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Pontiac Torrent vs. Jeep Wrangler Review

How the Pontiac Torrent stacks up against the Jeep Wrangler - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2009 Pontiac Torrent
Price Range: $24,820 - $31,415
2010 Jeep Wrangler
Price Range: $20,710 - $28,815
Pontiac Torrent vs. Jeep Wrangler Review

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs approximately the same to get the Torrent to the dealership as the Jeep. As far as fuel economy, the Pontiac is a bit better than the Jeep Wrangler, but not by much. As far as MSRP, the Wrangler costs significantly less than the Pontiac Torrent.

Utility
Drivers with frequent child-duty might favor the Pontiac Torrent over the Jeep. Towing is considerably more the Torrent's forte than it is the Jeep's.

Convenience
The Jeep Wrangler's fuel tank will need to be replenished more often than the unit in the Pontiac Torrent.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Jeep Wrangler offers a bit more head room than the Pontiac Torrent, there really isn't much of a difference. The ampler interior dimensions of the Pontiac Torrent make it considerably roomier for your passengers than the Jeep Wrangler.

Dimensions
The Jeep Wrangler's tank is roughly the same size as the Pontiac's, though the Torrent's is somewhat bigger. The Jeep fits in smaller parking spaces than the Torrent. The Torrent's longer wheelbase will likely result in a smoother, more stable ride; however, the Jeep Wrangler may give a more maneuverable feel in daily traffic.

Performance
With respect to horsepower, the Pontiac packs quite a wallop and will knock the Jeep Wrangler down a few rungs. On the flip side, remember that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Jeep Wrangler is definitely more maneuverable than the Pontiac Torrent, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; however, note that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Pontiac Torrent's engine is a little smaller than the Jeep Wrangler's, but not terribly so. The Pontiac Torrent could learn a lesson or two from the Jeep Wrangler regarding torque. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the Jeep Wrangler is significantly more powerful than the Pontiac Torrent.

Overview
The Pontiac Torrent and the Jeep Wrangler have the same basic after-sale protection.

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