A while back, I pondered the differences between the HHR SS, and the Equinox Sport / Pontiac Torrent GXP. Later today, my wife and I will be officially ending our wait for the HHR SS and will be ordering a Pontiac Torrent GXP. Here are the reasons why:

1. The Torrent GXP will have all wheel drive; something that will come in VERY handy in the Wisconsin winters.

2. The Torrent GXP comes with a 6 speed automatic transmission with the tap up tap down electronic manual shifting (a fun feature I had on my PT Cruiser GT).

3. The Torrent GXP offers more space. The Torrent GXP is bigger, but not too much bigger. It offers more interior space and cargo room, while being only about a foot longer in total length. Even with the added space / length, it still drives like a car (it's built on a car frame). The rear seat slides forward to increase the 35 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seat up, or can slide back to increase the already immense rear legroom.

4. Increased visibility on the Torrent GXP. It's not bad on the HHR, but it's better on the Torrent GXP.

5. I like the interior on the Torrent GXP better. Red glow gauges, heated cloth seats (I HATE leather), ample storage, etc. I also appreciate the fact that the Torrent GXP has a "sporty" interior as opposed to the "racing" interior on the HHR SS.

6. The Torrent GXP offers 3500 lbs. of towing capacity, the HHR SS offers none.

7. Even though the fuel economy will (probably) be slightly worse on the Torrent GXP, the fuel costs should not be very different. The Torrent GXP has a simple 3.6L (264 HP) V6 that runs on regular gas; the HHR SS 2.0L turbo will require premium gas.

8. I have nothing to base this on, but I truly question the long term reliability of the 2.0L turbo. I really wonder how such a powerful small engine is going to do going through at least 6 Wisconsin winters while being a year round daily driver...

9. Both cars have similar performance. Even with size and drive differences, the Torrent GXP (with automatic) will still scoot to 60 MPH in under 7 seconds.

10. I know this is at least a little lame, but I didn't like the HHR SS color choices. I LOVE the "Sonoma Red Metallic" offered on the Torrent GXP (shown below).

11. Most importantly, the Mrs. likes the Torrent GXP better.

Some pictures of the 2008 Torrent GXP:
http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/TorrentGXPfront.jpg
http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/TorrentGXPhood.jpg
http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/TorrentGXPrear.jpg
http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/TorrentGXPinterior.jpg

Good luck with it.

It looks like you made a fine choce, especially with AWD. I wish the HHR offered that like some platforms do.
The body styling looks fine enough and a bit more visability will be a good thing.
I too wish the HHR SS did not have so many interior compromises and the HUGE compromise of 25 HP LESS in the automatic version. .
Have fun with the Pontiac. I wonder if there will be a decent Pontiac Torrent forum for you out there?

It's the same as the Chevy Equinox and the Saturn Vue. I bought my wife a "Nox this year for the space, comfort, and the all wheel drive that will be needed during our wonderful snowy winters here in New England.

does it get 28 mpg or 31 on the highway?

REASON NO. 11 > REASONS 1 THRU 10... :lol:
Sounds like it will be a great ride. You sure came up with some good rationalizations for going with the Pontiac. The gas costs will prolly be even, I didn't realize that the V6 runs on regular. All those reasons will surely be more justfiable than the SS's coolness factor, which in the long run is about the only reason to pick the Chevy.

Will you still be lurking on the board? I think we've all enjoyed reading your comments. Good luck with the Torrent.

does it get 28 mpg or 31 on the highway?

Nope; but neither does the HHR SS. According to the Chevrolet website, the HHR SS (supposedly) gets 27 MPG (on PREMIUM gas) on the highway. The Torrent GXP will do 24 MPG on the highway with only REGULAR gas. As I said above, the cost difference in fuel shouldn't be significant because of the whole regular vs. premium gas situation. In my eyes, the fuel economy comparison should be between the HHR SS and the Torrent GXP, not the standard HHR. You can't really compare those to the standard HHR 2.2L and 2.4L engines - they're on different (performance) levels. If you were to compare cars based solely on fuel economy, you might as well compare these cars to the available hybrids out there. We all know that's not a fair comparison, because the performance / usability / safety of the cars are vastly different.

Will you still be lurking on the board? I think we've all enjoyed reading your comments. Good luck with the Torrent.

Thanks! I plan on it :) There are a lot of good people here (with cool rides)...

HAH! You're gonna love this... I'm about 10 minutes from leaving to order the Torrent GXP. I just got a phone call message from a local Chevrolet dealership that I asked some questions concerning the HHR SS a couple months ago. They were just notified that they are expecting some manual HHR SS's in soon...

