Saturday, April 12, 2008

Pontiac Torrent GXP













HIGH-PERFORMANCE GXP MODEL JOINS PONTIAC TORRENT LINEUPPontiac takes the SUV driving experience to an unexpected level of performance with the 2008 Torrent GXP, which offers new levels of performance, with a 264-horsepower (197 kW)* 3.6L V-6 and a host of new standard features, such as GM's OnStar safety and security system. Ride and handling characteristics have also been enhanced for the 2008 model.

Providing the power, performance and agility of a sports car with the capability of a sport-utility vehicle, the Torrent GXP joins Pontiac's growing GXP family that includes the Solstice GXP, the Grand Prix GXP and, also new for 2008, the G6 GXP.

Three all new metallic exterior finishes are available on the 2008 Torrent, including Deep Blue Metallic, Carbon Black Metallic and Teal Metallic.

Improved ride and handling performance

The base Torrent features an efficient 3.4-liter V-6 60-degree OHV V-6 engine generating 185 horsepower (138 kW)* at 5,200 rpm and 210 lb.-ft. of torque (285 Nm)* at 3,800 rpm. The engine is mated to an automatic five-speed transmission featuring multiple shift schedules that adapt to varied load conditions.

New for 2008, the base Torrent has an enhanced ride and handling package that includes stiffer shocks, hydraulic bushings and tuned spring rates.

Four-channel ABS brakes are standard on all models. The brakes consist of vented front discs and rear discs. The Torrent comes with standard 16-inch aluminum wheels and the Torrent GXP is equipped with chrome-clad 18-inch aluminum wheels. Seventeen-inch aluminum wheel combinations also are available on the base model. Traction control is standard on FWD vehicles equipped with the standard ABS.

The automatic all-wheel-drive system has no buttons to push. It engages automatically when wheel slip is detected. Both the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models provide almost eight inches (203 mm) of ground clearance and feature short front and rear overhangs for favorable off-road approach and departure angles.

Enhanced safety features

GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, OnStar safety and security system, tire pressure monitoring system, cruise control, and front and rear disc brakes with four-channel ABS are just a few of the standard features on the base and GXP models.

Electronic Trailer Sway Control is a new addition for the 2008 Torrent. This feature is integrated into the standard StabiliTrak system and detects the occurrence of trailer sway that may be caused by improper trailer weight balance or excessive vehicle speed. Upon detection of trailer sway, StabiliTrak will independently begin to apply brakes to assist the driver in stabilizing the vehicle. StabiliTrak activation also signals the driver to reduce vehicle speed, and if trailer sway continues, StabiliTrak will reduce engine torque to reduce the vehicle's speed manually.

StabiliTrak helps drivers keep control during abrupt maneuvers or in low-traction conditions by using a comprehensive series of sensors to measure acceleration, deceleration, steering angle and yaw rate. By monitoring these inputs, the system automatically controls the vehicle to help maintain the driver's intended path when a measurable deviation from the intended course is detected. The system retains control by regulating vehicle acceleration or applying the brakes at any wheel.

Standard on all 2008 Torrent models, OnStar's digital equipment includes enhanced hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar also includes OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics and the General Motors Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to participating 911 centers to help dispatch the appropriate live-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes quicker.

Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and available OnStar Hands-Free Calling and Turn-by-Turn Navigation. This service allows OnStar customers to talk to a live advisor, who in turn sends complete step-by-step directions to customers' vehicles through their OnStar system. This allows drivers to be led to their destination while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Torrent's enhanced occupant protection and rollover detection sensors for the head curtain side-impact air bags and Passenger Sensing System for the dual-stage frontal driver and passenger air bags help protect the driver and passengers. Other standard safety features include three-point safety belts for all seating positions and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child safety seat retention system, which can accommodate up to three child seats.

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