Pontiac Montana adds All-Wheel Drive for 2002

By Vince Bodiford
Automotive Editor

Anticipating the widening needs of sport-ute owners wanting more flexibility and interior size, Pontiac has enhanced its offering in the highly competitive minivan arena with world-class features for 2002. The addition of all-wheel drive makes Montana equally at home in town or country, making the new Montana a serious contender not only among minivans, but sport-utes as well.

The Pontiac Montana takes a leap forward with the addition of GM's popular Versatrak all-wheel-drive system. Also new is the Gen III entertainment system, featuring a DVD system, a foldaway flat-screen monitor, and wireless remote. As before, Montana offers a choice of two different sizes: a 112-inch wheelbase and an extended 120-inch wheelbase, both with optional power-operated dual sliding doors. We tested the extended 120-inch wheelbase AWD model with the entertainment system on a road trip through Wyoming and Utah.

The addition of GM's advanced Versatrak system establishes the Pontiac Montana as capable all-weather minivan that still allows for a flat load floor in the rear, without removing the third-row seat. Versatrak is lightweight, quiet, efficient, and effective in low-traction situations. The all-wheel drive system directs power to the wheels with the best traction on demand when it's most needed. Performance on split-traction surfaces (one wheel track on dry pavement, the other on ice or snow) is notably superior to front-wheel drive alone. For economy on dry pavement, the system is primarily front-wheel drive.

Montana's hospitable interior offers versatility and functionality. A variety of seating options accommodate the active demands of today's families. Montana's "space on demand" features an available third-row stowable seat with convenience center, available with eight-passenger seating configuration on long-wheelbase models. In all, the Montana seats seven with four captain's chairs and a split-folding bench in the rear-seating row. Flip and fold second- and third-row seats are removable without tools.

Beyond seating capacity, we like minivans that make a point of providing equal accommodations for all occupants, and the Montana does this well. Middle-row passengers can select their own volume and medium (radio, CD, or cassette) from the rear radio controls, while front passengers select one of the other two program sources. Air conditioning is standard, and an optional package provides heating and air conditioning ducts for rear-seat passengers, along with auxiliary controls for selecting temperature and fan speed on long-wheelbase models. Auxiliary power outlets are provided in both the front passenger compartment and the rear cargo area. Cup holders, cubbies and lots of storage space are well placed and have ample room.

The 3.4-liter V6 that powers Montana is one of the most dependable engines, offering excellent fuel economy compared to other minivans. It produces plenty of power to get a fully loaded Montana moving with ease. A special Sport Performance and Handling package contains sport suspension, 15-inch cast aluminum wheels, touring performance tires, all-weather traction control, and automatic load leveling. This package, along with On-Star, are recommended additions.

HIGHS: Roomy and comfortable inside, sporty appearance outside, excellent engine. Comfortable touring vehicle with lots of cargo space, does not mind going out of town.

LOWS: The Thunder Sport appearance package looks great and should be standard. Sluggish but not excessive handling and body roll without Sport Handling package/AWD.

THE LAST WORD: A stylish and roomy alternative to a sport-ute, with all the benefits of all-wheel drive.

COMPARISON VEHICLES
Ford Windstar, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan, Nissan Quest, and Mazda MPV.

2002 PONTIAC MONTANA
Front engine, front-drive 8-passenger minivan
Built in Doraville, Georgia

NEW FOR 2002:
VersaTrak All-Wheel Drive, DVD entertainment system, Thunder Sport appearance package.

VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS:
3.4 liter 3400 OHV EFI V-6 gasoline engine
185 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm, 210 lbs. ft. torque
Four-speed automatic transmission
Four-wheel independent suspension (AWD)
Four-wheel power disc brakes w/ABS (AWD)
Rack & pinion steering
16-inch chrome aluminum wheels

EPA FUEL ECONOMY ESTIMATES
City MPG: 19
Highway MPG: 26

PRICE & WARRANTY: MSRP $36,410 nicely equipped AWD. 3 year, 36,000 mile limited warranty, roadside assistance.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Pontiac vehicles, and to locate a dealer near you, visit www.pontiac.com.

ENJOY THE DRIVE...More auto reviews online at www.theweekenddrive.com, e-mail comments to Vince Bodiford. Always drive safely, buckle-up, obey all highway laws and never drive impaired. Distribution Rights and Contents COPYRIGHT © 2001, The Weekend Drive ®, All Rights Reserved. Test vehicle brands and names used herein are Registered Trademarks of their manufacturer, all rights reserved, used by permission.