Ever heard of the California International Auto Show? The Anaheim-

In the Californian sun or on snowy roads, the Torrent is at home. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

based event is not exactly revered to the same level as the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the annual auto show in Chicago or for that matter the Los Angeles auto show just down the road, but nevertheless its large surrounding population of car crazy Southern Californians attracted the biggest automaker in the business to debut two new models and announce another, late last year.

Top of the introductions was the upcoming 2006 Hummer H3, a model that is now making its presence known in better neighborhoods everywhere, followed by Pontiac's V8-powered Grand Prix GXP, giggle-inducing fun at an entry-level premium price point. As important as the H3 was to Hummer, the announcement of a new crossover SUV for Pontiac, the 2006 Torrent, was critical. Pontiac has been under fire recently, from automotive scribes and GM insiders alike, for failure to meet sales projections with some of its larger, more expensive sedan models, not to mention its poorly received Aztek crossover.

The

The Torrent is a handsome vehicle with monochromatic paint, a stylish front fascia and nice, simple alloy wheels. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Torrent, which effectually replaces the Aztek, appears to be nothing less than a slightly modified Chevy Equinox. This is no bad thing, however, as the Equinox delivers top-tier compact-to-midsize class driving-dynamics as well as tremendous interior room.

The Pontiac version receives the requisite bisected grille, a monochromatic paint scheme, sporty 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels, unique interior styling cues and upgraded materials, all of which make it look miles more attractive than many in this class. Even its plastics quality is pretty good, except for a few areas where it gets beat by some imported competitors. I was especially impressed with its switchgear, however, an area where GM comes close to leading the entry-level segment, oddly enough. I say oddly, because it was only a couple of years ago that I could never have imagined saying such a thing, and now its product planners, designers, engineers, bean counters, top-line executives, production workers and suppliers have pulled up their collective socks to deliver some truly impressive new vehicle interiors.

Where GM has made similar strides is in chassis

A Pontiac that feels European, but built in Canada. Go figure. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

architecture improvements, and the Torrent is no exception. Its suspension setup feels more car-like than most of its competitors, not in the way it rides over bumps and potholes, necessarily, but more so in how it maneuvers around them. Pontiac is one of GM's sportier brands, or at least it has traditionally been marketed towards customers who appreciate performance over practicality. The brand hasn't always delivered on its performance promises, mind you, with mildly revised versions of Chevrolet, Buick or Oldsmobile vehicles coming to mind. That Aztek was one of them, and to be fair, so is this Torrent. Fortunately for Pontiac, the Equinox is already a decent performer in the curves at least, so a reasonably large set of standard alloy rims here, plus a slightly more rigid suspension setup there, and it feels a little more European than mid-West, U.S.A. (or should I say Ingersoll, Ontario, where it is manufactured).



During my test week the Torrent didn't only handle corners well in

It may be FWD, but the Torrent has enough grip to deal with winter unless pushed into deep snow. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

dry conditions, while tracking confidently at higher speeds, but the front-wheel drive version even managed slippery West Coast snow and icy patches without any concern. My long-term front-wheel drive Sonata GLS V6 was turned back at the base of our local ski resort while transporting my son to Tiny Tots ski classes, forcing me to call Jennifer, my wife, for those of you who don't read the long-term updates, to see if she could swap vehicles with me. She just happened to be a few blocks away driving into the local shopping centre, and brought the Torrent up the road to meet me. We swapped child seats, and when I pulled up to the "judges" at the base of the hill, they had no trouble letting me by. Of course, they didn't ask whether or not the "SUV" was equipped with four-wheel drive, but just assumed it would be. It wasn't, although on the Torrent's side were better mud and snow rated all-season tires and optional traction control. While the Sonata, which doesn't have traction control in the trim level Hyundaigave me, might have experienced no difficulty getting up the mountain, the Torrent drove up without putting a wheel sideways.

