearings replaced. Now the drivers side heated seat BURNED UP, it even melted my husbands belt!!! I think they(Pontiac) should think about the issue!! Would not buy another TORRENT.

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  I enjoy my ride - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Keith - January 21 - 4:06 am

  Back cargo on the torrent we test drove had cargo cover/table. Very nice feature. The Torrent we drove off the lot in did not have the same feature. Sad.

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  2006 Pontiac Torrent - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Greg - January 3 - 9:40 pm

  Overall, the vehicle is a fun SUV to drive. It has just enough power on both the highway and in the city to make short & long trips fun & enjoyable. The vehicle is reliable in most situations and I like the roominess in the interior. The stereo and sound system is nice. As for the AC, it is about useless in the Las Vegas heat. Many a times, I simply opened up the windows to cool off rather than tax the AC system. Passengers in the rear seats cooked. There is plenty of leg and head room. I have found that the vehicle does not have the much of a turning radius and it has many blind spots; like when backing up or parking. The rear lighting at night from the backup lights is minimal at best

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  2006 AWD AC problems & car quits running - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Alice - January 2 - 12:00 am

  I have a 2006 AWD Pontiac Torrant SUV. I purchased the Torrant in 2006 with 11000 miles on it. It was a loaner car. Love the Torrant when its not in the shop. I have only had two problems with it. Right from the start the AC would quit working I live in the south so AC is a must. Had the Torrant to my dealer several times & another and they couldnt find anything wrong. Finally after they replaced parts and worked on several things they thought it was fixed. Well its still not from time to time. Now Torrant is in the shop again. The suv just quits while I am driving. My dealership is great & really trying to repair. Defective code B2105 com lost with ECM BCM to PCM still problem.

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  back to GM - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By dnance64 - January 1 - 8:26 am

  Just traded in 2000 MB ML320. Liked styling, financing and colors/options. A little noisy on the some back roads and my boys wish for a center arm rest in back seat. Still breaking-in so performance and mpgs still not really tested. Looking forward to lower maint. and fuel prices, and more self maint. This is my 1st GM in over six years and Im happy so far.

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  Wheel Bearings Again? - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Dave - November 24 - 1:46 am

  Bought the torrent because its American made. Have all my 26 years of driving. But this torrent has been fixed 5 times for all of the wheel bearings. Ignition cylinder as well. Bought brand new tires at 55k, had loud vibrating sound coming from front and back, thought it was the bad tires. Not. The rear wheel bearings are once again going bad! Gm builds a quality product, but they need to concentrate on their brakes. This gm vehicle is really getting me down. Good thing I purchased a 100k warranty!

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  2008 Pontiac Torrent - 2008 Pontiac Torrent
  By Barb - October 31 - 1:43 pm

  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.

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  Good Vehicle - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Steven & Stacy - October 4 - 7:30 pm

  We just purchased our Torrent and so far we love almost everything about it. I have lower back problems so the front seats arent 100% comfortable for me. (We didnt get power seats, but that would solve my problem.) We had a Vibe before and after the baby, too small. This is perfect, not too big.

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  First time SUV Crossover owner - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By cacique40 - September 29 - 7:20 pm

  This is my first SUV crossover that I have owned and I am very pleased with the performase of this vehicle. It has plenty cargo pace (for my familys needs), and the rear passenger area is big and confortable too (according to my wife). I like the way it handles and the fast acceleration it provides (I am no F1 driver, mind you). My previous car was a 1999 Grand Am, and I loved it until the day I sold it. I am looking forward to own this one for at least 10 years!

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  Awesome SUV - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Carlos - September 9 - 3:13 am

  Like many of you, I was doing some research last year trying to buy a comfortable, spacious and low price SUV. In conclusion the Torrent beat all the other suv I researched (Patriot,compass, Escape, Mercury). You get more of what you pay for. I bought the Bugg shield, window visor and mud guard. Wish it make it look cooler. Gas Mileage is decent compared to other cars or SUVs, cant complain.