Overview & Reviews

The Pontiac Vibe began life as a Toyota Matrix twin and ended it as the answer to a trivia question: "What is the only Pontiac model to be produced for the 2010 model year?" That's right -- while all other Pontiac models went the way of the dodo after GM's 2009 bankruptcy fiasco, the Vibe stuck around for a last hurrah. It's gone now, though, and that's a real shame. Of all the compact cars that wore Pontiac badges, the Vibe was by far the best.

Smart packaging is what made this small wagon desirable, as the Vibe combined clean styling, a roomy interior and exceptional utility under one affordably priced roof. A peppy powertrain was another welcome feature. The fact that the Vibe also got above-average fuel economy and had a solid reputation for reliability only added to its appeal among budget-minded consumers.

There were two generations of the Pontiac Vibe. Both are distinctive in appearance without looking overdone and resemble a sporty four-door hatchback rather than a frumpy station wagon. The Vibe offered a lot of functionality for not a lot of money, and Toyota-sourced parts and powertrains counted as another point in its favor. Despite Pontiac's demise, the Vibe should enjoy a long life on the used-car market.

Most Recent Pontiac Vibe

Produced for 2009-'10 only, the second-generation Pontiac Vibe is the corporate twin of the Toyota Matrix. What this means for pre-owned models is that the Vibe has reliable Toyota genes and will likely provide years of dependable service. The Vibe was treated to distinct exterior styling, however, as well as its own trim levels and options.

Pontiac sold this Vibe in base, AWD and GT trim levels. Base Vibe models were front-wheel-drive only and had a 1.8-liter 132-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a torsion-beam rear suspension. AWD models had -- you guessed it -- all-wheel drive, as well as an independent rear suspension and an upgraded 2.4-liter four good for 158 hp. The sport-themed, front-wheel-drive GT had the more powerful 2.4-liter engine along with the independent rear suspension.

All models came standard with a five-speed manual transmission except for the AWD model, which could only be equipped with a four-speed automatic. A five-speed automatic was optional on the GT, while the four-speed automatic could be added to base models. Base Vibes could also be equipped with the 2.4-liter engine at extra cost, in which case the five-speed automatic replaced the four-speed on the options list.

Inside, this Vibe featured simple and intuitive gauges and controls. Build quality was good, with most of the interior bits and pieces sourced from Toyota. Thanks to the Vibe's elevated roof line, there was plenty of room for passengers. In the safety department, the Vibe came standard with antilock disc brakes, OnStar, stability control and a full complement of airbags.

In reviews, we noted that acceleration was sluggish in the base Vibe but peppy otherwise, especially in the GT, which wasn't noticeably weighed down by the all-wheel-drive system. Expect fuel economy of nearly 30 mpg or more on the highway in all models. The four-speed automatic was rather anachronistic for a new model, though the five-speed automatic was a satisfactory unit. Handling was capable in all trims and even somewhat entertaining in GT models.

Used Pontiac Vibe Models

The first-generation Pontiac Vibe was sold from 2003-'08. It was available in base and GT trim levels. Base Vibe models had a 126-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and could be equipped with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD). Non-AWD models were equipped with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, both of which yielded adequate response in traffic and fuel economy in the low 30s. The AWD model was rated at 118 hp due to its different exhaust routing, and the four-speed automatic was mandatory. Acceleration was sluggish in the AWD Vibe, but it was still a useful option for buyers in harsh climates who needed a low-cost snow vehicle.

Aimed at a small niche of performance-minded consumers, the Vibe GT came with a Yamaha-designed high-revving 1.8-liter four-cylinder rated for 164 hp at a lofty 7,600 rpm. Sold in front-drive form with a six-speed manual transmission only, the GT was much quicker than the base Vibe, provided the engine was kept on boil. Ride and handling dynamics, however, were largely the same as in other Vibe models -- adequately comfortable and responsive for commuting purposes, but underwhelming from an enthusiast's perspective.

