The Pontiac Torrent was a mid-size crossover SUV sold for the 2006 to 2009 model years as a replacement for the Aztek. It was a mildly restyled version of the first-generation Chevrolet Equinox with its own front and rear ends, firmer suspension and recalibrated steering.
Pontiac Torrent at a glance
| Maker | Pontiac, General Motors |
|---|---|
| Years | 2006–2009 |
| Replaced | Pontiac Aztek |
| Based on | Chevrolet Equinox, first generation |
| Engine, base | 3.4 L V6, 185 hp |
| Gearbox | five-speed Aisin AF33 automatic |
| Engine, GXP | 3.6 L DOHC V6, 264 hp |
| GXP gearbox | six-speed 6T70 automatic with manual shifting |
| GXP 0–60 mph | 6.9 seconds |
| GXP length | 188.8 in (4,796 mm) |
| Trim levels | Base, GT, GXP |
| Last built | 2 September 2009 |
Based on one source: the English Wikipedia article on the Torrent. The Commons candidates were Chevrolet Equinox photographs, so the record’s original picture is kept.
History of the Pontiac Torrent
A restyled Equinox
The Torrent replaced the Aztek and shared its basic body structure and mechanical parts with the first-generation Chevrolet Equinox, but with different front and rear ends to separate the two visually. Pontiac also modified the suspension to be firmer and sportier and recalibrated the electric power steering for a firmer, less artificial feel. The standard engine was the Equinox’s 3.4 litre V6 of 185 hp with a five-speed Aisin AF33 automatic, and the range followed Pontiac’s usual ladder of Base, GT and GXP trims.
The GXP
The GXP arrived in the autumn of 2007 as a 2008 model with a 3.6 litre DOHC V6 of 264 hp and a six-speed 6T70 automatic with manual tap up and down shifting, quoted at 6.9 seconds to 60 mph. It came with 18-inch five-spoke chrome wheels, twin bonnet scoops and a unique front and rear body kit, and sat an inch lower than other Torrents with 6.6 inches of ground clearance, helped by the absence of a roof rack. The GXP had a performance-tuned suspension and hydraulic power steering instead of the standard electric system, piano black and chrome interior trim, twin chrome exhaust tips and its own gauges. A navigation system, heated sport leather seats, a DVD entertainment system and a sunroof were optional. Pontiac advertised the GXP on television as having a horsepower advantage over the BMW X3, positioning the brand as a low-cost rival to BMW.
Podium Edition and the end
For 2008 the Torrent gained a Podium Edition trim for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, sold only in Canada. The model was discontinued after 2009, and the last Torrent was built on 2 September 2009 as GM wound down Pontiac. A new Buick SUV on the Theta platform had been planned as its replacement, but GM instead launched the GMC Terrain for 2010.
Design and features
- Equinox base: shared structure and mechanicals with its Chevrolet twin.
- Firmer chassis: sportier suspension and recalibrated electric steering.
- GXP power: a 3.6 litre V6 of 264 hp and a six-speed automatic.
- Lower stance: the GXP sat an inch lower and had no roof rack.
- Canadian special: the Podium Edition marked the Vancouver Olympics.
Pontiac Torrent versions
- Base: the entry trim with the 3.4 litre V6.
- GT: the mid-level trim.
- GXP (2008–09): the 264 hp performance version.
- Podium Edition (2008): the Canadian Olympic trim.
The Torrent replaced the Aztek and sat alongside the Vibe and G6. More Pontiacs are in the Pontiac collection.
Sources
- Pontiac Torrent, English Wikipedia: design, GXP, end of production
