![]() ![]() Capable competitors like the PT Cruiser, Impreza, and Mazda 3 share many of the Vibe's attributes. Lesser models make do with a detuned version of the GT's engine - performance isn't as lively but most buyers will find the power band more user-friendly. The top-level GT version offers optional 17-inch wheels and tires for the performance-minded buyer in addition to its standard six-speed manual gearbox and peaky 170-hp, four-cylinder engine. Front-wheel drive is the standard layout, but all-wheel drive is available for negotiating the roads during inclement weather. The Vibe's sporty looks are backed up by a well-sorted suspension that delivers a comfortable ride around town and responsive handling. Red backlit gauges with chrome-trim rings highlight a sharp-looking instrument panel, while the rest of the interior features straightforward climate controls, a well-placed stereo for easy access and even a 115-volt outlet for plugging in electronic devices. Drivers sit higher in the Vibe than in most sedans but not so much as to make entry and exit a chore as in many SUVs. ![]() The front-passenger seat also folds flat to function as an impromptu work table for the driver or to aid in loading longer items. The rear seats fold completely flat to open up just over 54 cubic feet of cargo space, while the durable plastic load floor offers adjustable tie-down points via built-in floor tracks. Related to the Toyota Matrix, the Vibe is a jointly developed vehicle that shares most major components with its Japanese cousin.Īt just 171 inches long, the Pontiac Vibe is slightly shorter than your typical compact sedan, but its body is taller and wider, which gives it a more spacious and functional interior. It's geared toward young buyers who want a stylish, practical vehicle but don't need or want a gas-guzzling SUV. The Pontiac Vibe blends the handling of a small sedan with the practicality of a five-door hatchback. Or, alternatively: Not with a bang, but a whimper. Go for the prettier and nicer 2010 Chevrolet Malibu instead. G3 sales have been dismal, so they're likely still available from your local Buick-Pontiac-GMC dealer.Īs for the Pontiac G6 midsize sedan, it's available only to fleet buyers for 2010. Though the EPA rates it at 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway, we got more than 32 mpg in energetic mixed use. We recently drove a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo, and found it competent but hardly compelling. But the G3, based on the Chevrolet Aveo, got only 6 points out of 10 in our review. We also named the 2009 Kia Spectra5 (score: 6.4 of 10) and the 2009 Subaru Impreza hatchback (score: 8.2 of 10).ĬOMPARE: 2010 Pontiac Vibe vs 2009 Toyota Matrix vs 2009 Kia SpectraĪs for other departing Pontiacs, the 2009 Pontiac G3 is slightly greener than the Vibe, achieving EPA ratings of 27 miles per gallon city / 34 mpg highway. ![]() We'd point out that it competes with the identical-under-the-skin 2009 Toyota Matrix (score: also 8 of 10), which historically has higher resale value. GM suggests that the Vibe competes with the 2009 Dodge Caliber (score: 7 of 10) and the 2010 Mazda Mazda3 (score: 8.4 of 10).ĬOMPARE: 2010 Pontiac Vibe vs 2009 Dodge Caliber vs 2010 Mazda Mazda3
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