Pontiac Torrent First Drive
Introduction
The Torrent is Pontiac's rebadged Chevrolet Equinox. Both use an extended version of the Saturn Vue platform. In our tests of the Equinox, we found the rear seat to be quite roomy. It can move fore and aft to increase passenger or cargo room. But the quality of the interior materials is subpar, and the 3.4-liter V6 is coarse and returns poor fuel economy. The ride was acceptable, but handling was clumsy and the turning circle wide. Wind noise was pronounced. The Equinox's tip-up in the government rollover test is another negative.