I consider it almost inexcusable in this day and age to market a newly introduced family vehicle bereft of antilock brakes, but

The absence of antilock braking eliminates the possibility of traction control, and even more important anti-roll electronic stability control. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

that's the case with the base, front-wheel drive Torrent. It should also be pointed out that the absence of antilock braking eliminates the possibility of traction control, and even more important anti-roll electronic stability control, both of which are co-dependent on antilock brakes. Realistically, the vast majority of Torrents rolling off GM's production line will be equipped with ABS and traction control, at least, given that the all-wheel drive Torrent is stocked with both of these systems as standard equipment, and, that most buyers of FWD editions will likely upgrade their purchase to include ABS.

They

A 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system is standard, integrated into a floating-style centre stack. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

won't be able to upgrade to rear disc brakes, mind you, and drums are only advantageous for SUVs that see more of the unbeaten path than the Torrent is likely to ever experience. Just why rear discs aren't offered is puzzling in a crossover segment that makes them standard more often than not.

Important safety items that are optional are front-to-rear, side head curtain airbags in place to supplement the dual stage frontal airbags that are standard fare. Although cruise control is optional on the base front-wheel drive Torrent, pleasantries such as power locks, power windows, keyless entry, theft deterrent and 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio is standard.