Pontiac, the brand that gave us the GTO in 1964 and officially launched the muscle car era, knows that adding a dose of horsepower to an otherwise ho-hum vehicle can have a transformative effect. A nothing-special 326 LeMans can become a Tri-Power 389 GTO.

Likewise, a transportation module like the Torrent crossover can finally live up to its name, once it becomes a GXP.

What's a GXP?  It's a new version of the Torrent that Pontiac is putting into the lineup for '08 to help juice up interest in its mid-size, five-door crossover. The package centers around a 3.6-liter V-6 that's massively more powerful than the 3.4-liter V-6 that's been the standard Torrent powerplant since the model's introduction back in 2006. The new engine produces 264 hp, a great leap forward of nearly 80 horsepower over the 3.4's not-so-torrential 185 hp rating.

The GXP package also includes a standard six-speed automatic transmission with "tap up, tap down" manual shift control, polished 18-inch rims with 50-series Goodyear Eagle RS-A performance tires, unique hood with twin pressed-in "aero scoops," dual exhaust tips jutting out of the rear valance, and projector-style fog lamps leading the way up front. The suspension's been lowered and tuned to be firmer, too. GM's Stabilitrak integrated electronic traction/stability control system is also included, as are heated front seats, a performance-themed gauge cluster and GXP-specific exterior, and interior trim.

The GXP may be ordered with either front-wheel drive ($27,830) or all-wheel drive ($28,980). This is unusual: most of the time with a performance-themed crossover/wagon, all-wheel drive is mandatory. That's a great choice to have, because not everyone needs or wants AWD, but most of us would agree that the extra power is desirable. The AWD system adds about 140 pounds (4060 vs. 3919) and slows down the GXP a little, and cuts fuel economy a bit, but again, it's choice that matters.