Other than the elimination of the GT and AWD models after 2007, the first-generation Pontiac Vibe received minimal changes. However, there are some equipment differences of note if you're shopping for a used one. A DVD-based navigation system was offered as an option from 2003-'05, but Pontiac discontinued it for 2006. Used-car shoppers interested in this feature will likely have difficulty locating models with it installed, as it was a rare selection when new. Also, while front seat-mounted side airbags were always optional on the first-generation Vibe, full-length side curtain airbags weren't available until the 2005 model year. That was also the first year that buyers could get stability control, but availability was limited to front-wheel-drive base Vibes equipped with the automatic transmission.

User Reviews:

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  Theres something about it ? - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By John Logan - August 24 - 5:06 am

  I always was attracted to the "look" of the Vibe and theres still something about it that attracts me. After one year and 23,400 miles I have to say its a good little car. The gas mileage is good, traveling with 2 adults and 2 kids is comfortable. Its nice to see a American car company offering a somewhat affordable common sense little car thats reliable and sporty as well as functional. Even though its a Toyota at heart, which certainly isnt a bad thing ! better looking than Matrix...

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  My wifes car - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By Marshall - August 21 - 10:43 pm

  We bought this Vibe new in June 04. Its great for getting around town. Mileage is disappointing, but the short drives, automatic, and high silouette come into play there. Quality of construction seems good except for thin exterior paint...what we have come to expect with clear coat finish I suppose.

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  Go Vibe! - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By NCA - August 17 - 10:00 am

  We bought the Vibe because we no longer needed a mini van; all the "children" were college age and had their own cars. We wanted something smaller but that could haul tons to colleges and apartments. The Vibe has fit the bill. Our Vibe also has worked well for camping trips.

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  Tough Little Work Car - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By jcmonroe - August 17 - 10:00 am

  It is a tough little work car that is cute and fun to drive. I am a big guy (6-1/2" & 245#) and I am totally comfortable with the leg and head room, even the back seat has more room than is typical in a compact car. It has adequate acceleration and very quick handling characteristics.

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  Good car - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By Bruce B. - August 16 - 2:30 am

  The Pontiac Vibe /Toyota is a very reliable and economical vehicle. Its a great substitute for a small SUV. Amazingly I average 38 mpg on mostly rural driving and 40.3 mpg on a few 200 mile trips. I was only expecting 33-36 mpg. A great commuter car.

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  Wheel Bearing Trouble - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By Jim - August 11 - 10:50 am

  We bought our AWD Vibe used in 2007. We have put approximately 45,000 miles on it since, due to our work travel. In July of this year (2008) we replaced both front wheel bearings which cost us over $500.00 and this month, (October) we have replaced both rear bearings which cost us over $700.00. Is this normal for AWD?

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  Its a winner for GM - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
  By nonstopjoe - August 9 - 7:23 pm

  Car is attractive, roomy, and has lots of pep - all with great mpg (expect 35 mpg highway or more). Sound system is average. For the money, you cant go wrong - and, basically, its a Toyota in disguise.

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  Great little car - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By Michael - August 4 - 6:50 pm

  The Vibe fits my family, including getting my 65" son being able to sit int he back seat. Ive hauled lumber, kayaks, and furniture---and with the front seat folded I can get almost anything inside the car. All this and Im averaging 30 mpg with a great handling, fun to drive car. The satellite radio was interesting for the free trial, but broadcast radio and CDs work well enough for me.

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  Econohustler - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By Peebles - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I got a bargain, $10,900 for the base vehicle with 400 miles. So far I have averaged 29 mpg combined hwy and city (900 miles on the odometer to date). While acceleration is not blazing, only sports cars beat me at traffic lights, and only if they are ready. The steering is crisp (no power) and gives good feedback (a touch torque steer). The ride is smoother than I expected, but I previously drove a truck :)

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  Pontiac Vibe 2004 - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By Shannon Causey - August 4 - 2:00 am

  My family purchased a 2004 Vibe in 10/03. We truly enjoy driving and riding in this vehicle. This little wagon has been fun to drive even though it is not a small coupe. The gas mileage has been great on the highway and in the city.