2005 Pontiac Montana: Road Test
Archived Review
2005 Pontiac Montana ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $26,040 -$30,420
- Invoice: $23,566 -$27,530
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Pontiac Montana
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2005 Pontiac Montana includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Pontiac Montana from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Pontiac Montana, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Pontiac Montana help you decide if a 2005 Pontiac Montana is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
Takeoffs can feel sluggish, but there's adequate pep for passing and merging. Available traction control works well. Optional AWD should return with replacement Montana SV6.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 |
Good for the class, averaging around 17 mpg in our tests, though one example managed just 15.7 in mostly city driving.
RIDE QUALITY
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.5 |
Standard suspension provides carlike smoothness and absorbency. We prefer it over the firmer tuning of the optional Sport Performance package, which makes for rather jittery going on cratered urban streets.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.4 |
Slightly sportier than the class norm, though rather vague steering feel and marked body lean by passenger-car standards. Sport Performance suspension improves agility, but isn't worth the cost in ride comfort. Braking controlled, progressive with ABS; no non-ABS models made available for test.
QUIETNESS
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.4 |
Engine moans when worked hard, is acceptably quiet otherwise. Door mirrors generate marked wind rush at highway speeds, and coarse-surface tire roar is evident around the side-door areas.
CONTROLS
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
Clear gauges, large and handy stereo controls, but climate panel is a stretch. Overburdened turn-signal stalk also handles wipers and cruise control. Interior materials reflect cost-conscious pricing; lightweight plastic dashboard trays and drawers tend to squeak and rattle.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.3 |
All models have comfortable front bucket seats. Occupants have ample space to move around, plus easy entry/exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.7 |
Adult-size space, but low-set seats dictate a less-than-comfortable knees-up posture, and accessing the 3rd row is a squeeze even for some kids.
CARGO ROOM
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 9.4 |
Generous even with without folding or removing any rear seats, which is easily enough done. Optional stowable 3rd seat doesn't hide away, but forms a usefully level deck with an included 4-inch-high convenience tray.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.8 |
We favor the Chrysler/Dodge minivans, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey, but Montana and Venture offer lots of clever features, drive nicely, and are priced right. Still, we'd wait for the updated SV6 and Uplander, which we hope are more competitive, especially for refinement and interior quality.
Total Score
| Ext. length 7 pass. w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 57 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Minivans
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
