2004 Pontiac Montana in Waterford, MI - $0

Pontiac is adding a new dimension to the mid-van segment with the introduction of the 2005 Montana SV6, a modern sport van with "want to drive" appeal: the bold styling of an SUV, the passenger room and interior versatility of a van with performance-oriented appearance and styling details.

Available in front-wheel or Versatrak all-wheel drive configurations, the new SV6 is powered by a responsive new 3.5L V-6 joined to an electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The SV6 is the next evolution from the previous generation Montana minivan and is built at the automaker's Doraville, Ga., manufacturing complex. Based on the Montana's extended wheelbase chassis, the SV6 is offered in 1SA and 1SB trim levels.

While handling and performance were always the strong suit of the previous Montana, the SV6 is even better. Smooth and solid at speed, the Montana SV6 is delightful transportation for people and cargo hauling.

The performance and ride qualities of the Pontiac sports van start with a robust unibody design with ladder-frame underbody construction. The four-wheel independent suspension features MacPherson struts, coil springs, L-shaped stamped lower control arms and aluminum knuckles in front; double-wishbone cast aluminum short- and long-arm control arms and cast aluminum cradle at the rear.

Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to an all-new interior that is tasteful, refined and upscale in look and feel. Displays, gauges and switchgear are well-ordered with a clean, modern look. A low step in height facilitates entry and exit. Seven-passenger seating is standard, with individual captain's chairs in both the first and second rows. The second and third-row seats are both foldable and removable for additional cargo room, while the third-row seat has a 50/50 split.

Other notable features include a front overhead console and standard overhead rail system, with snap-in accessory and storage modules for a less cluttered interior. The overhead lighting system is neatly integrated and is designed to accommodate the standard rear climate and audio controls and the rear-seat entertainment DVD system/ into a single unit.

The rear cargo area features an innovative compartment system that contains four storage compartments appropriately sized to hold items such as milk and orange juice containers, 12-packs of soda and grocery bags. The forward edge of the dividers is cut out to create a long, left-to-right compartment, capable of storing longer objects.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 121.1; overall length: 205.6; width: 72.0; height: 72.0 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.5L V6 -- 200 hp at 5,200 rpm and 220 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: electronically-controlled four-speed automatic w/overdrive.

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/24 hwy., (FWD); 17 city/22 hwy., (AWD)

Cargo capacity: 136.5 cu. ft.

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, power programmable door locks with lockout protection and delayed locking, remote keyless entry, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, automatic headlamp control, daytime running lights, OnStar communications system with one-year Safe & Sound service and traction control. The 1SB adds automatic leveling system, StabiliTrak stability control system and tire inflation kit.

Optional safety equipment includes front seat mounted side-impact airbags and remote control starter system. The available Premium Convenience Package adds rear parking sensors, alarm system and garage door opener.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Pontiac Montana SV6 sports van starts from $24,520 for the FWD 1SA up to $30,210 for the AWD 1SB. Destination charges add $715.

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