2002 Pontiac Montana

Pontiac has something new for its minivan in 2002. Instead of the usual front-drive configuration, the latest Montana can be equipped with the transparent Versatrak all-wheel-drive system.


Naturally, that doesn't mean that AWD Montana owners should plan on scurrying into snowbanks and breezing through icy lanes with their minivans. Versatrak isn't going to turn a family-focused minivan into an off-road brawler. In ordinary driving, there's only a little evidence that an all-wheel-drive system is lurking below the vehicle floor. Still, having the system at hand—ready to go into action at all times, with no driver intervention—can provide an extra dose of confidence, whenever it's necessary to journey through slippery regions.

Visually, the '02 Montana has a few differences. Extended-wheelbase versions now offer a Thunder Sport appearance package, which includes 16-inch chrome wheels and two-tone leather seats.

All-wheel drive is nothing new. Chrysler's minivans have had it as an option on selected models for years, though it never became a hot item. Pontiac claims that the Versatrak system, which also is available on GM's car-based "crossover" SUVs—the Buick Rendezvous and Pontiac Aztek—is an improvement because it's so compact. The space-saving design coupled with the rear independent suspension allows a flat load floor without having to remove the third-row seat.


General Motors minivans could be fitted with a video entertainment system before, but the optional setup for 2002 exchanges its videocassette player for a DVD-based unit with a seven-inch video screen. Wireless headphones are included for the middle- and rear-seat passengers, so front-seat riders won't be affected by extraneous sounds. A wireless remote-control unit also is provided, along with jacks for video-game systems and camcorders.


Buyers of extended-wheelbase Montanas can decorate them with a new Thunder Sport appearance package. In addition to a rear spoiler—not the usual sort of accessory for a minivan, but Pontiac takes its sporty themes seriously—the option group includes 16-inch chrome wheels, a two-tone leather interior and a fully independent suspension. Special "Thunder" badging also is featured.