2006 Pontiac Torrent Review
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By New Car Test Drive

Overview

The all-new 2006 Pontiac Torrent is the biggest of the compact SUVs. Based on a car chassis, the Torrent offers a nice ride and good power.

The available leather seats are nice, the premium stereo sounds good, and the low dash offers a good view of the road ahead. Convenience features include a sliding and reclining back seat that offers extended leg room or more cargo space according to your needs, and a clever tray in back for cargo versatility.

Torrent is Pontiac's first true sport utility vehicle. It's built on the platform of the Chevy Equinox. Unlike most Pontiacs, Torrent's styling is restrained, clean and pleasing.

Model Lineup

The 2006 Pontiac Torrent comes with a choice of front-wheel drive ($22,400) or all-wheel drive ($24,300). Torrent is powered by GM's 3.4-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission. Only one trim level is offered, but with a variety of options.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, power windows, AM/FM/CD with six speakers, remote entry and automatic door locks, fog lamps, roof rails, daytime running lights, a rear window wiper, and 16-inch aluminum wheels.

Options include a Premium Package ($795) with leather interior and heated front seats. The Preferred Package ($1555) includes primarily a six-way power driver's seat, tinted glass, cruise control, crossbars for the roof rails, and leather-wrapped steering wheel to accent the cloth interior. The Sun and Sound Package ($1285) includes a sunroof and six-disc Pioneer sound system with seven speakers and a subwoofer and amplifier. Stand-alone options include XM Satellite Radio ($325) and 17-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires ($295).

Safety features that come standard include ABS, a rear child-seat latch system, and the mandated front airbags. Traction control comes standard on front-wheel-drive models; all-wheel-drive further enhances safety, of course. An optional Security Package ($1090) includes side curtain airbags and one year of Onstar service. Electronic stability control isn't available.