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:

• 

  Sigh, at least the car LOOKS nice. - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By ashleyxmarie - February 9 - 3:35 am

  Only good thing is the styling and power.Bought it as a "GM certified pre-owned"vehicle going through a 101-point inspection. LIES. Purchased it with 33,000 miles on it. It nwo has 68,000. Since purchasing the car several things have occurred: Valve stems cracked within three weeks of purchase & had to get the car towed because of the flat tire. GM paid for the towing. Alternator went out in one year. Spoiler (YES, the SPOILER) became loose and came off and they didnt cover it. GM customer service a joke! The car randomly leaks in the back when going into a high pressured car wash. Black cloth seats get mysterious irremovable water stains? Sucks in the snow/ rain. Traction control is a joke

• 

  I love my new Torrent! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Tammy - January 22 - 3:56 am

  This is a great auto for someone who likes the bigness of a SUV but wants the better gas mileage and size of a car.

• 

  Worst Car Ever! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By trish526 - January 18 - 9:46 am

  This has to be the biggest lemon I ever bought! Its now 2 years old and its been in for service over 10 times starting 6 months after I bought it. Its been in for reasons ranging from a bad battery to the ignition column locking up. Each time I take it in service claims its fixed and each time I have the same issue or a whole new one. Ive called Pontiac and GMC and neither can help me. Im now stuck in a car thats been deemed unsafe for another 2 years because it will cost me too much to get out. I cringe whenever I drive the car and brace myself to deal with service centers. If you want reliable, go with a Honda. If you want headaches, buy a GMC or Pontiac.

• 

  A Great SUV - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Patch - December 15 - 3:56 am

  This is a great SUV. Its got a lot of interior room for the smaller size. The sound system is nice, but could have more reliable speakers (already broke one). It is not powerful enough to tow more then a little trailer to the dump. The 17" wheels are really nice. Great SUV.

• 

  PIECE OF CRAP!!! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By NRBO - December 6 - 2:00 am

  This make is a piece of crap. 2nd year fuel pump went out, third year the entire ignition system went out. 4th year the heater quits working - apparently this has happened to thousand of this model but GM refuses a recall - the part costs $22 but it costs $1500 for labor because to replace the part requires removal of the entire front section of the car. Look it up - blender acuerator. My mechanic says it is the poorest designed car he has ever seen and wont even attempt to replace that part. I am getting rid of this piece of junk as soon as I can. It is winter in the south and no heater. The dealership just laughed when asked about ongoing issues with this car.

• 

  Better Than Expected - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Rich - November 26 - 2:20 am

  Had decided on either a Ford Freestyle or a Toyota RAV-4, but drove a Torrent and liked it much more than the Equinox I had driven earlier. The price versus options was better than the other two vehicles I tried. The ride is comfortable and visibility is good. I also like the fact that the vehicle has stabilitrak and traction control. Mileage is about 22 mpg overall.

• 

  back to general motors - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Tim - November 22 - 11:30 pm

  First of all, GM is priced much better than most companies with HQs overseas. You can dicker with the price for the same quality much more than with Honda or Toyota or Mercedes, etc. Secondly, the build quality is at least equal now---just look for yourselves. My buddy works for Cadillac---he knows its true and now I do too. My Pontiac is trim and big and powerful enough to serve my needs-- -it feels good and with black leather the interior has the right stuff. FULLY equiped the price was thousands less than 4 runner or Highlander or Honda.

• 

  Love That Torrent - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Mia - November 11 - 9:36 pm

  This is my first SUV. So far so good. I love the room in this vehicle. I love the console and that everything is controlled from the center even the windows. Gas Mileage is great. It costs no more to drive than the car I had. I am getting a lot of compliments. "Nice!"

• 

  Happy but wont buy American again - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Wyoming Guy - November 11 - 8:33 am

  Have owned my Torrent almost 3 years. Over all I have to admit I have been happy with it. I like the roominess, the stereo, and the power. The problems Ive had are the right front door speaker had to be replaced, twice. I had to replace the windshield in it, twice. Both times no explanation for why the windshield cracked. Too much flex in the body? Also the remote clicker wouldnt always unlock the car. That seems to be working okay now. The car is nearing the end of its warranty and I had planned on trading before it expires but the car has depreciated so much that I owe more than its worth. Now that Pontiac is going away wonder what that will do to the value? My next car will be a Honda

• 

  Stabilitrak - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By L Bgard - October 17 - 6:26 pm

  I bought my vehicle in June 07 and less than 6 mths later the back tires locked up (while I had my 2 mth old in the car!) and the stabilitrak lights came on. Brought it to the dealer and they fixed (so I thought). One month after my warranty ran out, the light came on again and my steering wheel locked up. I didnt bring it back to the dealer, but figured out it must b a computer glitch. If I turn my car off wait a few seconds then turn it back on, the light normally goes off and the wheel unlocks. This must be a problem with this particular vehicle! Dont purchase this vehicle in an awd! The paint on the window buttons located by the stick shift rubbed off. Looks like crap now. Seat stitching pulled apart