Multi-Flex Seating Adds Practicality
Pontiac has been undergoing a renaissance of late, redefining itself with the introduction of numerous un-Pontiac-like models such as
the midsize G6, the compact Pursuit, the sub-compact Wave, and most notably of all, the Solstice Roadster. But there's another new addition to the fleet that should at the very least be revered for being the replacement for the brand's dreadfully unappealing Aztek.
The Torrent is a new vehicle for Pontiac. It fills the compact to midsize SUV role in GM's excitement division, and, if you hadn't already figured out the resemblance, is kissin' cousin to Chevy's recently introduced Equinox. Like Chevy's version, Pontiac's Torrent is a peppy, V6-powered 4-door crossover-style SUV, available in both front- (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.
Like the Equinox, the Torrent will comfortably seat five adults. In fact I was
quite surprised by the generous proportions allotted to occupant comfort. Head and legroom in all seating positions is plentiful. Rear legroom, which is often cursed in smaller SUVs and wagons, can be extended in the Torrent thanks to a rear seat that slides fore and aft up to 20 cm (8 in). The 60/40 split rear seat also folds flat to provide a large unencumbered cargo area, the versatility of which is augmented by a flat-folding front passenger seat and a height adjustable rear shelf. When maximizing humans and cargo accommodations within finite spaces, flexibility is the key. Pontiac has done a competent job of engineering flexibility into the Torrent's seating arrangements, which they refer to as Multi-Flex, however unlike some rival SUVs such as the Honda Pilot, the Torrent doesn't offer a third row seat. Unfortunately for Pontiac, this will be a deal-breaker for some family purchasers.
Pontiac has been undergoing a renaissance of late, redefining itself with the introduction of numerous un-Pontiac-like models such as
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| At the very least the Torrent should be revered for being the replacement for the Pontiac's dreadfully unappealing Aztek. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
The Torrent is a new vehicle for Pontiac. It fills the compact to midsize SUV role in GM's excitement division, and, if you hadn't already figured out the resemblance, is kissin' cousin to Chevy's recently introduced Equinox. Like Chevy's version, Pontiac's Torrent is a peppy, V6-powered 4-door crossover-style SUV, available in both front- (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.
Like the Equinox, the Torrent will comfortably seat five adults. In fact I was
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| The Torrent's 60/40 split rear seat folds flat to provide a large unencumbered cargo area, the versatility of which is augmented by a flat-folding front passenger seat. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |