The 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP

"The Pontiac Torrent GXP"

 Only a year before my favorite automaker went extinct, Pontiac decided to jump into the SUV market with its midsize crossover, the Torrent. Based on the Chevy Equinox platform, the Torrent boasted Pontiac's unique styling, AWD, and a lesser-known option that increased the sportiness of the car by a huge degree; I'm talking about the GXP package.    

The GXP Line...

 Pontiac's line of GXP vehicles were the best the company had to offer during its final years. Equivalent to Chevy's Super Sport models, and Dodge's SRT models, the GXP family of cars offered higher-performance vehicles, usually based around a bigger, more-powerful engine. The Torrent GXP was no exception. Built around the new, revolutionary Camaro V6 motor, the Torrent GXP offered drivers a 264 bhp, 24 mpg powerplant, All-Wheel-Drive, aggressive styling, sporty, yet upper-class interior, and an attitude that said "Bring it on Honda."

Features: (You won't find these on a normal Torrent...)

• 264 bhp, 3.6 Liter DOHC, V6 engine
• 6-speed Automatic Transmission with Auto-Stick
• AWD with Stabilitrak Traction Control
• 24 Mpg highway
• Aggressive, sporty styling to include sculpted hood, larger cooling vents, and body color panels
• A 0-60 time in 6.9 seconds, faster than most SUV's and some sports cars
• 18 Inch chrome rims
• A performance suspension that enable the SUV to grip the road like a true sports car
• A throaty exhaust note that drivers will appreciate   
• A description of the GXP
• Another review of the GXP

   The Torrent GXP also features a redesigned interior, including red gauges, sporty leather seats, and piano black dash inserts.

Summary and Opinion:  

 That being said, I absolutely love this truck, and it's my personal choice for my next vehicle when I get back from Army Basic/Advanced Training in January. A great mix of muscle, sport, and economy, the Torrent GXP is an all around exceptional vehicle, doomed to be killed off way before its time. R.I.P. Pontiac.