This midsize crossover SUV makes a welcome return to the market, and Pontiac are not in a hurry to break a car which works very well indeed by making unnecessary changes. Much remains unchanged for the 2009 Pontiac Torrent this year then, but how does it compare against other SUV’s in its class?

Notably, the Torrent is built on top of the decent Cheverolet Equinox design and engineering specifications. GM has a history of reusing designs from its various subsidiaries, and it has done well to choose the Equinox as a starting point.

Base Torrent trims use a 185-hp 3.4-liter V6 engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The sports themed GXP variation has a 264-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a 6-speed automatic giving the GXP a maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. fairly standard for a midsize SUV, but this leaves the 185-hp engine falling a little short.

The 2009 Pontiac Torrent benefits from Pontiacs slightly more refined finishing for its interiors and parts, a fact that makes it a more complete package than its Equinox sister. Handing is somewhat superior also, with tighter suspension and a lower centre of gravity. This lends the Pontiac to road driving a little more than off-roading, a sentiment which is re-enforced by the basic trim’s slightly lop-sided power to weight ratio.