2009 Pontiac Torrent

• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
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Interior - What the Auto Press Says

The Torrent's spacious cabin is one of its strengths. However, complaints persist, including sub-par materials quality.

• "The quality of Torrent's interior trim is improved for 2008, though the overall tactile experience still trails that of most competitors. There are still more hard, shiny surfaces than those that are soft or padded." -- Consumer Guide
• "Despite its improved and likable nature, the 2008 Pontiac Torrent suffers from a few weaknesses. The interior has a few too many low-quality plastics, and the lack of a third-row seat, despite the debatable nature of that feature's usefulness, hurts the Torrent's standing among consumers seeking just-in-case utility." -- Edmunds
• "Even though it doesn't offer a third row of seating as the RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander do, the Torrent is one of the roomiest vehicles in its class." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Seating

The five-seat Torrent is very comfortable. In fact, there are very few complaints about seating comfort. And, unlike most SUVs, the Torrent is very easy to get into.

• "The Torrent is one of the easier SUVs to enter, and the rear seat provides ample leg space even in its farthest-forward position. The generously-supportive and comfortable seats, however, are nearly devoid of side bolstering." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The backseat is split 60/40, and the front passenger seat folds down. An adjustable rear seat yields greater legroom for backseat passengers when it's moved rearward and expands the cargo area when it's moved forward. The backseat also reclines." -- Cars.com
• "Plenty of headroom and legroom up front, and the seats offer fine support. Think front roof pillars block vision when cornering however, and rear sight lines are hindered by the sloping roof." -- Consumer Guide

Interior Features

The Torrent is well equipped for its affordable price. New standard features include head-curtain side-impact airbags and XM Satellite Radio. Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity is available through the new OnStar 8.0.

• "Gauges are large and easy to read. Major controls are logically placed and easy to find. Some testers find the center-console-mounted window switches an annoyance. The available navigation system does incorporate audio functions but doesn't complicate their use." -- Consumer Guide
• "Some controls are not as logically laid-out as they might be." -- Kelley Blue Book

Cargo

The Torrent features 35.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

• "While the seatbacks don't fold completely flat, they're no major hindrance either. The height-adjustable cargo shelf is handy but feels flimsy. Cabin storage consists of a smallish center console and shallow glovebox." -- Consumer Guide