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:

• 

  Comfortable Cross Over - 2008 Pontiac Torrent
  By Rob L. - September 17 - 6:06 pm

  This is a very good riding cross over type SUV. It gets very good gas mileage on the highway - about 25 to 26. The controls are pretty good, but the steering and handling on the base model is unacceptably sloppy. If you like this vehicle, get the GXP model which has a different and tighter steering system. The center console could be a lot better and more useful - it lacks storage and the center mounted power window buttons are not intuitive.

• 

  warren - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By warren waters - September 9 - 6:36 am

  the car drives well, handles the road bumps well, steering feels a little touchy. very quiet ride.a lot of room inside for people and cargo

• 

  My Mothers-Day Gift From Hubby & Kids - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Teri Munoz - August 31 - 5:13 pm

  I have been looking at this car since November. I told my husband I like this car. its perfect for me and the kids. I have owned almost every chevy car. This is my first Pontiac and I love it. Thanks to my Husband & kids.

• 

  WORST CAR IN THE WORLD!!!!!!!!! - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By theoldboot65 - August 20 - 4:40 am

  Black 2006 Pontiac Torrent, one yr old paint chips off under side mirrors, three years old, on 4 set of brakes, new rear wheel bearings, and backing plates, air conditioning takes a powder. 4 years old, paint on lift gate begins to chip, on rear pass. wheel well chips, paint on hood chips and paint INSIDE drivers side pass. door all chips off--GM says this is just wear and tear, cant help us-- dealer going to do 50 -50 split on new paint job! 2 more sets of brakes, one last week and are squealing again!!! Its no wonder that GM is in trouble....no more Torrents for me, nor any other type of this make of vehicle EVER!

• 

  its great - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By johnson - July 23 - 7:50 am

  its a great midsize, longer wider than most more room with fold flat seats, see real good, service is great, great dash

• 

  A pleasure to drive - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By LS - July 17 - 11:03 pm

  This is my first NEW car. Prior to this purchase, my new car was a 1992 Saturn that we bought in 2000, 45,000 miles. I have truly enjoyed my 07 Torrent. Purchased it in November of 2007 with 14,000 miles. It now has over 45,000 miles on it. We have driven it everywhere, Hot Springs, AR, Marksville, LA and Greenville, TX and several other family vacations. Its very comfortable,lots of room, great on gas and stylish. I was the only one with a Pontiac Torrent in our city and now theyre everywhere; all colors. Our only problem, we had to replace a cracked spark plug at 40,000+ miles.StabiliTrak worked good when coming out of Greenville during a bad thunderstorm. Would buy again.

• 

  A nice ute - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By Russell Pinto - July 9 - 4:40 pm

  A pretty Ute (black). Ride is nice and I think it handles fine. Powertrain is too small, and considering the mileage is realistically 16-18 a bigger motor is in order. Overall I like it.

• 

  Very Good SUV - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By JJSE - May 11 - 4:10 pm

  Have had the car for 3+ years. No reliability issues. Still driving on the original tires, brakes and wheel bearings. Just drove from Denver to St Louis with ave mileage of 24-25 mpg. Very good in snow. Peppy around town but not as much fun to drive as my Honda Accord. Love the interior room and cargo capacity. Can haul more than a Jeep Commander.

• 

  raynez - 2006 Pontiac Torrent
  By raynez - April 22 - 3:33 am

  I am 80-yr.old. Ease of entry, head room, cargo space, are just what I needed. The dashboard is easy to read day or night. My family members are all over 6, and they fit well in the front and back seats.

• 

  After 6 months it still seems a good choice - 2007 Pontiac Torrent
  By Terry - February 12 - 10:30 am

  Got a red one in Dec 2006. Looked at the Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd which is what I had before but wanted something a little less to go along with my new retired lifestyle. Looked at others but nothing clicked until I drove the Torrent. Its towing cap. (3500 lb.) is more than adequate for my use and the back opens up to be fairly flat and roomy. It is fairly quick but no flash -- but then my other car is a Bonneville SSEi (turbo). It handles well and corners well -- it feels agile. My wife does not think the seats are that comfortable -- I think they are OK but could be better. I think it will serve its purpose well.