And

Torrent's cargo space is large and features a flip-up picnic table. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

now that we're talking about interior accommodations, the rear seat slides back and forth up to 243 mm (9.6 inches) upon command, creating more legroom for taller passengers or increased cargo capacity if small kids are occupying the rear half of the SUV. What's more, the back seat also reclines for increased rear passenger comfort. This seating flexibility sets the Torrent apart from most of its rivals, as do its wide rear door openings, the most accommodating in the entry-level segment. And now that we're back to space optimization, Pontiac's new SUV incorporates 3,925 litres (138.6 cu-ft) of interior volume, which makes it larger inside than the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and other category sales leaders.

Also, a bevy of storage nooks and crannies come standard too, including a bin within the centre console for CDs plus odds-and-ends, a pop-down overhead sunglass holder, a coin tray, cupholders galore, plus an optional Cargo Storage System that integrates hidden stowage compartments under the cargo floor and within the walls between the wheel wells and rear liftgate. Like the HHR, hooks for grocery bags are included, plus a plastic (or more correctly a polycarbonate) shelf can be positioned up, down, out of the way or as a convenient table when meting out the hot chocolate during cold winter soccer games. The hot chocolate can remain warm if your "urn" can plug into a 12-volt power outlet - three come standard.

Back

Plenty of standard features, but why no rear disc brakes even available in top-line models? (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

to its creature comforts, leather seating surfaces are also available, but at a price, as is a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated driver and front passenger seat cushions, no matter whether you're purchasing fabric or leather trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a six-disc, in-dash CD/MP3 changer with a thump, thump inducing subwoofer, a power glass sunroof, OnStar (which also incorporates an upgraded hands-free voice recognition system), 17-inch alloy wheels, roof-rail side curtain airbags, and more.

As for the basic look and feel of the interior, it doesn't deviate much from the Equinox which is already a comfortable and fairly well put together cabin; as mentioned previously. The Torrent gets a few upscale features, such as chrome accents here and there, plus unique seat and trim fabrics, while either a dark gray (Ebony in Torrent-speak) or a two-toned dark gray and beige (Cashmere) motif enhances the SUV's visual appeal.

And now for the bad points I mentioned earlier. First and foremost are

Torrent's interior isn't all that different from the Equinox, but it's a nice place to while away the hours. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the brakes, but not only that no rear discs are available... ABS isn't standard either. Pontiac isn't alone in not offering standard antilock brakes, a $780 option, nor is it alone in making traction control extra - ABS is needed to make the traction control work. Most in this class feature standard side-airbags, mind you, a $580 option with the Torrent. And no stability control at all? While GM has promised to make its Stabilitrak system available on most vehicles sold in the U.S. and Canada by 2010, it should be standard on all SUVs now. The imports are starting to include their stability control systems as standard equipment on sport utility vehicles and crossovers, as are rival domestics. On a non-safety related note, Pontiac makes you pay an extra $290 for an MP3 compatible audio system (boo). Last but not least, being that GM, and particularly Pontiac is suffering in the sales charts, wouldn't a more enticing warranty be in order? Currently, Pontiac models only get a three-year, 60,000 km comprehensive and powertrain warranty, making the five-year, 100,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranties of the Koreans look mighty tempting, and Mitsubishi's 10-year, 160,000 km powertrain warranty a hands-down winner. Maybe GM has some insider studies that say extended warranty coverage isn't a big deal for its target market, I can't say, but wouldn't a longer warranty appeal to you?