Though most of its drivers will probably be driving to the grocery store than to a glacier, the 2001 Pontiac Montana is a minivan trying to blend outdoor adventure with practicality, adopting SUV styling in an effort to broaden its customer base. As a regular (112-inch wheelbase) or extended (120-inch) minivan, it comes in a multitude of trim offerings depending on different packages and seat configurations you choose. With three rows of seating, various configurations of buckets, bench, captain's chairs, and 50/50 split-fold will seat anywhere from six to eight passengers and can be folded or removed for storage flexibility. All models are powered by a 3.4-liter, 185-hp V6 and 4-speed auto tran. New in the 2001 Montana is a flat-fold feature for the third row of seats in the extended minivan. The 2001 Montana also gets a new grille and a standard luggage rack. OnStar, remote entry, a CD player, and power windows are now standard across the line. Some options have been added as well. There is now a rear parking assist sensor. The biggest new option is a power driver's side sliding door. Previously the 2001 Montana came standard with dual sliding doors, and the extended minivan had a power passenger door standard. Now both doors can be operated remotely.
Trying to appeal to rebellious suburbanites, who hate the thought of owning a minivan, but appreciate its roominess and functionality, a Sport Package is offered, that adds a sports suspension, performance wheels, and traction control. ABS brakes, and dual front and side airbags are already standard. Many 2001 Montana owners like its styling that sets it apart from other minivans. Acceleration is good, as is the energetic engine, and overall gas mileage. Flexible cargo space is also a bonus, and the seats are generally comfortable except for the third row. Dash layout is convenient, handling is car-like, and the overall ride is quiet. Owners especially like the power sliding doors. The Montana has a lot of mechanical issues, however, and owners report logging many hours at the repair shop. The biggest problems stem from the transmission, the intake manifold, and the sliding door. Drivers also report that seat removal is difficult, even though the seats themselves are lightweight.