PONTIAC Montana Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Pontiac introduced the second generation of the Montana in 2005 and offered it with a choice of short or long-wheelbase, but its production ran for just about three years due to slow sales.

The MPV segment was highly contested by the Big Three of Detroit, and GM tried to get more attention to its products by offering the large minivan under different badges. Pontiac was supposed to be the sportier-looking version, even though customers didn't look for an aggressive stance in a minivan.

With a front fascia that was more suitable for a crossover vehicle, the Montana sported a bold, oversized bumper stretched from the hood down to the apron. In addition, it sported the Pontiac-specific grille with a wide slat in the middle and a pair of headlights placed in a retracted position. Its profile was typical for a minivan, with a tall greenhouse surrounded by wide windows. At the back, the only option was a wide tailgate flanked by the taillights placed way above the rear bumper. A set of SUV-inspired moldings around the wheel wells adorned the car's profile.

Inside, the carmaker installed a seven-seat cabin with available captain seats for the middle row and a bench for three in the back. The occupants could easily climb onboard the vehicle thanks to the wide sliding doors. But unfortunately, the plastic-covered dashboard and the bland colors used were not that appealing.

Under the hood, the Montana sported a 3.5-liter V6 that was accompanied by a 3.9-liter unit. Later on, Pontiac sold the MPV exclusively with the latter, more powerful powerplant.

In 1997, GM launched the second generation of the Pontiac Trans Sport and two years later it changed the name to Montana. It was a marketing twist to help the all-wheel-drive versions.

The Pontiac Montana was introduced on the European market as well, with the name Opel Sintra. While the American version was well received by the market, its sibling didn't have the same success. For the North American continent was a good choice, especially since it was offered in two wheel-bases options.

Unlike its predecessor, the Trans Sport didn't have the same sharp nose. It looked more conservative, with a tall front fascia and a big grille. The MPV was fitted as standard with a pair of sliding doors. There was an option for power-operated curbside door.

Seven-passenger seating was standard with two front buckets and two split-folding benches for the middle and rear seating rows. Another seven-passenger version came with four captains chairs. Eight-passenger seating was available with modular bucket seats in the middle row and a split-bench seat in the rear row. There was also a six-passenger version for the short-wheelbase model. A videotape and a CD player was available as an option, to offer in-car video entertainment for the back-seats.

The Montana featured a 3.4-liter V6 engine mated to a 4-speed auto. The front-wheel-drive was standard while the all-wheel-drive was offered as an option.