The Montana started out as a trim option on the Trans Sport minivan in 1997 and 1998, but it would become its own model line in 1999. The first generation Montana, sold from 1999 to 2005, was built on the U platform from GM. It was sold as either a 3 door or 4 door model. The Montana was also sold with either a short or long wheelbase, depending on how much room the buyer wanted in the back. The only engine sold with this minivan was a 3.4 liter V6.

The second generation Montana, sold from 2005 to 2007 in the United States, could only be purchased as a 4 door model. The name was extended to the Montana SV6, which reflected the fact that the Montana was becoming more of a crossover between a minivan and an SUV.

The Montana is similar and almost a twin to the Chevrolet Uplander, Buick Terraza, and Saturn Relay. It is the 3rd lowest priced of those, with only the Saturn retailing for less.

The original Trans Sport Montana was not well received by the National Safety Board. Their crash test showed a nearly complete collapse of the occupant compartment in a front end collision.

There are plenty of these Pontiac Montanas hitting the used minivan market. If you would like to buy one, check the KBB value and also look over the selections on EBay.