[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-value-text”]A base Torrent makes some sense as a space-efficient people mover with attractive pricing. Overall refinement trails class leaders, however. Vague steering and sloppy handling take all the fun out of driving. The aggressive GXP offers a meaningful amount of extra power, but suffers from a rough ride and excessive noise. Despite Torrent’s relatively low resale value, any number of midsize crossover SUVs deserve a higher place on your shopping list.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-overview-text” title=”Overview”]
Pontiac introduced a new midsize sport-utility vehicle for 2006. The Torrent crossover wagon shared its car-type platform and drivetrain with the Chevrolet Equinox, though the Torrent’s suspension was tuned to impart a sportier feel. All Torrents seated five; no third-row seat was offered. The Multi-flex 60/40 split, reclining rear seat slid fore and aft by 8 inches, to maximize either passenger or cargo space. The front passenger seat folded down to allow carrying of longer items. A one-piece rear hatch did not include separate-opening glass. Pontiac claimed the widest rear door openings in the Torrent’s segment.
Torrents came with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which lacked low-range gearing. A 185-horsepower V6 with five-speed automatic transmission was the sole powertrain. Antilock brakes were standard. Traction control was standard on the 2WD model. Head-protecting curtain side airbags were optional. Remote keyless entry was standard. Available features included leather upholstery, heated front seats (cloth or leather), satellite radio, and 17-inch aluminum wheels in place of the standard 16s. Potential rivals included the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander.
2007 Torrent
For 2007, standard ABS and traction control were joined by an antiskid system and rear disc brakes. Curtain side airbags, which now included rollover deployment, remained optional. An available Premium Package included leather upholstery and heated front seats. A navigation system and remote engine start were newly available.
2008 Torrent
New for 2008 was a sporty Torrent GXP model with a 264-hp 3.6-liter V6, six-speed automatic transmission, sport suspension, and specific trim.
2009 Torrent
Few changes marked the Torrent for 2009.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Engines”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text title=”Engines” disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-engine-section-head”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-powertrains”]transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-powertrain-text”]Regular Torrents used a 3.4-liter engine that developed 185 horsepower, with a five-speed automatic transmission. Introduced for 2008, the Torrent GXP held a 264-hp, 3.6-liter V6 and a six-speed automatic. Torrents may have front-wheel or all-wheel drive.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_table style=”style2″ el_class=”used-engine-specs”]
[/mk_table][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”engine-note”]1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”RoadTest”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text title=”Road Test” disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-engine-section-head”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-roadtest-text”]
The GXP’s 3.6-liter V6 engine provides very good power delivery from a stop, and for highway passing and merging. The transmission has a tendency to hunt between gears at highway speeds. Base Torrent models have not been tested. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 pounds for all Torrent models.
Fuel economy earns no prizes. A test 2WD Torrent GXP averaged 19.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. All models use regular-grade gasoline.
The GXP’s sport suspension and low-profile tires take a hit on ride quality. Most bumps are felt, but they don’t jar. Despite the aggressive suspensions and tire combination, GXP handling quality falls short of sporty. Steering is rather numb, though grip is decent, but quite a bit of body lean occurs in turns. Tracking and straight-line stability are good; so is braking control.
Quietness is not a virtue. GXP models are alarmingly coarse. The engine is particularly unrefined, the exhaust note is raspy, and tire noise is excessive. One test model suffered from loud wind whistling around the side windows.
Gauges are large and easy to read. Major controls are logically positioned and easy to find. Some test-drivers found the center-console-mounted window switches an annoyance. The available navigation system incorporates audio functions, but does not complicate their use. Quality of interior trim improved for 2008, though the overall tactile experience still trails most competitors. More surfaces are hard and shiny than soft or padded.
Front occupants get plenty of headroom and legroom. Seats offer fine support. Thick front roof pillars block vision when cornering, and rear sight lines are hindered by the sloping roof.
Rear riders enjoy ample headroom. The clever Multi-flex sliding rear seat adjusts easily to create generous legroom. Split 60/40, it can accommodate three child safety seats; and two can remain in place while one seatback is folded.
