As a space-efficient people mover with a very attractive price, the 2008 Pontiac Torrent fits the bill. This midsize crossover seats 5 and shares the same platform as the Chevrolet Equinox. For the 2008 model year, a sporty new GXP trim joins the base model Torrent, while the base model receives a retuned suspension to improve handling and ride quality. Both the Base and the GXP Torrent come standard with a V6 engine and can be configured with either front wheel or all-wheel drive.

A lengthy standard equipment list accompanies the Torrent Base model and includes 16 inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, a CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack, cruise control, full power accessories, OnStar, a trip computer and three 12-volt power points. The new performance oriented Torrent GXP replaces the 16-inch wheels with 18-inch wheels and adds unique body color hood and bumpers, dual exhaust outlets, remote start, privacy glass, a cockpit style instrument panel, heated front seats, power adjustable driver seat, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Individual options include a rear seat entertainment center a navigation system. The GXP also comes with more power and performance-tuned suspension and steering.

A 3.4 liter V6 engine powers the base model Torrent, which is rated at 185 horsepower and comes standard with a 5 speed automatic transmission. Though not very motivated, there is ample power for most situations. The Torrent GXP comes with a much more exciting 264 horsepower, 3.6 liter V6 engine mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission with manual over-ride capability. Like most car based vehicles in the midsize SUV and crossover vehicle categories, the Torrent is much better suited to paved roads than back woods excursions, and the Torrent GXP's especially low ground clearance only emphasizes this fact. However, properly equipped with the optional Tow Package, the Torrent can tow up to 3500 pounds. Fuel economy is decent for this category, and the same for front wheel and all wheel drive configurations at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the 3.4 liter engine and 16 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway for the more potent 3.6 liter.

Pontiac's strategy to design and manufacturer vehicles that will appeal more to this generations younger drivers is evident as one examines the 2008 Pontiac Torrent and its handsome, athletic exterior and equally sporty performance and handling. The materials used throughout the cabin won't win any high quality awards, but they are durable enough and the actual design is very user friendly and flexible with a modern appeal. A spacious interior with multiple storage compartments and an adjustable 60/40 split rear seat that moves up to 8 inches forward and backward allows for 35 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 69 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Flexible passenger and cargo configurations, and options like an MP3 capable audio system, navigation system and rear seat DVD entertainment are certainly appealing-as is the Torrents MSRP, which is one of the lowest in this class.