UPDATE: I called them back (for you guys); they said late December / early January (which pretty much goes along with what we already know). "Soon"???

The gas costs will prolly be even, I didn't realize that the V6 runs on regular.
That is interesting, considering it's a VVT V6.

I was really looking forward to you getting an SS. I'm sure your reviews of the car as you took ownership and drove it would be good reading. So now you'll have to lettuce know how the Pontiac does. When will you be taking delivery?

Nice car! Apples and Oranges though IMHO, with AWD and a V6 and with a MSRP of over $ 30,000 US it is in a different price range (maybe) or size group of a SS.

Maybe you could get a SS 5 speed as well for the summer time? :lol:

Torrent looks like its trying to look too much like a BMW. Engineering wise, though, its a solid vehicle.

Love the look!!! AWD Rocks!!!

Torrent looks like its trying to look too much like a BMW. Engineering wise, though, its a solid vehicle.

Ever since Pontiac took on the double grille look quite a few years ago, a LOT of them have looked like BMW's. What's the old saying about imitation is the sincerest form of flattery? I think the Torrent looks pretty cool.

I looked at the Torrent and saw that the engine was made in China, I passed on the car. Next up for a recall?

:thumbsdow :thumbsdow :thumbsdow

I looked at the Torrent and saw that the engine was made in China, I passed on the car. Next up for a recall?

Say what? The Torrent engine is made in CHINA? :confused:
I for one would like to hear about that I had no idea.

Speaking of which did you hear about the latest toy recall from China?. :roflol:

http://www.chidesigners.com/hosting/ChineseRecall.jpg

I looked at the Torrent and saw that the engine was made in China, I passed on the car. Next up for a recall?
The 3.4L V6 in the base Equinox/Torrent is made in China.

That was one of the reasons I did not get an Equinox, the other being that I have issues regarding the reliability of GMs small V6s after having two go bad on me.

The 3.6L VVT V6 in the Equinox Sport/Torrent GXP is assembled in St. Catherines, Ontario.

When will you be taking delivery?

The contract states Dec. 1st at the latest. My wife and I are VERY excited. It's really fun to order a car because it will be EXACTLY the way you want it!

Ever since Pontiac took on the double grille look quite a few years ago, a LOT of them have looked like BMW's. What's the old saying about imitation is the sincerest form of flattery? I think the Torrent looks pretty cool.

Not sure when BWM started their split grill, but I do know Pontiac started theirs with the 1959 Bonneville.

I just thought of another reason: No slam on the HHR intended, but I like the fact that I don't think that the Torrent GXP is not a common car. I'm not going to pull up to a stop light and see my same car on each side of the intersection.

I just thought of another reason: No slam on the HHR intended, but I like the fact that I don't think that the Torrent GXP is not a common car. I'm not going to pull up to a stop light and see my same car on each side of the intersection.

True, but you will see plenty of it's "twins"......:lol:

The Equinox? Agreed. BUT, they look different enough.

even if you win on the first 10 questions the numbers 11 will definitly save you :lol: :lol:

I had no idea GM was building engines in China. Bad bad news. Very disappointing.

I had no idea GM was building engines in China. Bad bad news. Very disappointing.
I read somewhere that it was supposedly done because, at the time, they didn't have the extra capacity to make them at Tonawonda.

I can't see how the reduced labour costs offset the shipping costs to send them back to Canada for installation into the base Equinox and Torrents.

I can't see how the reduced labour costs offset the shipping costs to send them back to Canada for installation into the base Equinox and Torrents.

Two dollars an hour and "A slow boat from China." :D

More like 50 cents and hour, probably. ALTHOUGH, I would be more concerned with parts made by Chinese suppliers than with the actual assembly if the engine is assembled of parts from suppliers other than China.

As long as China is only doing the assembly, it might not be so bad. But given how we have all seen the way Chinese companies try to fudge on quality by substituting cheaper "ingredients" or otherwise violating the correct specifications, I would be leery of Chinese made parts.

I guess what I'm saying is an engine built with non-Chinese parts assembled in China might be more likely to be reliable than an engine built with Chinese sourced parts assembled in North America or Europe... mainly due to the big question mark regarding the durability of any Chinese made parts.

Not sure when BMW started their split grill...

how about, "Quite a long time ago..." This is a 1933 model.

http://www.bmwua.net/gallery/bmw3031933.jpg

how about, "Quite a long time ago..." This is a 1933 model.

http://www.bmwua.net/gallery/bmw3031933.jpg

Not sure I would call that coping then.....:lol:

As long as China is only doing the assembly, it might not be so bad. But given how we have all seen the way Chinese companies try to fudge on quality by substituting cheaper "ingredients" or otherwise violating the correct specifications, I would be leery of Chinese made parts.

I guess what I'm saying is an engine built with non-Chinese parts assembled in China might be more likely to be reliable than an engine built with Chinese sourced parts assembled in North America or Europe... mainly due to the big question mark regarding the durability of any Chinese made parts.

Well, their automotive parts might be crap, but they seem to do alright with shoes :lol:

Not sure I would call that coping then.....:lol:

:confused:

Hey misterjensen, how about an update on the Torrent GXP?
How much for the car? When are you getting it?
I'm already missing your posts, even if you were complaining about no new info... :lol:

Hey misterjensen, how about an update on the Torrent GXP?
How much for the car? When are you getting it?
I'm already missing your posts, even if you were complaining about no new info... :lol:

Hah! The Torrent GXP all wheel drive with EVERYTHING on it (except leather) has an MSRP of just over $32K; my price after incentives is about $29K. The contract delivery date is December 1st, but I'll probably have it before then. We're VERY excited ;)

The 3.4L V6 in the base Equinox/Torrent is made in China.

That was one of the reasons I did not get an Equinox, the other being that I have issues regarding the reliability of GMs small V6s after having two go bad on me.

The 3.6L VVT V6 in the Equinox Sport/Torrent GXP is assembled in St. Catherines, Ontario.


it's not better made by Ontarians :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: (i'm joking Black rose)

my bro in law has a torrent, and it's pretty nice. so yea i can see the gxp version of it.

December 1st?!?!?! does it have one of them "do not open till xmas" things on it!?!

well the commercial does say that it's faster than a bmw 5 series or sumthing like that right?

trick out your torrent gxp and then go challenge Jack Osbourne to a duel :thumb:

29k. I guess that's not bad for what you're getting although I've nver seen a Torrent up close and personal.

Did you shop dealers or pretty much stick with your local Chevy guy? Dec. 1 sounds like a long way away knowing you... :rof:

Well the commercial does say that it's faster than a bmw 5 series or sumthing like that right?

According to the brochure, it's faster than the 260 HP BMW X5 and the 290 HP Porsche Cayenne. It really does kick butt!

29k. I guess that's not bad for what you're getting although I've nver seen a Torrent up close and personal.

There's nothing fun about paying $29K for a car, but as you said, you have to look at what I'm all getting. (See my list in the first post.) For that price, we're getting EXACTLY what my wife I want. That's not easy to find / get...

According to the brochure, it's faster than the 260 HP BMW X5 and the 290 HP Porsche Cayenne. It really does kick butt!

It's not fair to compare a top end model (Torrent GXP) against the base model of any line. When I really have to cure that need for speed, I will just borrow my MIL's Porshe Cayenne Turbo S w/ 500+ Horses!!:nuts: :nuts:

Yes, I know the two vehicles aren't even close in comparison (esp price), but, if you're going to compare models, it's gotta be top end vs. top end.

Yes, I know the two vehicles aren't even close in comparison (esp price), but, if you're going to compare models, it's gotta be top end vs. top end.

Yea... I'd have to agree on that one. It's like comparing the best college football player to the worst NFL player.. :lol:

I don't know if I agree... performance vs. price is a reasonable comparison in my book... So, you don't think it would be reasonable to compare the standard HHR to the HHR SS because they are not both "top end" cars? The BMW and Porsche have similar horsepower, size, and shapes... but the Pontiac comes out on top in that performance comparison. There are even higher end BMW's and Porsche's available, for a TON more cash, and in that comparison the Pontiac is at the bottom of performance. Why can't that comparison be made? Is it because Pontiac doesn't have an "ultra" version? I dunno... better performance for thousands less, car vs. car... I fail to see the problem.

Isn't that what we all do? Car vs. car, performance vs. performance, best performance bang for the buck, etc.?

