2007 Pontiac Torrent Review

The Torrent debuted in 2006 as a replacement for the failed Pontiac Aztec. Based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Equinox, the Torrent adds a new level of style and excitement. With a roomy interior and highly adjustable rear seat, the Torrent is designed to be both roomy and comfortable.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Pontiac Torrent is certainly a stylistic step up from the controversial Aztec. Its smooth styling makes it one of the best-looking SUVs on the market. An essential features for SUVs, side airbags, is not standard, and it so far has had terrible reliability. The Torrent has some good things going for it, but we feel Pontiac could do much better.

What’s New For 2007:

The Torrent has been upgraded from drum to disk brakes. Stability control, passenger sensors, and tire-pressure monitoring are now standard. A driver information that displays data such as fuel range and outside temperature center is now standard.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Torrent 3.5 stars for overall mechanical quality and 2 stars for powertrain quality. Problems affecting the Torrent include nonfunctional daytime running lamps, vehicle noise, difficult starting, inoperative OnStar, difficult seatbelt fastening, stuck brake lights, nonfunctional cruise control, water leaks, and numerous miscellaneous electrical problems. No recalls have been issued. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Torrent earned perfect government crash test ratings. The IIHS gave it a “Good” rating in frontal tests and “Marginal” in rear tests. Anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring, and stability and traction control come standard. Side airbags are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Stylish
+ Roomy
+ Comfortable

Cons
– Optional side airbags
– Poor value
– Poor reliability

Head-To-Head Competition:

The mechanically identical Chevrolet Equinox LS is virtually identical in price and features, but offers a bit more payload capacity. The Dodge Nitro SLT has side airbags and 25 more horsepower, but it lacks in payload capacity. The 2008 Ford Escape XLT costs $600 less and includes standard side airbags.

What Others Are Saying:

“In all, the Torrent offers plenty of utility but comes up a little short in other areas. For those who haven’t caught the underlying message, no we don’t see a Torrent of buyers storming the Pontiac dealership. It’s a shame, as the Torrent would have been a home run if it had the Vue’s V-6, retuned steering, and a wholehearted sportier feel. This isn’t going to be one of those must-have products GM sorely needs – or one as memorable as the Aztek – but don’t cross this one off the list so quickly.” – The Car Connection

“It’s very hard to write about a vehicle that doesn’t move you one way or the other. The 2006 Pontiac Torrent FWD Mid-Size SUV is one of those vehicles. I didn’t love it, I didn’t hate it – I didn’t feel any connection with it at all.” – About.com

“Despite its dynamic drawbacks, the Pontiac Torrent has just about enough vitality to make potential buyers forget about the brand’s recent history as a washed-up producer of has-beens, also-rans and rental cars. But not quite. Given the quality of the alternatives, the Torrent needed to be faster, sharper and more fuel efficient. If Pontiac doesn’t raise it’s game soon, the brand will be back in jeopardy, heading for a $100 slot in the category ‘DEAD CAR BRANDS.'” – The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2007 Pontiac Torrent at the Pontiac manufacturer web site.