Cargo room is generous. While the seatbacks don’t fold completely flat, they are no major hindrance, either. The height-adjustable cargo shelf is handy but feels flimsy. Cabin storage consists of a smallish center console and shallow glovebox.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_content_box icon=”icon-road” heading=”Ratings” el_class=”ratings-box”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″]Model Tested: 2008 Torrent GXP w/AWD[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″ el_class=”review-slideshow-caption”]Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-performance-ratings” title=”Performance”][mk_skill_meter title=”Acceleration – 7″ percent=”70″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Fuel Economy – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Ride Quality – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Steering/Handling – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Quietness – 3″ percent=”30″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Accommodations” el_class=”used-accomodations-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Controls/Materials – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Front – 7″ percent=”70″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Rear – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Cargo Room – 8″ percent=”80″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Other” el_class=”used-other-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Value – 3″ percent=”30″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-ratings-total”]
Brakes
Description: The brakes may become spongy or the pedal may go almost to the floor unless the brake modulator valve is replaced. (2009)
Keys
Description: The key may be hard to remove from the ignition and an improved lock cylinder is available. (2007-09)
Audio system
Description: When using a portable music player (e.g. iPod) there may be noise in the car’s speakers whenever the vehicle’s power adapter is used and a ground loop isolator (from Radio Shack) is required between the device and the power outlet to prevent the noise. (2007-08)
Windshield washer
Description: The windshield washers may work poorly or quit working because the filter on the pump gets clogged, and continued attempted use may burn out the pump. (2007-08)
Wipers
Description: The windshield wipers may only work on one speed and/or the other functions on the turn signal stalk may quit due to voltage spike from the wiper motor damaging the body control module. (2007)
None
Description: The DVD monitors in the front seat headrests may quit working because the video feed cable comes loose requiring installation of cable clamps. (2007-08)
None
Description: The hatch may be hard to open in cold weather (below freezing) due to problems with the support struts. (2007)
2007 Torrent
Description: Incorrect primer may have been used when installing windshield, so it may not be retained properly in a crash.
2007 Torrent
Description: Right front-passenger seat’s sensing system may fail to respond correctly if a small adult or a child is occupying that seat.
2007 w/o optional roof rail airbags
Description: Airbags or optional sunroof may not comply with federal safety standards, increasing risk of head injury in a crash.
2007 Torrent without roof rail airbags or sunroof
Description: An interior surface falls short of a Federal safety standard and poses an increased risk of head injury in a crash. Dealers will install an energy-absorbing foam piece to each of the A-pillar trim assemblies.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”hidden-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_accordions style=”fancy-style” action_style=”accordion-action” open_toggle=”0″ container_bg_color=”#fff”][vc_accordion_tab title=”Equipment Lists”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″]Click on year to see equipment lists for all models offered for that model year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=”2006″][mk_table style=”style1″ el_class=”used-equipment-table”]
2006 Pontiac Torrent
Pricing Effective: 05/26/2006
Model Pricing
Retail Price
Dealer Price
Destination
2WD Base 4-door wagon
$ 21,400
$ 19,945
$ 590
AWD Base 4-door wagon
23,205
21,627
590
Price Note:
Standard Equipment
Base : 3.4-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, traction control, dual front airbags, antilock brakes, daytime running lights, air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, fold-flat passenger seat, center console, cupholders, adjustable split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, intermittent wipers, visor mirrors, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights, fog lights, roof rails, rear spoiler, theft-deterrent system, 235/65R16 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, Deletes: traction control
Leather upholstery, heated front seats (Base). Base requires Preferred Pkg.
Sun and Sound Pkg.
1580
1390
Power sunroof, Pioneer AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer. NA w/DVD entertainment system.
Chrome Appearance Pkg.
Base
1400
1232
Chrome grille and door handles, roof rack, skid plates, chrome-clad alloy wheels.
Trailering Equipment
350
308
Trailer-hitch receiver, wiring harness.
Comfort & Convenience Features
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Navigation system
2145
1888
Requires Pioneer sound system.
DVD entertainment system
995
876
Pioneer sound system
395
348
Wireless cell phone link
50
44
Base requires Preferred Pkg.
Heated front seats
Base
250
220
Requires Preferred Pkg.
Cargo cover
175
154
Smoker Pkg.
35
31
Ash tray, lighter.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Special paint
195
172
Engine-block heater
75
66
Roof rails
GXP
150
132
Roof rack
150
132
GXP requires roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
235/60R17 tires
Base
295
260
Chrome-clad alloy wheels
Base
750
660
Includes 235/60R17 tires.
Chrome alloy wheels
Base
850
748
Includes 235/60R17 tires.
[/mk_table][/vc_accordion_tab][/vc_accordions][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”visible-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Equipment Lists”]Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Pricing”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-pricing-text” title=”Pricing”]Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section]
