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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  What a nice lil car... - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By ndrabble - July 9 - 10:33 pm

  In a nutshell, the Vibe has performed as well as I expected it to. Two years, 90K miles and no mechanical issues yet; however, the original Continental tires didnt make it pass 20K and the original paint job is the worst Ive ever experienced. But, the lil car is averaging about 34/35 mpg on the highway. The ride is not so bad, perhaps a lil loud and a lil slow on the initial pickup or for passing, but enough. Seats are firm and comfortable. And, Im sure I could mention lots of other things. Overall, I am pleased with it for what I bought it for: a comfortable, affordable, practical and easy on the gas lil commuting vehicle (I commute 150 a day)...

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  this is a keeper! - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By Shirley B - July 6 - 1:36 am

  Love this Vibe. The arrangement of the drivers seat is first time I have sat comfortably to drive. no leg fatigue. It handles wonderfully, and has plenty of pickup and go for me! I drive in excess of 65 miles each day, mostly freeway and my gas consumption is an average of 34 mpg. Mostly it is closer to 35mpg. I cant help but wonder why they are not advertised more. (but then, I found mine from just seeing an associates new purchase in the parking lot.) The only thing I might change is in the area of the arm rest console. It sets just a little too far back to be convenient for me. I am totally satisfied with this purchase. I plan to keep it a long time. Very impressive little vehicle

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  Great sporty little hatchback - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By Driver - July 5 - 9:03 pm

  We bought our 2003 Vibe Gt with 35,000 miles on it. This model was hard to find! Very few of the higher level car were out there. we have enjoyed it for over two years now, never having a problem. Lots of fun to drive, quick and tight. We added 18" wheels, sporty exhaust, and tint. I hope to drive this for at least thee to four more years. The only complaint is lack of good lumbar support in the drivers seat.

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  Everything you could want in a crossover - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By Dandy Don - July 5 - 12:33 pm

  We now have over 117,000 miles on our vibe and the only thing we have had to repair aside from normal maintenance is that the drivers side window came out of its track and I had to pay $40 to have them quickly go in and set it back up. I replaced the plugs at about 110,000 miles and they looked kinda dirty...amazing isnt it!? I use it for weekly hot dog cookouts at my work for 200 people buying 15 cases of pop, 50 packs of Hotdogs, 50 buns, cookies, chips etc. which all fit nicely inside while I average 30 MPG + combined hwy/cty. Good stereo (get the moon and tune pkg. with the sunroof and 6 speakers w/250 watts)and an amazing amount of room inside in something only the length of a Corrola.

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  Neat car - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By James - June 30 - 11:26 pm

  The only trouble we initially had were small rattles coming from the tailgate area. Turned out to be tailgate and hatch glass struts

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  Keeping it until the wheels fall off!! - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By bogey523 - June 28 - 3:16 pm

  I bought it new off the lot in 06. Now has 46K miles. Only problem was needed a new computer last week. Still under extended warranty for a few more months. Fuel economy great! Hit a deer in 07 and dented it up, got it fixed and back on the road. Since the trade in has gone through the basement, Im keeping her until the wheels fall off. Got a 1995 Isuzu Rodeo to drive in winter now. The Vibe didnt like the extremely rough winter we had this year, but who did?

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  Delivers On Target For Its Design! - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
  By pearlsport03 - June 28 - 9:16 am

  Ok, I bought this as a lease return with 15k. But its GM Certified. Now, review for what it is, not for what is not. It delivers on every aspect of its designed mission. Its an AWD AT SUV/5 door lift back, with comfortable seating for 4 (5 if you have kids). Great space to load stuff with seats down. Peppy, quiet, nice handling, not too stiff or spongy, and fuel economy is pretty darn good for an AWD. Its easy to get between 25 and 30 mpg normal driving. Sound system/CD/MP3/XM is very nice, and On Star is a plus. Mostly Toyota Matrix twin, so I know its gonna be durable and last (parts will always be around). AWD w/AT will use more gas than 2WD, but thats expected. 2 Thumbs Up!

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  Great Car - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By Z94 - June 27 - 10:00 am

  I have two Pontiac Vibes. I have a 2004 and a 2005. It all started when we got the 04 for my wife. I liked it so much I bought a 2005. The mileage is fantastic on both, They are both FWD only.

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By Joe S. - June 26 - 11:16 pm

  The Vibe was a replacement for a Forester Subaru strictly for economic reasons. The Forester was a bit thirsty especially on city driving. Have had the Vibe for over 4 years during which time the car proved to be a true work horse that demanded little if no maintenance at all. Still on original tires and brakes after 40K miles.

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  Miss my Vibe :( - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By AMF - June 21 - 6:20 pm

  I got my 5 speed Vibe with 50K on it, only reason I got it was because it was a stick and got good MPG. After driving it 2.5 years I fell in love with it. Got rid of it at 112K because my fiance is 63" and there just isnt enough room for more than us in the car. Driving mostly alone I loved how I could reach EVERYTHING in the car with no problem. Auto headlights were great but wish there was a way to turn them off certain times w/o parking break on. The previous owner had cut a cheap outdoor mat to fit in the rear which was a great idea, helped keep stuff in place. All the little compartments were great. Never broke down or needed repairs. If youre under 510" you should love this car!