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Pontiac Torrent - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Pontiac Torrent ranks 17 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Pontiac Torrent, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Torrent is a competent but unexciting option in the compact SUV class. A platform-mate to the Chevrolet Equinox and Saturn VUE, it delivers a roomy interior and comfortable ride, but its driving dynamics don't live up to its sporty exterior.

The 2009 Torrent is virtually unchanged from the 2008 model. As one of the larger compact SUVs, it offers good value based on its affordable price and size alone. "A base Torrent makes some sense as a space-efficient people mover with attractive pricing," says Consumer Guide. "Overall refinement trails class leaders however, and vague steering and sloppy handling take all the fun out of driving." The Torrent's low fuel economy is another major downside in today's market, but reviewers like the little SUV's interior design and cargo space.

Recent bankruptcy and bailout rumors surrounding General Motors, Pontiac's parent company, may also scare some buyers away. In fact, GM has announced its plans to shutter Pontiac altogether. Buyers who like the Torrent should know that GM will continue to honor Pontiac warranties, and they should still be able to get the Torrent serviced at other GM dealerships. While the brand shutdown means that Torrents will start to depreciate faster than they have been, it also means that major discounts on soon-to-be-discontinued Pontiac models are likely.

The Torrent comes as a base model or the performance-oriented GXP trim, which has a more powerful engine and refined suspension system.

• "When it comes to solid construction, the 2009 Pontiac Torrent reaches above the domestic SUV norm while delivering ample passenger space in front and rear." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The Torrent is among the best of the current crop of compacts..." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram
• "Torrent is basically a nothing-fancy SUV for those who want car-like handling and cargo-toting convenience for something less than an arm and a leg." -- Sacramento Bee
• "For a vehicle meant to generate excitement, the Torrent accomplished the opposite among our judges, drawing criticism for its coarse V-6, unrefined automatic, sloppy handling, and numb steering, the last a result of more play at the helm than in the Queen Mary." -- Motor Trend

Torrent Performance - 7.0 (Good)

The 2009 Torrent is adequate enough as a daily driver, but don't expect great fuel economy or sporty performance. "Generally friendly and inviting, the quiet-running Torrent is easy to drive, stays on course easily and body lean through curves is less than for some of its competitors," says Kelley Blue Book. "All told, the Torrent feels a touch more tightly-crafted and capable than its GM mates." Keep in mind that the GXP model's performance-tuned suspension affects ride comfort. continue

Torrent Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

Looking remarkably similar to the VUE and Equinox, the Torrent's style is neither loved nor hated by critics. It has some sporty touches, but ultimately blends in with other compact SUVs. "If you're looking for an SUV that stands out from the pack, the Torrent's attractive shape barely pokes its head past the average mark," says Kelley Blue Book. continue

Torrent Interior - 7.6 (Good)

The 2009 Pontiac Torrent is especially roomy for a compact SUV and features lots of cargo capacity. "We've been in and out of most of the compact SUV competition recently, and just in terms of interior design and cargo versatility, the Torrent ranks as one of the best in its class," says The Car Connection. Several test drivers, however, find that the front seats lack comfortable back support and that interior quality is sub-par. continue

Torrent Safety - 8.3 (Very Good)

The 2009 Pontiac Torrent receives favorable scores in frontal crash tests, but doesn't fare as well in side crash tests. The Torrent's safety equipment includes electronic stability control and traction control. continue

Torrent Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Pontiac Torrent reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Pontiac Torrent comes with a basic warranty for three years or 36,000 miles. continue