At

Plenty of rear-seat room in the back of Torrent, for kids and adults alike. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the top, however, while tracking through slightly deeper snow in the parking lot, I almost got stuck. I purposely drove slowly through some of the white stuff while trying to get into an empty parking spot, and it quickly bogged down, the traction control system slipping and then completely shutting down power to the front wheels. Fortunately I was able to reverse out. I suppose, if it were my Torrent I'd have already opted for all-wheel drive and be done with it. No doubt this would have made a big difference.

Going down, the Torrent's optional ABS brakes, included on my tester, came in handy. I chose to go a little faster than would have otherwise been prudent, and then slammed on the brakes to test their capability. This is a good exercise for anyone to do, by the way, just so that you get a feel for how ABS brakes work and by so doing learn what to expect if an emergency arises. As anticipated, after multiple attempts to skid out of control, the brakes stopped me in my tracks; even turning the Torrent in the direction the wheels were pointed.

Only the front wheels feature disc brakes, incidentally, the rear's getting drums. And while I don't have anything against drums for trucks and 4x4s, as they can pose advantages, for a car-like crossover there's no reason to not even offer them. C'mon Pontiac, this is supposed to be a "performance" SUV. Why can't I get rear discs even when the price hedges close to $38K?

On that note I've got a few additional beefs about the Torrent, but

Instrumentation hints more at performance than at off-roading. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

just the same I haven't finished telling you about its many positive attributes yet either. I'll get to the negatives in a minute, after I tell you why it rides and handles so well. The Equinox features a traditional MacPherson strut front suspension matched up to an independent four-link, coil sprung rear setup. While not as off-road biased as the old Tracker, which used a solid rear axle, a configuration that's actually preferred by 4x4 purists, an independent suspension is much more enjoyable, and for that matter much safer when driving on pavement, where the Torrent, like most crossover-style SUVs, will spend the majority of its time.


Then again the Torrent is targeting "owners with active lifestyles",

Did I mention that it has nice wheels? (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

but just what an "active lifestyle" is I'm not entirely sure. My guess is it's something between contemplating whether or not to get up off the couch for another drink and bowl of pretzels, and hiking to the apex of Kilimanjaro before parasailing down during summer vacation. While the Torrent's optional all-wheel drive system is limited to minor excursions on gravel or snow-packed roads, it should still be ideal for most families, and like I mentioned earlier, should also allow someone like me to park in the snow without worrying about how I'm going to get back out.

Separating the Torrent driving experience from the Equinox is GM's FE2 Sport Suspension package, available across the line. Tuned for sportier dynamics than either the Equinox or base Torrent, it suits Pontiac's racy image well. The engine, however, does not.

It's more or less a compromise, and may even turn off performance-oriented buyers; yes, the same people Pontiac is trying to court, due to its rather lethargic 9.8 second run to 100 km/h, but nevertheless should be welcomed by fuel economy-minded consumers. It features

Console-mounted shifter is sportier than a column-mounted shifter, and the Torrent's switchgear is well-made. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the same Chinese-made 185-horsepower 3.4-litre V6 with 210 lb-ft of torque that comes standard in the Equinox, and once again can be had in both front- and all-wheel drive configurations. The engine output is hardly top-of-class, being a rather noisy overhead-valve lump, unless comparing it to other entry-level SUVs which get four-cylinder power, but it's mated to a five-speed automatic transmission which results in impressive 12.7 L/100 km city and 8.6 L/100 km highway gasoline consumption. Not bad for such a large 'ute.

That transmission is fairly smooth overall, but I noticed it didn't want to let go of third while climbing uphill, even when revving too high for optimal power, forcing me to lift way off the throttle in order to coax it into fourth gear. And what's more, I had to lift off for much longer than is usual when this problem occurs in other cars, slowing progress. It's a minor point, but an irritating one just the same. On the flat it didn't show this tendency, so most owners probably won't need to concern themselves if they're considering a Torrent for everyday city driving.

