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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  The Mighty Vibe - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
  By CouldaHadaV8 - December 17 - 2:00 am

  This car is great! Weve had it for about 2 1/2 years and its running strong, even being driven by a teenager. We are pleased with the mileage, styling, comfort and power of this car.

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  Nice Car - of Course GM Quit Making Them - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
  By kc hillman - December 15 - 1:13 pm

  This bought used 2009 GT would be our second Vibe, also have a 2004 we bought new. The 2009 has the 2.4 engine which makes a lot of power for a car this size. The 5 speed automatic shifts flawlessly. The northeast U.S. has been getting bombarded with massive snow lately, but the Vibe hasnt let us down once! The 18 inch rims are quite sharp looking, the fit and finish appear to be up to par too. All in all a fine little vehicle!

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  2006 AWD - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By nhollins - December 14 - 1:23 am

  My new Vibe replaces a 12 year old Sunbird. I thought the 1.8l engine would be a headache on the freeway. Surprise for me ! The rpms are only at 3200 to go 130km/hr. The 4 valve/cylinder is the only way to go ,to make a sensor controlled engine function to its best. I had TrimLine install a hoodshield thats 24" wide ; 1/2 way up the hood. I had a 74 Corolla that ran troublefree for 10years. So as soon as i found out the Vibe had a Toyota motor , i ordered a new Vibe. What a happy newcar owner i am, considering this is the 1st vehicle bought without even a testdrive !

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  My Swiss Army Car - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By banjoflyer - December 8 - 2:00 am

  We call our Vibe a Swiss Army Car. It hauls big things, is fun to drive, parks easily, and is comfortable for four (five if #5 is smallish). I love the tie-downs in the back. I will be buying another one when Im ready but I still love this one. One thing, mine came without antilock brakes. I assume that they are all equipped with what I believe to be as much a necessity as seat belts now.

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  High utility / low gas. Good looking. - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
  By arge - December 6 - 10:36 pm

  MPG 30.5 mixed. Comfortable, spacious, nice “tall” driving stance, solid feeling, good 4 wheels disk brakes, fun-easy to drive. Electric steering wheel is somewhat different but ideal for every day operation. All of the important features (especially safety) are there. Well thought out interior (including 120V outlet) and exterior (plastic molding are in the right places and may better resist winter salt). The engine is not too responsive when driven softly but wakes up when RPM >2000. BTW this Toyota engine is used by the Lotus Exige sport car. A fifth gear would be nice on the highway. My wife loves it. I take very opportunity to drive it.

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  Love this car - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By Vibe Fan - December 5 - 5:00 pm

  I love love love this car. This is by far the best auto purchase I have ever made. My husband and I both have one and love it. It is very reliable and nice on the pocket book. It is a little small if you have small kids with lots of stuff.

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  Great Car!!! - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By Bonecruncher - December 5 - 2:16 am

  This car rocks!!!. I needed a car that was good for commuting through L.A. traffic 60 miles a day, but could also hold a wife, two kids, and a bunch of stuff, not to mention have a little zip and be fun to drive. This car was perfect. Great performance, gas mileage (avg. 26 mpg in traffic and hills of L.A.), versatility and looks. It handles like a go cart, but can still carry a ton of stuff inside. Very happy with my Vibe.

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  Great little car - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By MGG - December 3 - 10:00 am

  Love this car. Wasnt sure when I bought it but I and glad to report that it is a wonderful and reliable vehicle.

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  2nd Vibe - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By Lee Blanton - December 2 - 8:36 am

  We just bought our 2nd Vibe! The ride quality, solid feel, gas mileage and cargo capacity of my wifes Vibe just couldnt be beat. I drove a base front wheel drive but it just didnt have the same solid feel. We bought our first Vibe last year in April and have been very pleased. Great cars and fun to drive!

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  I just love my vibe - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By Greg Halford - November 20 - 7:16 am

  I am a private "eye" and I travel over a large portion of the Midwest. Since buying this car I have been continually surprised at the pep it has and the fuel economy. It just glides down the road like the other " Big Guys ". I have been impressed with its comfort, roadability, and its handling. Im a big guy and I fit in it like a glove. My only "gripe" would be the fact that there is a lot of plastic in the interior and it makes it more noisy than I would like. Other than that Im a really happy camper when it comes to the VIBE. !!!!