Honda CR-V vs. Pontiac Torrent Review

Performance
Both the CR-V and the Pontiac Torrent are likely to feel a bit sluggish because of their high horsepower-to-weight ratio.

Handling
The Pontiac Torrent and the CR-V have approximately comparable tires. With its tighter turning circle, the Honda CR-V is very likely more agile than the Pontiac, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; however, keep in mind that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Honda CR-V's engine is substantially smaller than the Pontiac Torrent's. Keep in mind that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; on the other hand, smaller engines are often cheaper to fix. The Pontiac packs quite a wallop compared to the Honda CR-V in terms of torque, which is roughly equivalent to acceleration. The Honda CR-V could learn a lesson or two from the Pontiac Torrent in terms of torque.

Utility
There's no clear winner between the Honda and the Pontiac Torrent as far as hauling capacity. Neither the Honda CR-V nor the Pontiac has a marked advantage regarding seating capacity. Towing is substantially more the Pontiac Torrent's forte than it is the CR-V's.

Convenience
You will definitely have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Pontiac Torrent than with the Honda CR-V.

Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Pontiac Torrent's front cabin compared to the Honda CR-V. While the rear of the Pontiac Torrent provides a bit more head- and leg-room than the Honda, there frankly isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The Pontiac Torrent is a bit more ponderous than the Honda CR-V. The Honda CR-V's tank is roughly the same size as the Pontiac Torrent's, though the Pontiac Torrent's is a little more capacious. The Honda CR-V and the Pontiac Torrent compete for the same parking spaces. The CR-V's shorter wheelbase may produce a less-settled highway ride but a nimbler feel in daily traffic than the Pontiac Torrent.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Pontiac to the dealership as the Honda CR-V. The Pontiac Torrent pales in comparison to the Honda CR-V with respect to fuel economy. The Honda will save you money at the pump compared to the Pontiac Torrent. The Pontiac Torrent isn't much less costly than the CR-V as far as MSRP.

Overview
The Pontiac Torrent and the CR-V have the same basic after-sale protection.