By the way, research has shown that my new Pontiac Torrent GXP outperforms the best models of Schwinn, Huffy, and my little sister's old top-level tricycle :p:

By the way, research has shown that my new Pontiac Torrent GXP outperforms the best models of Schwinn, Huffy, and my little sister's old top-level tricycle :p:
It all depends on the test parameters researched. I bet the Schwinn, etc. get better mileage :lol:

It all depends on the test parameters researched. I bet the Schwinn, etc. get better mileage :lol:

HAH! :D

I don't know if I agree... performance vs. price is a reasonable comparison in my book... So, you don't think it would be reasonable to compare the standard HHR to the HHR SS because they are not both "top end" cars? The BMW and Porsche have similar horsepower, size, and shapes... but the Pontiac comes out on top in that performance comparison. There are even higher end BMW's and Porsche's available, for a TON more cash, and in that comparison the Pontiac is at the bottom of performance. Why can't that comparison be made? Is it because Pontiac doesn't have an "ultra" version? I dunno... better performance for thousands less, car vs. car... I fail to see the problem.

Isn't that what we all do? Car vs. car, performance vs. performance, best performance bang for the buck, etc.?

By the way, research has shown that my new Pontiac Torrent GXP outperforms the best models of Schwinn, Huffy, and my little sister's old top-level tricycle :p:

Well, you do have a point in making a comparison in terms of Performance to Price ratio. But I still think that comparison should be made with the top-line of that model.. The Torrent GXP is the performance version of the Torrent, and should be compared to the performance version of the Cayenne or Beamer for a more accurate ratio. :thumb:

I would just like to add, though, that a Pontiac Torrent beating out even the baseline models of the Cayenne and BMW is still pretty amazing.

Well, you do have a point in making a comparison in terms of Performance to Price ratio. But I still think that comparison should be made with the top-line of that model.. The Torrent GXP is the performance version of the Torrent, and should be compared to the performance version of the Cayenne or Beamer for a more accurate ratio. :thumb:

I would just like to add, though, that a Pontiac Torrent beating out even the baseline models of the Cayenne and BMW is still pretty amazing.

We'll have to agree to disagree. When I look at cars, I take all of the models into my comparisons. I don't exclude cars based on where they fall in the manufacturers tiers. Haven't we all said to ourselves at one point or another something along the lines of "I could get a REALLY GREAT 27 inch TV or a pretty good 32 inch TV"? Of course we have. That's being a consumer and a buyer. In this case, I opted for the REALLY GREAT "lesser" model vs. the pretty good "better" model.

Don't forget, Pontiac was comparing the Torrent GXP V6 to the Porsche and BMW V6's. That seems like a fair comparison to me. The models you think the GXP should be compared to are V8's, one even having a turbo. (Pontiac doesn't even offer a V8 version.) In my book, that's not a fair comparison, but it is a comparison none the less.

I don't know about others, but I too would have expected even the base Porsche and BMW to crush the Pontiac Torrent GXP... WRONG :)

One thing GM does offer year after year is bang for your buck horsepower. That's why I bought a Z28 in 1998. You couldn't get better power for the money in a Mustang GT, for example that year, not even CLOSE. The General's cars may not be the highest quality in materials and workmanship but they do offer some kickbutt engines.

Hey guys! I just wanted to give you an update on my order. I got a call from the dealer yesterday; they told me that the order got picked up and I should have an estimated build / delivery date soon. I took another Torrent GXP (this time with AWD) for a ride the other night. All I can say is... WOW, what a ride and what acceleration! The real cool thing was that this was the first time I saw the interior at night. I don't know if all Pontiacs do this, but when you turn the key the dash does some sort of a light swirl thing, goes black, and then SLOWLY fades from blackness to a glowing red with white accents. It looks like a freekin' spy plane or something! I swear, I'm going to be sitting in my garage turning it on, turning it off, turning it on, turning it off. You know I've given my props to the HHR SS over the last few months, but seriously, go take a Pontiac Torrent GXP for a ride... you'll be VERY impressed. (There's $1500 cash back right now with a low APR too...). AWD, 3500 lbs. towing, 6 speed with tap shifting, 0-60 in 6.9 seconds, more room, ARMRESTS, etc... it's worth it! (I know, I'm the devil...)

Seriously; if you love the setup of the HHR or HHR SS, the Chevrolet Equinox Sport / Pontiac Torrent GXP is at least worth a look.

Seriously; if you love the setup of the HHR or HHR SS, the Chevrolet Equinox Sport / Pontiac Torrent GXP is at least worth a look.

Hope you will be happier than my neighbor with his nox. It is a big dissappoinment for them (can't come close to listed mileage). I personally don't like SUV's and don't consider the HHR one (it's a wagon, period). I never considered one, and would never buy one.

You have to be happy with your purchase. Good luck with it.

The red instrument panel is the main reason I have never had a Pontiac.

Hope you will be happier than my neighbor with his nox. It is a big dissappoinment for them (can't come close to listed mileage).

