2007 Pontiac Torrent - Review

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Introduced in 2006, the Pontiac Torrent is a compact front/all-wheel drive crossover vehicle that shares platforms, powertrains, and other essential elements with the Chevrolet Equinox and, to a lesser degree, the Saturn Vue. Like the Equinox, the Torrent is one of the largest compact models available on the market. Its overall length of 189 inches means it's about as big as the mid-size Honda Pilot, but with a longer wheelbase, which helps give it a "big car ride." Its styling is bold, in keeping with Pontiac tradition, and you'll find a decently powerful 3.4-liter V-6 engine under the hood. It produces 185 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. The only available gearbox is a five-speed automatic. The Torrent rides on MacPherson struts up front, with an independent four-link rear suspension with coil springs in the rear. Front-side airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control are available, with the latter being offered only on front-wheel-drive models; anti-lock braking comes standard with all-wheel drive. One neat Torrent feature is a back seat that slides as much as eight inches fore and aft to maximize rear-passenger room or cargo space. Both the split rear seat and the front passenger seat can be folded flat to accommodate long objects, while a height-adjustable cargo panel can function as either a shelf, rear security cover, or a picnic table. For '07, the updates include revised audio systems with MP3 and satellite radio capability, and GM's Stabiltrak stability system is now a standard feature on all trim levels, along with a tire pressure monitoring system.

2006 Pontiac Torrent