Minivans are a symbol of suburban conformity. Pontiac is GM's symbol of performance. Throw the two together and Pontiac hoped to create a minivan that conjured up images of outdoor adventure and vigorous activity rather than grocery bags and soccer balls. They even gave their minivan an SUV-like name-- Montana. There were minor changes to the 2000 Pontiac Montana. The 3.4-liter, 185-hp V6 received some tweaks to improve fuel economy, reduce engine noise, and reduce emissions. Heated leather seats and reading lamps became an option, and the instrument panel was also slightly modified. Despite its SUV aspirations (foglights, two-tone exterior with body cladding) and obvious stylistic influences, the 2000 Montana is still a minivan and comes only with front-wheel drive.
Available in regular or extended versions, removable seats can be configured for up to eight passengers. Dual sliding doors are optional on regular minivans and standard on the extended, and a power passenger sliding door is optional. Other nice options include a video entertainment system (MontanaVision). Audio controls in the rear are standard and help appease sullen teenagers while keeping mom and dad's ears safe and sound. A pollen filter in the ventilation system and an air compressor in the cargo area are other innovative features.
Good handling, a peppy engine, and sporty looks help set the 2000 Montana apart from other minivans, say owners. The storage space and passenger room is functional, yet flexible. Most like the audio controls on the steering wheel, the power sliding door, and the air compressor. Complaints mention flimsy cupholders and numerous mechanical and electrical problems, with the main culprits being the power door, the intake manifold, and the transmission. Overall build quality has been a major disappointment.