2005 Pontiac Montana Overview

2005 Pontiac Montana Overview

Overall User Score

3⁄5

Based on 2 reviews

Is the Pontiac Montana the Lindsay Lohan of minivans? Genuinely versatile, it has suburban family appeal, yet is dressed up in a fun and sporty performance package. Ultimately, the Montana is saddled with more problems than you probably want to deal with. Sound familiar? You be the judge.

In 2006, the Montana will be replaced with the even more SUV-like Montana SV6, so the 2005 Montana prepares by drastically reducing its trim offerings. Gone is the regular wheelbase model. Now only an extended 120-inch-wheelbase minivan is offered. All-wheel drive is history. Sports packages remain, adding a stiffer suspension, rear spoiler, hood bulges, badging, and performance tires. The 3.4-liter, 185-hp V6 remains, along with the 4-speed automatic transmission. ABS is no longer standard. Bucket seats and/or captain's chairs can be moved or folded for flexibility, though some report that removal is difficult and cumbersome despite the seats being lightweight.  

Convenient dual sliding doors help with passenger and cargo loading, and a power option is available for both sides. Some owners have complained the power doors have a mind of their own, however, so step lively. Rear wipers, automatic climate control, cruise control, OnStar, power features, and a roof rack are all standard. MontanaVision DVD entertainment and rear audio controls keep kids happy and sated. A parking assist is another nice option.

2005 Montana drivers were always pleased with its engine performance and power, the sporty non-minivan look, and decent gas mileage for a minivan. Acceleration was responsive. The power door option was a big hit. On the downside, plastic parts look cheap and break easily. Seats do not fold completely into the floor. Mechanical (head gasket) and electrical (power door) problems persist. There are reports of excessive wind noise.