Pontiac Torrent vs. Mazda Tribute Review

Utility
There's no clear winner between the Pontiac Torrent and the Mazda Tribute when it comes to transporting cargo. The Pontiac Torrent and the Tribute can accommodate the same number of passengers. Towing is substantially more the Torrent's forte than it is the Mazda Tribute's.

Performance
Both the Torrent and the Mazda are likely to feel a tad slow because of their high horsepower-to-weight ratio.

Dimensions
Both the Torrent and the Mazda Tribute are likely to feel slightly slow because of their high horsepower-to-weight ratio. The Torrent's tank is about the same size as the Mazda Tribute's, though the Mazda Tribute's is somewhat bigger. The Mazda Tribute and the Pontiac Torrent compete for the same parking spaces. The Pontiac's longer wheelbase will likely result in a smoother, more stable ride; however, the Mazda Tribute may give a more maneuverable feel in daily traffic.

Convenience
You most definitely won't have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Torrent than with the Mazda Tribute, because both offer similar mileage ranges.

Cost
When it comes to fuel economy, the Mazda Tribute has the Pontiac Torrent beat. There honestly isn't much of a difference in gas mileage here, but if you must know, the Mazda Tribute is a tad more economical than the Pontiac. The Mazda Tribute isn't much less expensive than the Pontiac Torrent in terms of MSRP.

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Mazda Tribute is very likely more maneuverable than the Pontiac, 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 Mazda's engine is markedly smaller than the Pontiac Torrent's. Remember that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; however, smaller engines typically get better gas mileage. The Pontiac packs quite a wallop compared to the Mazda Tribute regarding torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Pontiac Torrent offers a bit more head room than the Mazda Tribute, there honestly isn't much of a difference. The Torrent provides more head- and leg-room to your passengers than the Mazda Tribute does.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Pontiac isn't quite as generous as the Mazda's.