Your neighbor must have the standard Equinox. I agree with him; they are garbage. Only the sport versions (which just came out) measure up in my book :cool:

Your neighbor must have the standard Equinox. I agree with him; they are garbage. Only the sport versions (which just came out) measure up in my book :cool:

It's an LT, but don't know exactly what "model" he has. He says it bad when his 2500 Dodge crew with the Cummings gets better mileage. :lol:

The problem with the standard Equinox/Torrent is the engine/transmission combo.

The transmission is one of those that doesn't allow the vehicle to roll/coast like others do. One of the mods on GMI has one and complained about that a lot. I think he has since dumped it due to other more significant reliability issues.

It's an LT, but don't know exactly what "model" he has. He says it bad when his 2500 Dodge crew with the Cummings gets better mileage. :lol:

Yeah, that's a standard Equinox with the 3.4. The new Equinox Sport / Torrent GXP has the 3.6 (not to mention all of the other performance enhancements) and gets fuel economy not far south of the new HHR SS (24 MPG vs. 27 MPG highway).

Just an FYI; I got a call from the dealer about the build date. She'll be rollin' down the line the week of November 12th; I should have it by the end of November. Woo hoo!

By the way, here is one of the first reviews I have found of the 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP (and the test car is EXACTLY like what I ordered): http://www.carbuzzard.com/review.php?id=20531

looks like a fun ride. it's everything a guy from Wisconsin could love. a bit too BMWish-looking, I guess for my taste, if that's a bad thing.

Just an FYI; I got a call from the dealer about the build date. She'll be rollin' down the line the week of November 12th; I should have it by the end of November. Woo hoo!

By the way, here is one of the first reviews I have found of the 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP (and the test car is EXACTLY like what I ordered): http://www.carbuzzard.com/review.php?id=20531

This is the week my GXP is being built! It's pretty cool to think that a car I ordered is sitting in thousands of pieces and by the end of the week it will be put together. Cool! :D

The more I think about it, the better I feel about my decision to pass on the HHR SS. AWD and 3500 lbs towing (while still having 0-60 in 6.9 seconds acceleration) is going to come in handy in my particular situation here in Wisconsin.

This is the week my GXP is being built! It's pretty cool to think that a car I ordered is sitting in thousands of pieces and by the end of the week it will be put together. Cool! :D

The more I think about it, the better I feel about my decision to pass on the HHR SS. AWD and 3500 lbs towing (while still having 0-60 in 6.9 seconds acceleration) is going to come in handy in my particular situation here in Wisconsin.

It'll be snowing soon and I'll bet you'll be really happy you got the AWD right about then. Then again, wait til you see the first red HHR SS coming your way in traffic and you'll be thinking, "boy that looks cool..." Maybe even line up at a stop light with one.* :eek:

Your statement about the thousands of pieces reminded me of the movie Tranformers... those scenes where Optimus Prime changes into the new Camaro were really cool. I can just imagine your pile of parts just sitting there and suddenly they all fly together to form your Torrent GXP. Ready to do battle against the icy cold Wisconsin elements. :thumb:

http://tformers.net/i/a/movies/bumblebee.jpg
*MOTRV8D does not approve, condone, nor promote racing any motor vehicle on public roadways.

you are going to regret it! IMO

you are going to regret it! IMO

I SECOND THAT!:roll:

don't confuse the guy with facts. His mind's made up. :D

ALERT!!! ALERT!!!totally off topicALERT!!! ALERT!!!


Hey Motrv8d you said "those scenes where Optimus Prime changes into the new Camaro were really cool"?????? That was Bumblebee, Prime is the semi!:lol:

oh well, at least I had the right movie! :lol:
Im a little bit older guy so I don't know the Transformers like my nephew does. I'm sure he wouldn't have made that mistake!

According to my dealer, I should be getting the Torrent GXP by the end of next week. The best part is that GM just announced new incentives on the Torrent that will be available when I pick it up... $1500 cash back or 0% financing! Woo hoo! I'm telling you guys this car is a real value (not to mention it's recommended by consumer reports, which is not an easy recommendation to get)! One 0% financing please...

One more thing to consider: Whether you like it or not, the HHR and PT Cruiser are similar cars. The resale on these kinds of cars is TERRIBLE right now, and will only get worse as the market gets even more saturated. I'm sure many of you don't care about resale (since the HHR SS is exactly what you want), but it is a realistic consideration. There have been A LOT of discussions on this forum of how dealers are selling 2006 and 2007 HHR's for much less than the sticker, which has a HUGE effect on used HHR prices. Some dealers still have 2006's on the lots and can't give them away. That worries me about the HHR, and it worried me about the difficulty I had with selling my like new loaded 2003 PT Cruiser GT... I had it priced $3000 under book value (and under trade in value as well), and didn't get a single call. The dealership that took the trade has it featured on the lot (since it is immaculate and gorgeous) and has had to cut the price A LOT over the last few months...

