Acceleration

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
5	5	5

Similar to Equinox, lively takeoffs, linear power delivery. Transmission kicks down quickly to provide decent passing punch. No opportunity to time Torrent, but test 2WD Equinox LT did 8.8 sec 0-60 mph; expect somewhat slower progress from slightly heavier AWD versions. Towing capacity is 3500 lb.

Fuel Economy

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
5	5	3.8

Test 2WD Torrent averaged 17.5 mpg in mostly city driving. Test AWD averaged 15.1 mpg in exclusively city driving.

Ride Quality

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
4	4	5.4

Long wheelbase smoothes out most bumps, though impacts harsher in Torrent than Equinox. No opportunity to test with standard 16-inch wheels.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
4	4	4.1

Steering light, vague on center, and some testers want more road feel. Pronounced body lean in turns. Despite unique suspension treatment, Torrent feels little sportier than Equinox. AWD assists grip in slippery conditions, but not meant for off-road use.

Quietness

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
5	5	5.2

Average for class. Wind rush unobtrusive, but rough pavement can generate noticeable tire roar. 17-inch tires slap, pound more on Torrent than Equinox.

Controls

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
6	7	6.3

Straightforward gauges readable in all light conditions. Controls within easy reach. Power-window switches grouped on center console rather than door panels; some testers found them difficult to reach. Gear-position indicators arrayed horizontally above console-mounted shift lever; finding intended gear can be confusing. Most interior materials appropriate for price level, but standard cabin still has cut-rate feel. Available Premium Package leather trim improves overall ambience.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
6	6	6.7

Ample head and leg room, but some testers complained of lumpy lumbar bolstering. SUV-height driving position provides good view of road. Thick front roof pillars can obscure visibility at stop signs, and visibility astern is hindered by thick 3rd and 4th pillars. Entry/exit a breeze.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
6	6	6.2

Good head room. Sliding rear seat easily adjusts to create generous leg room. Flat seat less comfortable than in some rivals. But clever 60/40 split design allows three child seats to fit, and two can remain in place while one seatback folds down.

Cargo Room

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
8	8	8.3

A strong point. Rear seats don't fold perfectly flat, but front-passenger seatback does to provide room for long objects. Most rivals have separate opening rear glass, but large hatch and low liftover makes for easy loading. Adjustable-height cargo shelf a bit flimsy, but provides many storage options. Front center armrest includes storage compartment, folds up between seatbacks, but space below would provide more utility if it contained a deep bin rather than a shallow tray.

Value within Class

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
6	6	5.7

Like Equinox, Torrent's sloppy steering and handling make it feel like a large, cumbersome SUV. But it has a carlike ride, plenty of utility, and prices that undercut those of most midsize rivals. A bit more mechanical finesse is all that is required for Torrent to pressure competitors such as the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander.

Total Score

2WD w/17-in. whls.	AWD w/Prem. Pkg., 17-in. whls.	Class Average
55	56	56.7

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		43
Average Score		56
High Score		66