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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  2008 pontiac torrent - 2008 Pontiac Torrent
  By tammy/robert - July 18 - 2:46 am

  So far so good. Lots of room. Very comfortable. Good braking. Nice exterior design. Getting fair gas mileage.

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  Great Mid Size SUV - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Jessica Evilsizor - June 1 - 5:03 am

  I have owned my Pontiac Torrent for 6 weeks and love to drive it! The interior is amazing with the sun and sand package, 6 disc cd changer, numerous speakers, and of course sun roof, and the gas mileage is not too bad either. I drive in downtown Indianapolis everyday and still get 22 miles to the gallon.

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  Still keeps on going - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By stillluvit - May 10 - 5:43 pm

  I bought mine new in 2006 with all options except AWD...didnt need it...had great tires...now it has 159000 miles and continues to be comfortable, quiet and great on gas...dont know where the naysayers got theres or how they drove it...if Pontiac still sold these, Id get one.

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  Locked up steering and ignition - 2008 Pontiac Torrent
  By dgulrey - March 24 - 8:36 am

  This car has locked up 8 times on us since we bought it in April 2008 I have been told thats the way there designed and thats normal for torrents.

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  love it - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Kathi - March 9 - 1:43 pm

  I have driven in the Ozarks and with all the hills and turns the Torrent handles the curves well!

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  Enjoying New Torrent - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By JohnV - March 3 - 4:36 am

  I wasnt interested in an SUV until I test drove a Torrent. I was very impressed on how it handled,and how enjoyable it was to drive. The interior also caught my eye with the great amount of leg room in the back.

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  Great Little ute - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Great little SUV - February 12 - 8:46 am

  I researched and then some in my attempt to buy a small to midsize SUV, looked at the VUE and wasnt impressed, Envoy and Trailblazer are too overpriced, I saw the Torrent and took her for a drive and all i can say is that it I enjoy it thoroughly, nice get up and go, and roomy as hell interior, and price was great, i paid $21,000 for 2wd with the 17 in wheel package, I recommend it to anyone in the market for a small to midsize SUV

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  Excellent SUV - Fun to drive - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Stan - February 10 - 9:13 am

  Excellent SUV! Drives well and looks great. Gas mileage is decent, with the engine offering plenty of power and pep. Im 62", and I find the seats very comfortable with plenty of legroom. My Torrent has the "Crystal Lake" paint color, which sometimes looks blue, sometimes green, sometimes purple! GM has definitely improved on their interiors with this car

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  Torrent kept us safe - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By azalea25 - January 30 - 2:56 pm

  After much research for a safe but affordable SUV, we purchased a Torrent in August. Unfortunately, after only a month of ownership, a teenage driver rear-ended us and pushed us into a school bus. Thank God no one was hurt, but the Torrent was totaled. I credit the Torrent for keeping my son and me safe inside even though the outside was badly mangled. I shudder to think what would have happened had we been in a different vehicle.

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  Get to know your mechanic! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By callaann27 - January 9 - 12:30 am

  I bought my Torrent used with 70,000. Around 80K I replaced a wheel bearing and it stopped heating. By 90K I had blown head gaskets twice and made the decision to put a new motor in it with 44K. This motor is running much smoother but my engine light stays on at all times. Going on 95K on the body and my struts need to be replaced and another set of tires. I need to get this car paid off and move on from GM.