PONTIAC’S TOTAL PERFORMANCE PORTFOLIO EXPANDS IN ’06 WITH SOLSTICE AND TORRENT
With a lineup of performance-oriented cars, crossover vehicles and, now, SUVs, Pontiac enters the 2006 model year with an array of new and revised products that appeal to everyone with a zest for driving and flair for style.
The ’06 lineup is headlined by the all-new Solstice. It’s pure sports car, with an elemental spirit derived from a unique body structure that was designed for responsive handling – and an easy-to-operate folding top that stows neatly behind the seats. The Solstice also features a powerful Ecotec 2.4L engine rated at 177 horsepower (132 kw) and is matched to a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission. The driver-oriented cockpit interior features motorcycle-inspired instruments.
Complementing Solstice is another of Pontiac ’s all-new products for 2006: the Torrent. It combines car-like agility with SUV capability and versatility. Torrent has a bold, European-inspired design and a multi-purpose interior that is configurable to countless uses, including a rear seat that adjusts fore and aft, as well as reclines. A 185-horsepower (138 kw) 3400 V-6 is standard and is backed by a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models are available.
Model year 2006 also greets new coupe and hardtop convertible models of the G6, along with two new engine options. The base-model four-cylinder 2.4L Ecotec engine is available on the sedan, while any G6 can be outfitted with the new, high-performance 3.9L.
“Solstice and Torrent are the newest expressions of performance at Pontiac ,” said John Larson, Buick-Pontiac-GMC general manager. “Solstice is pure sports car and is built for those who seek out winding roads, while the Torrent takes Pontiac performance in a new direction, offering spirited handling in a versatile, compact SUV.”
Here’s a brief look at everything else that is new in Pontiac ’s 2006 lineup:
G6
Two new body styles, including a sleek coupe and innovative hardtop convertible, are complemented by a new base four-cylinder sedan and GTP performance models of the sedan, coupe and convertible. The G6 GT and GTP convertible (available in Q1 2006) features an all-weather retractable hardtop and uncompromising seating for four. GTP models feature a new 3.9L V-6 rated at 240 horsepower (179 kw) for the sedan and coupe, and 227 horsepower (169 kw) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 Nm) of torque for the convertible. The 3.9L is matched with a standard four-speed automatic with manual shift control or an available six-speed manual transmission.
With its economical 2.4-liter Ecotec engine, the new G6 sedan four-cylinder is the entry point for the entire G6 lineup. The high-output engine is rated at 165 horsepower (123 kw) and delivers excellent fuel economy. For 2006, all G6 models are updated with GM Passenger Sensing System, a sporty, new three-spoke steering wheel, standard four-way driver seat with power height adjuster, available automatic climate control (standard on GTP) and a single antenna that combines OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.
Grand Prix
Grand Prix adds a new Special Edition package available for Grand Prix and Grand Prix GT models, including styling and new 17-inch wheels. The Special Edition models complement the performance of the V-8-powered Grand Prix GXP, which was introduced in mid-2005. The GXP comes with the new, 303-horsepower (226 kw) 5.3L V-8 with Displacement on Demand technology, which regulates between eight- and four-cylinder operation to enable up to 12 percent improved fuel economy in certain light-load driving situations.
All ’06 Grand Prix models are enhanced with an interior that reflects an increased attention to detail and commitment to comfort. These attributes bolster the traits of a family-friendly, midsize sedan that offers big car roominess with the performance and agility of a sports sedan. Grand Prix is the perfect blend of excitement and practicality.
GTO
The ’06 GTO is distinguished by revised taillamp styling, which now features a black background instead of red. Two new colors – Fusion Orange and Spice Red – are offered and there is also an available 18-inch wheel design with bright spokes further identifies ’06 models.
The 6.0-liter LS2 V-8 produces an impressive 400 horsepower (298 kw) and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (542 Nm), with twin hood scoops providing fresh air to the engine compartment. The Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission is standard, while a six-speed Tremec T56 manual transmission is optional. The powertrain is capable of propelling the GTO to 0-60 times of less than 5 seconds and 13-second quarter mile times.
Montana SV6
Montana SV6 is a crossover sport van for customers who want it all: spacious passenger room, multi-configurable interior, and a smooth, sedan-like ride all wrapped up in bold, SUV-like styling. Montana SV6 also offers segment-leading in-vehicle entertainment choices, including PhatNoise and its 40-gigabyte removable hard drive for storing and playing music, movies, video games and more.
Montana SV6 also is packed with safety features designed to protect occupants. Dual-stage frontal air bags are standard and, new for the 2006 model year, side-impact air bags are available for first- and second-row outboard passengers. Later in the model year, a new 3.9L V-6 becomes available.
Vibe
Refinements of comfort and convenience packages highlight the 2006 Pontiac Vibe, after styling updates and other enhancements were made for the ’05 model year. The ’06 Vibe offers Stealth Gray Metallic as a new exterior color choice and the contents of the diverse variety of available of convenience packages has been revised to reflect customer trends.
The 2006 Vibe has strong powertrains, including the standard dual-overhead cam 1.8-liter I-4 engine in base models, which produces 130 horsepower (97 kw) and 125 lb.-ft. of torque (170 Nm). The fuel-efficient engine meets 2007 Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II) standards. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is available. All-wheel drive Vibes come with the automatic transmission. The high-performance Vibe GT has a dual-overhead-cam 1.8-liter I-4 that produces 170 horsepower (127 kw) and 127 lb.-ft. of torque (175 Nm).
