Topic: Pontiac Torrent AWD System

[double d]

Does anyone know what type of AWD system the new Torrent will have and how it will work? Will it actually be worthwhile or something that is not that useful like the system on the CRV.

[eddy4]

If the Torrent is the same as the Equinox then the system will be a front driver with a torque split to the rear only when needed...there is no input from the driver other than gas and brakes.

[mdxtasy]

Does anyone know what type of AWD system the new Torrent will have and how it will work? Will it actually be worthwhile or something that is not that useful like the system on the CRV.

Why do you say the system in the CRV isn't useful?  If you're out bush-hunting or doing some serious off-roading, I'll agree with you that these on demand systems aren't that good for these applications.  However, a CRV isn't a big time off-roader to begin with.  I don't think a lot of these 4wd vehicles ever venture into the hills anyway.  If you are looking for traction on snowy streets, these systems work fine.  I doubt the Torrent will be designed to rock hop and run through streams.  Most carmakers match the drivetrain to what the car's main purpose will be. 

[smainville]

If you're planning on doing off-roading, you'll have to switch category.  ie. XTerra, Jeep

[double d]

I read somewhere that the AWD on the CRV, you cannot use it over 30 KPH. I don't know if this is true or not. I wasn't thinking that the Torrent would be a rock crawler, but would it pull you thru 12" of snow, or would you be able to use it doing 100 km on ice?

[mdxtasy]

but would it pull you thru 12" of snow, or would you be able to use it doing 100 km on ice?

With good snow tires, the CRV should get you going out of some deep snow.  As for going 100kph on ice.....if that's what you want to do, you've got bigger problems.  The CRV system does disengage after 30kph.  The system is designed to get you going from a standstill.  Not a robust system by any means.

[ovr50]

If you're going 100kph on ice, you'll have problems with any AWD or 4WD sysytem. These systems don't help you on ice, nothing really does except slowing down. AWD is to help you get going, not stopping. The system will definitely help you in snow. As Mdx says, a set of 4 good winter tires are your best defense against ice, that and careful driving.

[gord_boyd]

Black ice is a significant worry in a lot of high population areas but mostly non-urban.
Look at the BMW system of faster shifting between front and rear axle to understand improvements that are coming (but hopefully a lot cheaper).