Used 2007 Pontiac Torrent

As a division trying to re-establish its performance car credentials, Pontiac’s decision to add the Torrent SUV to its line may, at first glance, seem a bit off the mark. But given the public’s appetite for smaller, more fuel-efficient SUVs and Pontiac’s new-found knack for creating vibrant and youthful vehicles, the Torrent’s creation seems a logical approach to winning over younger buyers. Although the Torrent isn’t really all-new (it shares its platform with the Saturn VUE and Chevrolet Equinox), it does offer a handsome and sporty exterior, a roomy interior with an adjustable rear seat, a standard V6 engine and the option of all-wheel drive.

Generally friendly and inviting, the quiet-running Torrent is easy to drive and stays on course easily. Body lean through curves is less than some rivals, but not absent. All told, the Torrent feels a touch more tightly-crafted and capable than its GM mates. Handling trails import-brand level, but it’s a cut above many domestic SUVs. The ride is a little better controlled than some, yielding a reasonably comfortable around-town experience. Acceleration for passing and merging is satisfactory, but on the mild side. Well-behaved most of the time, the automatic transmission is tarnished by an occasional "clunk" while downshifting at low speed.

With room for five passengers, the Torrent has a fold-flat front passenger seat that accommodates long items. The "multi-flex" 60/40 split rear bench seat adjusts fore and aft and also reclines. The Torrent is one of the easier SUVs to enter, and the backseat provides ample leg space even in its farthest-forward position. The generously supportive and comfortable seats, however, are nearly devoid of side bolstering. Pontiac’s new Solstice Roadster provides the steering wheel’s design, and the distinctively-colored instruments have Pontiac’s "signature" red backlighting, which makes it easier to read them at night than in daylight.

GM marketers promote the Torrent’s "European-inspired" design, complemented by traditional Pontiac styling such as its familiar twin-port grilles. Pontiac claims the widest door openings in its segment to ease entry and exit, and the rear liftgate’s defogger and wiper/washer aids with visibility. Sixteen-inch tires, a sport-tuned suspension, electrically-assisted power steering and wide (61.8-inch) track dimensions help with stability. Ground clearance approaches eight inches, with cleated skid plates and short front and rear overhangs to assure favorable approach and departure angles. Despite these heavy-duty features, the Torrent isn’t intended for serious off-pavement treks.

Sliding Rear Seat
All you do is lift the long bar that runs along the front of the seat, and it slides forward and back to create more passenger legroom – or alternatively, more space for cargo.

Big Interior Space
This is classed as a "small" SUV, but the interior space puts many imports to shame.

Every Torrent features a 3.4-liter V6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission, manual air conditioning, power windows and locks with remote keyless entry, tilt steering, a six-speaker CD stereo, daytime running lights, a rear spoiler, StabiliTrak stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system, 20-setting driver information center, roof rails and bodyside moldings. Front-wheel-drive models come with standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and traction control.

Roof-rail side-curtain airbags are optional, and a multi-position adjustable rear package shelf may be installed. Additional options include leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats (with either cloth or leather upholstery), a power driver’s seat, 17-inch aluminum wheels, a moonroof, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, DVD navigation, remote starter and a CD/MP3 stereo with six-CD changer. GM’s OnStar communications system and XM Satellite Radio also are available. GM’s Accessories division can supply 19 extra items to suit owners who crave a custom look.

While the 3.4-liter V6 powering the Torrent is far from a cutting edge design, it has more than enough horsepower and torque to provide a nice balance between good acceleration and reasonable fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system doesn’t seem to change the performance much. Pontiac’s adaptive five-speed automatic transmission delivers near seamless shifts and its fifth gear helps maximize fuel consumption at highway speeds.

3.4-liter V6
185 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
210 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 (FWD), 19/25 (AWD)