English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Pontiac Montana: minivan, engines and what sets the trims apart
Pontiac Montana — the General Motors minivan built from 1999 to 2006 for families needing plenty of space. In this article, we look at the main trims, engines, and what to check when buying a used Montana.
Montana at a glance
Montana was Pontiac’s flagship minivan, offered in standard and long-wheelbase versions. It’s designed for families: a spacious interior, sliding doors, and a large boot.
It shares its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Venture, Oldsmobile Silhouette, and other General Motors minivans, so there’s plenty of parts commonality. It’s rare in Lithuania — usually found among imports from the USA or Canada.
Two generations
The first generation (from 1999) is the classic Montana with a 3.4-litre V6 engine. It was offered with a standard and long wheelbase, and in some markets, with all-wheel drive.
The second generation (around 2005–2006) was called the Montana SV6, featuring a more modern look and a 3.5-litre V6 engine. It’s slightly more comfortable but technically closer to newer General Motors minivans.
Engines and transmissions
The first-generation Montana typically had a 3.4-litre V6 (around 185 hp) with a 4-speed automatic transmission. This engine is considered fairly straightforward, but it requires careful maintenance.
The Montana SV6 offered a 3.5-litre V6 (around 200 hp) with an automatic transmission. All-wheel drive or other features vary by market, so check the vehicle’s documents for the exact trim.
What to check when buying a used Montana
Like many older minivans, the Montana can have issues with the engine and cooling system. Check for signs of oil and coolant leaks, and test if the engine is misfiring.
Check the sliding door mechanisms, window regulators, air conditioning, and electrical equipment. These parts often wear out, and you might need to order replacement parts from abroad.
If the car was imported from the USA or Canada, review the VIN history, recalls, and mileage. Inspect the underbody and wheel arches for rust, especially if the car was used in regions where salt is used on roads.
Trim levels
Version names vary by year and market; we list the main versions.
Montana (standartinė bazė)
First generationShorter wheelbase, easier to maneuver.
- Often — 3.4L V6
- Often — sliding doors on one or both sides
- Often — six or seven seats
Montana (ilgoji bazė)
First generationLonger version with more space.
- More room for luggage and passengers
- Often — additional interior features
- Often — 3.4L V6
Montana su visų ratų pavara
First generationOptional version for tougher conditions.
- Often — four-wheel drive
- Often — 3.4L V6
- Often — more kit
Montana SV6
Second generationNewer version with 3.5-litre V6.
- 3.5-litre V6 (around 200hp)
- More modern interior and trim
- Often — more safety kit
Montana versions compared
| Standartinė | Ilgoji bazė | Visų ratų | SV6 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For a smaller family | For a larger family | For more challenging journeys | For more modern use |
| Alloys (most often) | Standard or light alloy | Standard or light alloy | Standard or light alloy | Light alloy |
| Engine | 3.4 l V6 | 3.4 l V6 | 3.4 l V6 | 3.5 l V6 |
| Interior | Basic | Spacious | Often better equipped | More modern |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | € | €€ |
The Montana is ideal for those who need plenty of space for a modest price. If you're after more modern features, go for the SV6, but first, thoroughly check the mechanical condition.
Pros
- Spacious interior for the family
- Sliding doors are convenient for passengers
- Not expensive in the used market
- Shared technology with other GM minivans
Cons
- Rare in Lithuania, some parts sourced from abroad
- High fuel consumption
- Old technology, common age-related issues
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pontiac Montana sold in Europe?
Officially no, it's intended for the North American market. Those in Lithuania are usually imported from the USA or Canada.
How does the Montana differ from the Trans Sport?
The Montana is the later name for the same minivan line, first used in 1999. The first-generation Trans Sport had a different body design and plastic cladding.
Is it worth buying a Montana SV6?
The SV6 is more modern and has a more powerful 3.5L V6, but it comes at a higher price. Before buying, thoroughly check the technical condition and service history.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