In the end, the HHR SS will be a GREAT car, but there were too many factors that steered me away from it and into a car that had more "pros" than the HHR SS offered.

According to my dealer, I should be getting the Torrent GXP by the end of next week. The best part is that GM just announced new incentives on the Torrent that will be available when I pick it up... $1500 cash back or 0% financing! Woo hoo! I'm telling you guys this car is a real value (not to mention it's recommended by consumer reports, which is not an easy recommendation to get)! One 0% financing please...

One more thing to consider: Whether you like it or not, the HHR and PT Cruiser are similar cars. The resale on these kinds of cars is TERRIBLE right now, and will only get worse as the market gets even more saturated. I'm sure many of you don't care about resale (since the HHR SS is exactly what you want), but it is a realistic consideration. There have been A LOT of discussions on this forum of how dealers are selling 2006 and 2007 HHR's for much less than the sticker, which has a HUGE effect on used HHR prices. Some dealers still have 2006's on the lots and can't give them away. That worries me about the HHR, and it worried me about the difficulty I had with selling my like new loaded 2003 PT Cruiser GT... I had it priced $3000 under book value (and under trade in value as well), and didn't get a single call. The dealership that took the trade has it featured on the lot (since it is immaculate and gorgeous) and has had to cut the price A LOT over the last few months...

In the end, the HHR SS will be a GREAT car, but there were too many factors that steered me away from it and into a car that had more "pros" than the HHR SS offered.

Anyone else notice that when someone wants an HHR they praise it. But after not even buying one, they like to slam it. :lol:

Good luck with your look like every thing else soccer mom looking SUV. I bet I'll keep my HHR longer than you keep your SUV. :lol:

well misterjensen brings up a good point about the HHR's resale, it's prolly true... he has other good reasons to get his Torrent GXP, not the least of which is the AWD for Wisconsin winters.

I agree with solman98, tho, it does look like just another SUV...

http://www.autos.com.mx/Portals/0/Gallery/GMC/CHEVROLET/Chevy_Equinox_Sport2008/Chevrolet_Equinox_Sport_2008_lado.jpg

but I'll stick to the HHR SS, I don't need AWD so much here in So Cal! :lol:

, not the least of which is the AWD for Wisconsin winters.



I like it when people use winter as the reason to get AWD/4X4's. I live 12 years in the rockies (Spokane Wash/Great Falls MT). I drove a RWD Mustang the entire time. The wife drove a RWD Mazda GLC and then a RWD Aerostar.

This past March, we had to go to NY for a funeral. ANd it started to snow in Penn on the way up there. Was bout 10"s in NY when we got there. We were not in the HHR but the MPV, and had no issues at all. My BIL commented that he didn't see many trucks as he would have though (he is a bondfied southern redneck, 4x4 and all:lol: ). Wifes uncle told him that 4x4's in the snow were worse than any FWD car. Power to 4 wheels means 4 wheels are sliding on ice. :lol: David, (BIL) just could not understand that.

:p: Methinks the original poster gets paid a shiny new nickel each time he types the letters "the Torrent GXP."

Misterjensen

I think you made a wise choice. The Torrent GXP seems awfully nice. Also, as a former Wisconsin native now living in Minnesota I can say that all-wheel drive really helps out in snowy conditions. The Sonoma Red Metallic looks great and, if you tow, the 3500 lbs. of towing capacity far exceeds that of an HHR.

I love my HHR but it sounds like the Torrent GXP fits your needs better than an HHR. I hope you have a great experience with it.

Go Pack!!!!

PaulW

...Go Pack!!!!

PaulW
umm, Paul... you mean, "GO VIKES!!!"
You're in Minnesota man, ya gotta root for your homeboys!

MOTRV8D,

I was born and raised in Wisconsin. I'm here in Minnesota for employment reasons. I have to stick with the Packers and the great Brett Lorenzo Favre!!!

PaulW

it does look like just another SUV...

