Appearances can be deceiving. But in the case of the 2006 Pontiac Montana SV6, this is a good thing. Though offering the roominess and storage versatility of a family minivan, it adopts SUV styling and handling to appeal to parents desperately trying to retain some kind of hip factor. The 2006 Montana SV6 narrows its trim offerings to one model, available in front-wheel or Versatrak all-wheel drive and powered by a 3.5-liter, 200-hp V6. New in 2006 is a more powerful 3.9-liter, 240-hp V6, which is optional only on the front-wheel drive model. Also new is a side impact airbag option for the second row in addition to the front row option, and a new sport package that bundles the 3.9 V6 with sport badging, an engine cooler, and chrome wheels.
Though its front end could easily be mistaken for an SUV, the 2006 Montana SV6 retains all the nice features found in minivans designed for transporting kids and cargo. A low step-in height makes access easy through standard dual sliding doors. Power doors are optional. OnStar, a DVD system, remote entry, cruise control, ABS brakes, and an interior rail system to which you can attach storage bins come standard. Second row seats can be removed and the third row 50/50 split seats fold flat to increase cargo space. Various packages add power seats, leather upholstery, remote start, garage opener, traction control, Stabilitrak, and the PhatNoise hard drive system that stores photos, music, and video games for the DVD player.
The 2006 Montana SV6 is extremely versatile, and the new engine adds much needed power to its hefty frame. Owners complain about the sluggish 3.5 V6. Other downsides include a noisy ride, poor acceleration, and a wide turn radius. The biggest problem seems to be lack of easy access to the third row. Highlights include the convenience of the dual sliding doors, the standard DVD system, good gas mileage, flexible storage options, the interior legroom, and the much more acceptably stylish SUV looks. And it's more affordable than comparably outfitted foreign minivans.