2009 Pontiac Montana SV6

NEW FOR 2009:

- No changes for 2009

For 2009, the Pontiac Montana SV6 minivan is unchanged.

Available only in Canada, the Montana SV6 is a sister vehicle to the Chevrolet Uplander, and like that model, is available in a regular- or long-wheelbase configuration. It uses a 3.9-litre V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Both wheelbase lengths are available in 1SA, 1SB and 1SC trim lines.

Features on the 1SA include 17-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, heated mirrors, privacy glass, variable intermittent wipers, fixed intermittent rear wiper, removable rear cargo organizer, floor mats, tilt wheel, power window with express driver's down, power swing-out rear quarter windows, cloth seats, second-row flip-and-fold bucket seats, removable 50/50 fold-flat third-row bench seat, CD/MP3 stereo, keyless entry, automatic headlamps, and OnStar. The long-wheelbase model includes an overhead rail system with storage bin that's optional on the regular wheelbase.

The 1SB adds black roof rack side rails, overhead rail system with storage bin, cruise control, and driver information centre.

The 1SC adds 17-inch alloy wheels, rear air conditioning, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, illuminated vanity mirrors, second-row captain's chairs, front- and second-row food management trays, six-way power driver's seat, XM satellite radio, remote starter, and front row seat side airbags.

Depending on the model, available options include second-row seat side airbags, power sliding doors, rear-seat DVD system, rear parking assist, leather seats, and trailer tow package.

The Pontiac Montana SV6 and its Chevrolet Uplander sibling are now the only full-size minivans on the market available in short-wheelbase configuration, which gives them an advantage with buyers who like a minivan's convenience but don't require so much interior space or such a large footprint. Handling is more car-like than most typical minivans, with a short nose more in keeping with an SUV. The 3.9-litre is powerful enough even when the vehicle is loaded. The two GM models are identical mechanically, but their standard and optional features vary, although neither offers curtain airbags.