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2006 Pontiac Torrent FWD Road Test

Multi-Flex Seating Adds Practicality

Pontiac has been undergoing a renaissance of late, redefining itself with the introduction of numerous un-Pontiac-like models such as the midsize G6, in sedan, coupe and soon, retractable hardtop forms, plus the now popular Solstice roadster. But theres another new addition to the fleet that should at the very least be revered for being the replacement for the brands dreadfully unappealing Aztek.

The Torrent is a new vehicle for Pontiac. It fills the compact to midsize SUV role in GMs excitement division, and, if you hadnt already figured out the resemblance, is kissin cousin to Chevys recently introduced Equinox. Like Chevys version, Pontiacs Torrent is a peppy, V6-powered 4-door crossover-style SUV, available in both front- (FWD)

At the very least the Torrent should be revered for being the replacement for the Pontiacs dreadfully unappealing Aztek. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.

Like the Equinox, the Torrent will comfortably seat five adults. In fact I was quite surprised by the generous proportions allotted to occupant comfort. Head and legroom in all seating positions is plentiful. Rear legroom, which is often cursed in smaller SUVs and wagons, can be extended in the Torrent thanks to a rear seat that slides fore and aft up to 8 inches. The 60/40 split rear

The Torrents 60/40 split rear seat folds flat to provide a large unencumbered cargo area, the versatility of which is augmented by a flat-folding front passenger seat. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

seat also folds flat to provide a large unencumbered cargo area, the versatility of which is augmented by a flat-folding front passenger seat and a height adjustable rear shelf. When maximizing humans and cargo accommodations within finite spaces, flexibility is the key. Pontiac has done a competent job of engineering flexibility into the Torrents seating arrangements, which they refer to as Multi-Flex, however unlike some rival SUVs such as the Honda Pilot, the Torrent doesnt offer

I was somewhat astonished to discover that the Torrent, with an overall length of 4,795 mm (188.8 in), is longer than Hondas Pilot. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

a third row seat. Unfortunately for Pontiac, this will be a deal-breaker for some family purchasers.
Speaking of Hondas Pilot, I was somewhat astonished to discover that the Torrent, with an overall length of 188.8 inches, is longer - the Pilot measures in at 188 inches. Somehow the Torrent comes-off looking and feeling much smaller than its Japanese counterpart. Perhaps the Pilots greater width, height, aforementioned third row and larger cargo volume generates the size misconception, because it certainly isnt its wheelbase as the Torrent outdistances the Pilot in this

The Torrents cargo deficit is largely attributable to its slimmer body and contoured roof line. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

measurement by a considerable margin.

Despite the greater real estate separating the Torrents axles, the Pilot achieves a cargo capacity of 90.3 cubic feet versus the Torrents significantly smaller 68.8 cubic feet. The Torrents cargo deficit is largely attributable to its slimmer body and contoured roof line, which slopes-off quite dramatically at the rear. If there is a payoff accompanying the Torrents diminished cargo hold and narrower body size, its a perception that one is driving a smaller, easier to maneuver vehicle.

My tester was not the heavily contented AWD Sport version but rather the base Torrent with a few added extras to lift it out of the Pontiac cellar,

While the Torrent suffers from inferior interior plastics, it nevertheless is good-looking inside and out.? (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

making this unit more representative of what the typical Torrent buyer will drive away in. Regardless of which floor the equipment elevator stops at, buyers will no doubt be pleased with the vehicles build quality. On the other hand, an excessive use of hard plastic on the doors, "A" pillars and the top of the dash feels low-rent for a front-wheel drive vehicle commanding almost $30K when all the goodies are added to its base price of $22,990.

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