(Oops; that's an Equinox photo in your post.) To each his own ;) Apperance wise, I think it (at the very least) is a cut above "just another SUV". Hood scoops, dual chrome exhaust, GXP sports badging, lowered stance, sport interior... it's a bit more racy than your average SUV. The Torrent GXP (which is actually a CUV) does retain the usefulness and safety of an SUV, but anybody who has driven one (a GXP) will tell you that drives / rides like a sports sedan. Likewise, the HHR is technically an SUV / truck, but it certainly doesn't drive / ride like one. To be honest, the GXP is VERY similar to the HHR or PT Cruiser... except the GXP is on steroids :lol:

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/2008TorrentGXPfront.jpg

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/2008TorrentGXPdoor.jpg

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/2008TorrentGXPside.jpg

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/2008TorrentGXPrear.jpg

:p: Methinks the original poster gets paid a shiny new nickel each time he types the letters "the Torrent GXP."

the Torrent GXP
the Torrent GXP
the Torrent GXP
the Torrent GXP
the Torrent GXP

Finally! Now I can afford to retire!!! :nuts:

To each his own ;) Apperance wise, I think it (at the very least) is a cut above "just another SUV". Hood scoops, dual chrome exhaust, GXP sports badging, lowered stance, sport interior... it's a bit more racy than your average SUV...

One of the car mags had a good quote about putting hood scoops on the late and not-so-great 2006 GTO. It was something like "placing hood scoops on such an ordinary-looking car is like painting angry eyebrows on your Aunt Mabel. She looks a little meaner but she's still Aunt Mabel."

That about sums it up for me... but you're right, to each his own. You have a lot of good reasons to buy the GXP.

One of the car mags had a good quote about putting hood scoops on the late and not-so-great 2006 GTO. It was something like "placing hood scoops on such an ordinary-looking car is like painting angry eyebrows on your Aunt Mabel. She looks a little meaner but she's still Aunt Mabel."

I know what you're saying, but I like the Torrent GXP hood scoops a bit better because they are more subtle (they dip down rather than raise up).

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/TorrentGXPhood.jpg

http://www.carcentral.com/images/cars/images100/PONTIAC/GTO/2006/2CO.JPG

In my opinion, I would hardly call either of these cars "ordinary". 0-60 in 4.7 seconds on the GTO and 0-60 in 6.9 seconds on the Torrent utility vehicle is hardly ordinary. :D

I never said the GXP and GTO were "ordinary cars." I said "ordinary-looking." Hell, before the production stopped on it, the '06 GTO LS2 had 400HP, hardly ordinary. I think most ppl would agree with me that the GTO died because of ordinary styling, basically a company-car with a healthy V8. And a healthy price too, as I recall they started around $30k.

Bob Lutz said it best about the GTO:
“...it was arguably past its best-buy date in terms of styling. When we brought it in, that basic styling configuration in the market…for close to seven or eight years. If you bring in a car, it should be in the beginning of its design cycle.”

http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/01/vintage_cars/image/gto_2006.jpg
As a fan of the original Pontiac GTO's I dearly wanted to like the new GTO, but when it came out, I thought, "yawn."


Now, had they made the new GTO with a little more style, a little more attitude, who knows how many more they could have sold?

http://www.nitrousdirect.com/images/gto_nitrous_ls2.jpg

Should I get the extended warranty through GM or a less expensive vendor?

The dealership quoted me an official GM extended warranty for 6 years / 100,000 miles / $0 deductible for $2360. I can get a comparable extended warranty through a third party vendor (Warranty Direct) for $1939. The only difference I can find is that the third party vendor does not cover OnStar equipment. What do you think? Which one would you do and why? (Please don't debate why I should not get an extended warranty... my mind is already made up on this one.) Thanks :)

As a Service Manager I hate dealing with those aftermarket warranty guys. Wait until you get a transmission failure and find out that the company will only authorize a wrecking yard part or they shop around for the cheapest rebuilt they can find.......then they want to charge you "betterment".

You get what you pay for when buying this kind of coverage just like when you buy a vacuum cleaner or a refrigerator. You buy the cheapest.......you get the least.

Its worth the extra money to go with a GMPP warranty. Its practicly the same as factory warranty if you get the best package.

looks nice! Always have liked Pontiac

Enjoy!


Goose

Well...

:nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts:
IT'S HERE!!!
:nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts:

I can't pick it up today, but I'm going to go check it out. Hopefully I'll have some pics to share later! WOO HOO!!!

Its worth the extra money to go with a GMPP warranty. Its practicly the same as factory warranty if you get the best package.
I agree completely. I'd rather spend the extra dollars on GMPP...saves a lot of hassle for all parties involved in the long run.

I ended up getting the dealer within $299 of the third party vendor, so I went with the GM 6 year / 100,000 mile / $0 deductible plan. No headaches!!!

