TheCarConnection.com's editors drove the new Pontiac Torrent in order to provide you with an expert opinion. TheCarConnection.com then researched available road tests on the 2009 Pontiac Torrent to produce this conclusive review that will help you make the best decision.
Likes
Straightforward controls
Spacious interior
Good ride
Acceleration (GXP)
Dislikes
Handling and steering
Squeaks and groans
Interior materials
Fuel economy
GXP can top $35,000
Certain shortcomings keep the 2009 Pontiac Torrent from claiming the top spot in its segment, but its spacious cabin remains a strong attraction.
Styling is another potential reason that shoppers might be drawn to the 2009 Pontiac Torrent; its styling is somewhat slab-sided, and the stubby front end might not appeal to everyone, but there's no denying that it takes its own direction on the exterior.
The five-passenger Torrent features a standard 185-horsepower, 3.4-liter V-6, but it's the 264-hp, 3.6-liter DOHC V-6 in the GXP edition that really allows the Torrent to shine. The GXP package (available in front- and all-wheel drive) 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, a 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. The 2009 Pontiac Torrent GXP reaches 60 mph from zero in about 6.9 seconds with the front-drive version.
The base version of the 2009 Pontiac Torrent is considerably less inspiring, with numb, sluggish steering, though the base versions of the Torrent ride quite well. Despite that, occupants are likely to hear more creaks and groans than is typical for vehicles in this class. Needless to say, the Torrent is not a rugged off-road SUV.
The interior of the Pontiac Torrent is excellent in design but poor in execution. It's spacious, well organized, versatile, and family-friendly; there is no third-row seat, but the Torrent is extremely roomy, even in the backseat (it's comfortable enough for six-foot-tall passengers). The controls for the A/C system and radio are simple, effective rotary-style knobs that can be operated by feel without having to look at them as you drive. The dash layout is swell, too, though not as rich and finished-looking as some of GM's newer models such as the new Chevy Malibu and the absolutely gorgeous Buick Enclave. That's about where the compliments end; there's still a bit too much rhino-hard black plastic that detracts from the quality feel a $30,000 vehicle ought to convey in 2009, and assembly quality in the Torrents we've seen hasn't been perfect.
Base versions of the 2009 Pontiac Torrent come with a bit more than is expected from a small SUV, such as standard keyless entry and cruise control, plus a six-speaker sound system with iPod interface. The GXP also includes heated front seats, a performance-themed gauge cluster, and GXP-specific exterior and interior trim.
Upgrades for 2009 include XM Satellite Radio and head-curtain side-impact airbags with rollover-protection sensors, both of which are standard on all models. Bluetooth connectivity is now available as an option on the Pontiac Torrent.
The Bottom Line: While the GXP edition of 2009 Pontiac Torrent is the pick of the line, plenty of other vehicles in the segment are more refined and more modern.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2009 Pontiac Torrent, also consider:
- Saturn Vue
- Dodge Journey
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Hyundai Santa Fe
Reason Why:
The 2009 Pontiac Torrent delivers better handling than large truck-based SUVs, but it's bested by most of the vehicles in this crowded class. With the GXP, you'll pilot a vehicle that's a lot more agile than the typical lumbering SUV--it's happy to tackle corners at speeds that would make most of its more SUV-looking crossover competition seriously unhappy. However, the GXP is pricey and can easily top $35,000. The Hyundai Santa Fe is more conservative, but it has a tight, sturdy feel that TheCarConnection.com prefers to the Torrent. The Mitsubishi Outlander has a sportier feel overall, but road noise is plentiful and it's not very refined. Both the RAV4 and Outlander offer small third-row seats. The Honda CR-V is possibly the best overall package for buyers in this class; it has top-rated safety, great assembly quality, and surprisingly good performance from its four-cylinder engine. The 2009 Dodge Journey is yet another choice, and it's the best choice for those who want a really well-equipped vehicle. Highlights of the Journey's options include Sirius Backseat TV and a MyGig hard-drive entertainment system.
Buying Tip
If you're on a budget and are only considering the base model of the Torrent, take some competing models for a drive. TheCarConnection.com does not recommend even considering the base Torrent because there are far better compact SUVs on the market at similar prices. That said, the GXP is pricey, but if you can find a deal on it, you'll be happy.
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Review was originally published at TheCarConnection.com
© 2009 TheCarConnection.com