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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  Best SUV/Station wagon ever - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Ricardo - June 25 - 2:13 am

  Love our 2007 Torrent! Great combination of MPG, HP, Weight, Styling and Handling. I think GM has really gotten their act together. This SUV has all the options and still is about $25,000 less than some of its competitors. Looks great and and handles great and its safe too...

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  What a surprise, I had no idea - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By norita - May 28 - 11:23 am

  That this SUV was out there either until my husband showed it to me online. I had been looking at the Rav4 and the Saturn VUE but when I sat in both vehicles I did not feel exactly as comfortable in them as I did the Pontiac Torrent. I sat in this car and it was like a dream! So roomy, and the rear seat fits 3 comfortably! I had 3 guys over 6 feet tall fit in there with ease. Really, a cool looking vehicle, my kids are in love with it and so am I! Only have 33 miles but easy to drive. Much better on gas than my Dodge Grand Caravan.

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  GM can still do it! - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Pontiac Tradition - April 10 - 3:56 pm

  Good looks and excellent performance. I am impressed with quiet cabin and good ride. Back seat leg room is exceptional. Features versus price is way above what I expected. Seats are very compfortable, be sure to opt for the preferred package. Engine performance is better than expected and the 5 speed trany is great.

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  A good vehicle - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Joanne - April 4 - 11:26 pm

  This vehicle handles wonderfully, is spacious, great visibility, and looks quite handsome. A joy to ride with the added feeling of being safe. I have already recommended this vehicle to friends and family.

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  2007 Torrent - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Mark - March 15 - 4:13 am

  Seating comfort was the biggest factor in my choosing the Torrent, but it is fun to drive and Ive been impressed by the fuel economy. I like the exterior styling better than the Jeep or Mariner or even the Torrents twin the Chevy Equinox. The front grille looks like the twin-kindey of a BMW X3, and I like that.

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  good for awhile... then, not so good.... - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By rp - March 11 - 9:56 am

  Own a 2007 fwd torrent - seemed like a good vehicle for first 20000kms, then - a lot of little/annoying things started to happen: - tire pressure sensor malfunction [still is, despite two trips to dealer]... signal lights work, but clicker has stopped working..driver door lock malfunction [cant autolock all doors]...traction control system is MORE OF A HAZARD THAN ANYTHING - I turn it OFF whenever Im driving in snow and ice [which is very often!]...parking brake / cupholder design is poor to say the least ... there are better vehicles out there for similar price.....my 2004 pontiac montana was a much better vehicle...

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  Lots of room, poor fuel economy/engine - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By DandT - February 20 - 1:40 am

  This is my first GM product and my first SUV. Great inside - nice and roomy. Cant use front cupholder and e brake at same time. Only 21-22 mpg.Drives wonderfully - very smooth. Very quiet ride. A pleasure to drive until three weeks ago. Carbon buildup in cylinders at only 21,000 miles and Im not putting trashy gas in it. Something isnt burning right and GM wants to put a band-aid on it instead of finding the cause of the carbon build-up. Ive been without my vehicle for three weeks. Way too new to be having problems.

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  love it - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Frenchyis home - January 24 - 7:26 am

  I totally enjoy driving this car. I had no problem making the change from a car. The torrent gives you a very secure ride, and handles like a dream

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  Please dont buy this truck! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Naomi Milligan - January 18 - 12:54 pm

  I purchased my 2006 Pontiac Torrent used but GM certified the day after I drove it off the lot I had to take it back for an oil pan seal (luckily the dealer covered that since I had the car less than 24 hours) that was just the beginning and I should have RAN!! I have had this truck 3 years and thus far I have replaced the following: tires, 16 wheel bearings (all by different mechanics to rule out mechanics error), rear end, carrier bearing, CV axles (front and rear), brakes and rotors, 4 alignments (to try and fix the wheel bearing issue), ball joints, control arms, EGR tube, ABS sensor, factory radio (switched for an actermarket as Ive heard of sooooo many issues with the factory ones), cruise control, steering column, windshield washer motor, windshield (x3 dont let a pebble hit the glass, ever!), and after JUST putting over a grand in to it not even a month later (which seems to be about the timeline I get in between repairs) the check engine light is on, the alternator is going out, and there is an all too familiar grinding starting back up. I have actually decided to get a second vehicle as this one is in the shop SO MUCH and every time I go to sell it, something else BREAKS and I have to get it repaired. I am not one to beat my vehicles up (I hate paying for repairs!) and this thing STILL is nothing but problems! The interior is also cheaply made as there is paint coming off the door handles and the radio surround. Oh! And the bumper brackets broke about a month after I bought it (and continued to break) so I got innovative and started using cable ties, probably the most reliable part on this entire vehicle!!! STAY AWAY FROM THIS VEHICLE AT ALL COST!!!! Ive estimated about 8 grand (so far) in repairs and as soon as the check engine light came on it started idling hard (non-permissible content removed)!

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  Great - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Robert Schleimer - January 11 - 7:16 am

  Only disapapointment is fuel economy. 22 MPG on trip and 18 in city