a good test for any car (or truck) is those massive inclines coming into the Rockies around Denver. And use the suicide braking paths if you need to.
My 75 Olds had the A/C compressor kick in when the defroster was on. I used it to get the car warmed up at a higher than normal idle. I haven't notice this with the Intrigue. It may be used to get the moisture out of the air. I would say it's normal.