A couple of paragraphs ago I made mention to the Torrent's overall size as being large, but isn't it fighting it out with compact SUVs? Well, yes and no. With

Believe it or not, the Torrent is longer than Honda's Pilot! (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

regards to price it stacks up well against most compact sport utility models, from Ford's popular Escape to Honda's CR-V, but it can't be considered compact by any stretch of the imagination. Actually, the Torrent measures a substantial 4,795 mm (188.8 inches) in length with a healthy 2,857 mm (112.5 inch) long wheelbase, while its width spans 1,814 mm (71.4 inches). Believe it or not, this makes it slightly longer than the rather large Honda Pilot, by 21 mm (0.8 inches), while its wheelbase is some 157 mm (6.2 inches) longer. Just how Honda manages to squeeze in an additional 614 litres (21.7 cu-ft) of maximum cargo area I can't

These stylish fog lamps are standard. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

imagine, but it must be due to the Pilot's greater width, height and boxier shape. To the Torrent's credit, it looks a heck of a lot better than the Pilot, at least in my opinion, offers more space behind the rear seats when all are upright (although there are only five to the Pilot's seven), and delivers limo-like rear seat legroom. The Pilot is also a great deal more expensive than the Torrent, starting at nearly $40K, so it's an apples and oranges comparison, but one that serves as a reality check with regards to the Torrent's overall exterior dimensions.

On the subject of more expensive SUVs, the Torrent features a number of standard features that help give it a near-premium feel. These include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless access, a six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, fog lamps, electric power steering, dual-stage frontal airbags, and a flat-folding front passenger seatback ideal for transporting longer items that would otherwise be impossible to fit inside.


And

Torrent's cargo space is large and features a flip-up picnic table. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

now that we're talking about interior accommodations, the rear seat slides back and forth up to 243 mm (9.6 inches) upon command, creating more legroom for taller passengers or increased cargo capacity if small kids are occupying the rear half of the SUV. What's more, the back seat also reclines for increased rear passenger comfort. This seating flexibility sets the Torrent apart from most of its rivals, as do its wide rear door openings, the most accommodating in the entry-level segment. And now that we're back to space optimization, Pontiac's new SUV incorporates 3,925 litres (138.6 cu-ft) of interior volume, which makes it larger inside than the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and other category sales leaders.

Also, a bevy of storage nooks and crannies come standard too, including a bin within the centre console for CDs plus odds-and-ends, a pop-down overhead sunglass holder, a coin tray, cupholders galore, plus an optional Cargo Storage System that integrates hidden stowage compartments under the cargo floor and within the walls between the wheel wells and rear liftgate. Like the HHR, hooks for grocery bags are included, plus a plastic (or more correctly a polycarbonate) shelf can be positioned up, down, out of the way or as a convenient table when meting out the hot chocolate during cold winter soccer games. The hot chocolate can remain warm if your "urn" can plug into a 12-volt power outlet - three come standard.

Back

Plenty of standard features, but why no rear disc brakes even available in top-line models? (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

to its creature comforts, leather seating surfaces are also available, but at a price, as is a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated driver and front passenger seat cushions, no matter whether you're purchasing fabric or leather trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a six-disc, in-dash CD/MP3 changer with a thump, thump inducing subwoofer, a power glass sunroof, OnStar (which also incorporates an upgraded hands-free voice recognition system), 17-inch alloy wheels, roof-rail side curtain airbags, and more.

As for the basic look and feel of the interior, it doesn't deviate much from the Equinox which is already a comfortable and fairly well put together cabin; as mentioned previously. The Torrent gets a few upscale features, such as chrome accents here and there, plus unique seat and trim fabrics, while either a dark gray (Ebony in Torrent-speak) or a two-toned dark gray and beige (Cashmere) motif enhances the SUV's visual appeal.

