The Pontiac Torrent is one of three derivatives of midsize SUV’s that share GM’s Theta platform. The Saturn VUE and Chevrolet Equinox are the other two. It has long been a tradition for General Motors to share platforms across various brands as a way to fully capitalize on the large investment associated with designing and bringing a new vehicle to market. Though this approach has the potential to produce mundane, cookie cutter designs, it is in my opinion the right way for car companies to assemble vehicles.

In today’s volatile market, this type of manufacturing not only helps keep costs in line, (something that GM has struggled with in recent years) it also ensures that new designs are introduced faster, with the result being additional choice. It also has the benefit of reducing the amount of natural resources required for building the vehicles of today. Like it or not, flexible assembly lines and shared platforms are here to stay.

What separates the Pontiac Torrent from its siblings is the excitement DNA that goes into every Pontiac vehicle. Though some may choose the simplistic design of the Saturn VUE as their favorite and still others may prefer the “cool” factor associated with the Chevrolet Equinox, the Pontiac Torrent has an air about it that the others just can’t seem to match.

Not only does it perform better in my opinion, the outward appear-ance gives it a stronger and more together feel than the other two SUV’s. Having spent quality time in each of these three vehicles, there is no doubt my money would be spent on the Torrent.

Powered by a 3.4L V6, the engine in the Pontiac Torrent produces 185 hp @ 5200 rpm and 210 lb.-ft of torque @ 3800 rpm.

Mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, driving the Torrent is, well… exciting!

The six cylinder engine responds quickly to each request for power and does so with no discernable howl or shriek, just a controlled growl letting you know it’s hard at work.

An independent MacPherson strut suspension means cornering ability is sharp and crisp, while the rear suspension stays on track by means of an independent 4-link with coil springs and trailing arm setup. This suspension arrangement is unique to the Pontiac Torrent, further distinguishing it as the handling champ when compared to the Saturn VUE and Chevrolet Equinox. Additionally, the suspension is firmer and sportier while the electronic power steering has been recalibrated to provide better driver feel.

The Pontiac Torrent is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. Brakes are front disc, rear drum with ABS is offered as standard equipment. With the front-wheel-drive model, traction control is available as an option.

Driving the Torrent is akin to driving many of the sporty four door sedans currently in the market. It handles winding roads with ease, powering through corners with the agility of a car, albeit a slightly top heavy one and stopping quickly when called on to do so.

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