PONTIAC Torrent 2005-2009 Photos, engines & full specs

GM tried to revive the Pontiac brand with the introduction of a new SUV on the market, the Torrent, which shared its platform with the Chevrolet Equinox and the European Opel Antara.

In the mid-2000s, the SUV market was rising, and Chevrolet knew it. Since it already had an impressive experience in building such vehicles, it tried to sell them worldwide under different brands. While in Europe it made the Chevrolet Captiva, in the U.S., it was the Equinox that gave its underpinnings to its Pontiac sibling.

Pontiac had its specific front fascia, which looked excellent on coupes such as Firebird or GTO, but on the Torrent, it wasn't exactly a match made in heaven. The clear cuts for the headlights and the rounded fog lights mounted in the bumper were not exactly on the same page. Yet, the ascending beltline and the lowered nose made the Torrent looks sporty enough for an SUV of its size.

The interior was the biggest achievement since it was available with seating for seven, with two jump seats in the trunk. Thus, customers could organize family trips or take more children from schools at once. Yet, the last row was not exactly suitable for grown-ups. There was almost no knee room, not to mention for legroom that was large enough to fit a size 11 (45) shoe. At the front, on the other hand, the Torrent distinguished itself due to the clear dashboard layout and the chromed surroundings for the dials.

Under the hood, GM offered the Torrent with a choice of two V6 engines: a 3.4-liter and a newer, modern, 3.6-liter unit. Both were available with either front or all-wheel drive and an automatic.