And now for the bad points I mentioned earlier. First and foremost are

Torrent's interior isn't all that different from the Equinox, but it's a nice place to while away the hours. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the brakes, but not only that no rear discs are available... ABS isn't standard either. Pontiac isn't alone in not offering standard antilock brakes, a $780 option, nor is it alone in making traction control extra - ABS is needed to make the traction control work. Most in this class feature standard side-airbags, mind you, a $580 option with the Torrent. And no stability control at all? While GM has promised to make its Stabilitrak system available on most vehicles sold in the U.S. and Canada by 2010, it should be standard on all SUVs now. The imports are starting to include their stability control systems as standard equipment on sport utility vehicles and crossovers, as are rival domestics. On a non-safety related note, Pontiac makes you pay an extra $290 for an MP3 compatible audio system (boo). Last but not least, being that GM, and particularly Pontiac is suffering in the sales charts, wouldn't a more enticing warranty be in order? Currently, Pontiac models only get a three-year, 60,000 km comprehensiveand powertrain warranty, making the five-year, 100,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranties of the Koreans look mighty tempting, and Mitsubishi's 10-year, 160,000 km powertrain warranty a hands-down winner. Maybe GM has some insider studies that say extended warranty coverage isn't a big deal for its target market, I can't say, but wouldn't a longer warranty appeal to you?


Prospective warranty upgrade or not, when the Torrent arrived last fall

The Torrent: The finishing cap on a brand new lineup of Pontiacs. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

it put a finishing cap on what was an important year for Pontiac. Following up on the new G6 sedan, a model that raised the brand from below average to new, higher levels of interior quality and driving dynamics, 2005 also saw the compact Pursuit arrive on the scene, now dubbed the G5 Pursuit, by the way, and soon to take on the name of G5, losing the Pursuit moniker altogether. It was joined soon after by the V8-powered Grand Prix GXP, plus the G6 coupe and Solstice roadster - the latter the shining star of the Pontiac lineup. The G6 convertible arrives in showrooms soon, and word has it that the Montana minivan is to be dropped as part of GM's performance-oriented Pontiac makeover.

So, for a brand that many pundits have speculated may be on its last legs, GM has invested a great deal and it's starting to show. This investment has already resulted in increased sales, which without doubt have improved further now that the new Torrent has arrived. Improved sales should translate into enhanced profitability, and if you've read these pages on a regular basis you'll know that the General needs to fill its coffers more than most MNCs.

In the end, I think the Torrent's strongest suit is its attractive styling.

The Torrent is a logical step-up from a Vibe. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Like the Equinox it manages to appear sporty yet classy, a design theme that should appeal to young and mature buyers alike, plus most in between. Its impressive interior dimensions and flexible passenger and cargo arrangement also sets it apart, as does its relatively low fuel consumption. And lastly, GM does pretty well in J. D. Power and Associates many studies, as well as Consumer Reports reliability surveys, which makes the ownership experience more enjoyable while helping when it comes time to trade it in or sell, by increasing its resale value over some less respected brands.

So, is the Torrent exactly the right vehicle for Pontiac right now? It certainly is impressive in many ways, not to mention that it's a smart way for GM to make use of an existing architecture, giving Pontiac dealers a competitive SUV when they had nothing to lure in prospective crossover buyers prior to its existence. For loyal Pontiac buyers, its price point makes it an ideal step-up from the Vibe, while offering enough size and capability to attract midsize Pontiac owners, and possibly even midsize SUV buyers away from other makes. Overall, I like it.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $26,585 - $37,630
• Freight& PDI: $1,100
• Body Type: 5-door compact SUV
• Layout: front engine, FWD (opt AWD)
• Engine: 185-hp, 210 lb-ft of torque, 3.4L OHV V6
• Transmission: 5-spd auto
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
• Curb Weight: 1,663 kg (3,660 lb)
• Towing Capacity: 1,588 kg (3,500 lb)
• Ground Clearance: 203 mm (8.0 in)
• Cargo Volume (rear seats up/folded: 912 / 1,943 L (32.2 / 68.6 cu-ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 12.3 / 9.4 L/100km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive
• Direct Competitors: Buick Rendezvous, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape / Freestyle, Honda CR-V / Pilot, Hyundai Tucson / Santa Fe, Jeep Liberty / Grand Cherokee, Kia Sportage / Sorento, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander / Endeavor, Nissan X-Trail / Murano / Xterra, Saturn VUE, Subaru Forester / B9 Tribeca, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4 / Highlander
• Web Site: www.gmcanada.com