My wife can't make it over to the dealer before they close today. We should be picking it up first thing tomorrow. The good this is that there a BIG snow storm is on the way tomorrow afternoon, so I'll be ready for it with my new AWD. The bad thing is that I don't want to get a drop of water or speck of salt on my shiny new car!!! I guess that's what happens when you buy cars in December :(

so close... yet so far away.
that's what happens when you buy a new car in December in WISCONSIN! :lol:
Congrats, let's see those pics when you get the car.! :D

take the pics at the dealership to let see us spotless :lol:

IT'S HOME, AND IT JUST PAID FOR ITSELF!!! Long story short, my wife and I tried to beat the storm, and DIDN'T. As we were signing the paperwork, it began to snow... HARD. By the time we got out to the car, it was covered with a sheet of snow. It took us 35 minutes to get to the dealership, and two hours to get home! Get this: the reason I say it paid for itself was because I drifted the car onto the shoulder of the road in near white out conditions. Just as the car started to spin, the AWD sprung to life and righted the car INSTANTLY. All I can say is... WOW!!! I'll share more info soon, but here are some crappy pictures of my salty / snowy new GXP to tide you over until then. Don't worry, I'll clean it up ASAP!!! By the way, the exterior color is AMAZING... the picture doesn't do it justice.

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/100_0976.JPG

http://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/files/3/1/8/6/100_0973.JPG

Congratulations on:
1) Saving you and the wifey from harm and
2) Getting your new ride home safe & sound!
Those pics were pretty dark so I lighened them up some in photoshop. Lost some detail in the process but at least you can see the car...

http://www.chidesigners.com/hosting/Torrent_GXP.jpg
http://www.chidesigners.com/hosting/GXP_dash.jpg

Im sure the car looks FAB. Also looks like you made the right decision. That would have been a severe bummer to ditch your brand new car before you even got it home. Maybe your GXP wants to star in its own movie: The Fast & Furious: Wisconsin Drift :lol:
BTW pardon my ignorance, but what's the red ring around that tire? :confused:

BTW pardon my ignorance, but what's the red ring around that tire? :confused:

I think that is just markings that are used on new tires from either the tire manufacturer or the mounting / balancing at the factory. They will rub off.

Slick dash eh?

I think that is just markings that are used on new tires from either the tire manufacturer or the mounting / balancing at the factory. They will rub off...
yeah sure, but we know better... you ordered your GXP with the new Kumho Smoking Red tires, so that when you do burnouts, they billow the red smoke! :roflol:
http://blog.hemmings.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/08/IMG_1886.JPG
yeah the dash looks pretty cool with all those glowing red lights.

I think I'm converted over to Pontiac!!!

Welcome to the club ;)

Slick dash eh?
Yes and no. Looks cool, but those colours are the reason I have never bought a Pontiac. I have difficulty clearly seeing the instrument panel with the red and blue.

Any vehicle that has blue in it's instrument panel is an automatic no-go for me.

Lots of folks around here have really nice blue Christmas lights up...to me they are blue blobs of light - badly out of focus.

Yes and no. Looks cool, but those colours are the reason I have never bought a Pontiac. I have difficulty clearly seeing the instrument panel with the red and blue.

Any vehicle that has blue in it's instrument panel is an automatic no-go for me.

Lots of folks around here have really nice blue Christmas lights up...to me they are blue blobs of light - badly out of focus.

Oops; sorry... it's my camera. The dash is actually red an white. It's quite warm / striking in person :cool:

Have to say here that the whole idea was to NOT look like everything else out there in the first place. The new Torrent looks damned near exactly like every other SUV out there. Sure you can nit pick but that silhouette or the one like the Murano is everywhere. I'd hang back and wait for the second draft which is always where the engineers get out of the way and the public reaction takes hold.

As for winters, I'm in Saskatchewan which has road conditions ranging from black ice to black ice with 40mph winds polishing the hell out of it and as of this one, I can tell you ye`ol HHR with Nokians for skins neatly swerves around SUV's on their "all season's" spinning and sliding around like curling rocks. Great skins = great winter driving.

I'd hang back and wait for the second draft which is always where the engineers get out of the way and the public reaction takes hold.

Oh, you must mean like Subaru has done.:roll:

The Tribeca lost all of it's lines and now looks like any other minivan, or even the Impreza WRX. They took away the hood scoop and the rear wing and now it's nearly unidentifiable. Is there anything in their stable that looks different anymore?

If you like the looks of it now, get it! Whatever it may be.