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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  Whats up with the wheel bearings? - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Melissa - January 22 - 5:06 am

  From 20000 miles until today I have replaced a total of 5 wheel bearings each and then again the rear passenger side. I cannot for the life of me figure out what is causing this! The first two were under warranty the last 3 have cost a whopping $ 400 each incl. labor. Fortunately today my mechanic gave me a break on the parts and discounted my bill I hope that this is the last that needs replaced but I fear it wont be.

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  Fair - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Netyoda - December 22 - 7:30 am

  This SUV crossover is a good attempt by Pontiac but seems to have been more of an afterthought than a outright new vehicle. Oversights with Interior items such as a poorly placed cup holder (blocks the Emergency brake) which also allows drink-sweat to drip directly into a accessory outlet directly below the cupholders. The instrument cluster is eay to read and the blood-red color is nice at night. Although overall i am very happy with this vehicle, i woould appreciated more attention to detail such as the drink holders and the clips holding the sun visors. The clips do not firmly hold the visor so they sometimes come loose when driving.

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  In the shop a lot! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Joanna - December 19 - 10:33 pm

  I have taken my 2006 Torrent in to get fixed more than id like to say. The one thats bothering me the most is that during the past 23,000 miles I have had the bearings replaced 3 times... this is not normal, correct? It is in the shop right now and since it is no longer under warranty, they will not pay for the bearings to be replaced again. I am so frustrated and do not know what to do. Any advice?

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  Great S U V, for the money - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Don Dieboll - December 6 - 4:23 am

  This is a fun suv to drive, very comfortable and great handling on curves, with the awd. Like the pioneer premium 7-speaker sound system. Also like the sun roof, never have had that before on a car. Fuel economy could be better, but you cant have everything. I paid extra for the sporty running boards and they really look great and sporty with them on. Also like the radio controls on the steering wheel.

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Mick - November 30 - 1:33 pm

  I have driven my Torrent up to 9950 in Rocky Mountain National Park partially on ice and snow. The AWD worked great with no slips or skids! The transmission worked fine ascending and descending the steep mountain roads. It was fun motoring up and down the tight roads with a positive feel of the road in such a nicely equipped SUV.(It operates fine here on the level in town, too.) I now have 2500 miles on my Torrent with no problems.

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  Absolutely Love This Car, Thanks Edmunds - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Chip Bayko - November 2 - 10:43 pm

  This is the second car I purchased in the last 2 years following everything I learned from Edmunds. Edmunds and their information e.g consumer reviews are an invaluable aid and extremely accurate! I could not be more pleased. I love this car. I have the high end, with Leather and Moon Roof. The car is exceptionally comfortable; handles well; build quality is excellent. A pleasure to drive. Roomy, but deceivingly smaller in appearance. I have now compared it to all the major competitors in the parking lots around town; and its right up there with a 4 Runner, Pilot, Murano and Grand Jeep.

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  fun to drive, pig on gas - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Pete - October 31 - 7:43 am

  I blew a wheel bearing after 3 weeks of ownership. The blower motor bearing is also bad. I am lucky to get 12L/100km Hwy (40% worse than sticker). This is gentle hwy driving!! It is very comfortable, good visibility, lots of space. Steering is weird and turning radius is a joke. Hard to believe, but delay wipers are not adjustable. No navigation system available. Great in snow, excellent braking, decent acceleration. Dont waste your money on AWD unless you live in remote snowy areas. 99% of the time it is just extra weight and wasted gas. Nissan X-trail and Suzuki Grand Vitara feel very cheap and noisy in comparison, and the X trail wasnt much more gas efficient.

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  Great little Pontiac - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By brent - September 17 - 5:40 am

  This is a true Pontiac with its style and features and far less price then many in its class. I live in Montana and have never had a problem with snow in the back country or just going on a sunday drive ( I have the AWD ) Just a fun little SUV to drive.

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  Winter Handling - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By irish - September 5 - 2:03 am

  I have a 2006 Pontiac Torrent and it is absolutely the worst handling car I have ever driven in the snow. The traction control light goes on but doesnt seem to help at all. Starting,stopping, and cornering are all bad. Any faster than 3 - 5 mph around a corner, and it will spin. Much worse than my S-10.

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  Good Solid Ride (Whip) - 2008 Pontiac Torrent
  By Michigan Driver - August 9 - 5:52 pm

  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 Ive put 10s of thousands of miles on it with no more issues.