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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  Good Value Family Car - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By currycook - November 17 - 11:00 am

  We bought the Vibe because we were on a budget and wanted a family car that we could afford but also would be reliable. The Vibe has not dissappointed us. It has been very reliable and even fun to drive. I was attracted to it because of the Toyota engine and it has been excellent. Our experience so far has been very positive.

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  Great runabout - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By Remi - November 15 - 6:20 pm

  We switched from a 5th wheel to a motorhome, and needed a small car to tow behind. The Vibe combines the japanese reliability with american style. It is fun to drive and great on gaz compared to my GMC 2500. The interior is roomy and flexible - I can put my bikes inside, which I could not in the Toyota Yaris I considered. The seats are comfy and the controls are well placed. I bought a set of 15 Inch Corolla rims along 195/65-15 snow tires - they fit perfectly - and I am having fun in the snow. With the various rebates, the Vibe came in at a lower price than the Toyota Matrix. This 57 years old owner is fully satisfied with his new toy!

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  Hate to Sell - LOVED THIS CAR - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By vibe06 - November 15 - 10:00 am

  Best car ever owned. Unable to drive anymore - health issues. This VIBE is without a doubt everything anyone wants in a car: good mileage, sporty, hauls a great deal, safe, comfortable and simply put you cant kill it. Particularly great for college kids.

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  Refreshing Driver - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By Rick - November 1 - 10:26 am

  We bought the Vibe and went from the panhandle of FL to PA non stop, and at 6 and 275lbs and a bad back I knew I was inviting trouble. Not at all! Got out of the car and felt great. Turned around and drove back to FL and then to IL. Seat adjustments are great! 30 mpg at 75 mph and much better in town. Traded in a 97 Grand Prix and although I miss the HP of the V6 this is not bad in town. On the highway it needs additional spunk. When in cruise it continually wants to downshift to go over the overpasses, so I disengage the cruise and manually feed it the gas before I get to the hill. Lots of standard options. Good feel and versatile. We tinted the windows though.

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  My Tinker Toy - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By RobinDeVerna - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Love it.......Drove it from Ohio to Florida and it rode as good as my old Grand Marquis....and a lot cheaper on gas.

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  2003 VIBE - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By PatJack - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Used as a once a week commuter averaging 300 miles R/T,as well as in- town use. Great mileage,bulk load carrying, handling, comfort.

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  No Jive in my Vibe - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By SoCal Greg - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Fell in love with the Vibe AWD in the showroom. Bought it after a test drive and have had no regrets. Its a head turner and generates considerable comments from people in parking lots who want to know more about it. Forget the PT Cruiser - the Vibe is whats happening! Seats are a little uncomfortable on long trips but otherwise its ideal for us.

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  poor fuel economy - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By brian - October 28 - 12:33 pm

  This vehicle is poor in the snow.Fuel economy is 20-25 mpg max,dont try to pass a car at hwy speed on two lane rd or you might be dead!!! If you are looking for fuel economy and a good car in snowy areas this is not your your car.

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  Keep the Recall in Mind - 2006 Pontiac Vibe
  By bike_canoe2 - October 26 - 7:21 am

  I agree with Edumonds it is sluggish, but 32 mpg city is a definate advantage. The seating is comfortable, road noise is average. It is fun to drive but its not a sports car. NOW ABOUT THE RECALL - the PCM (performance control module) has issues, it will leave you stranded on the side of the road when it fails. The recall covers specific years, and specific engines so check yours at NHTSA.GOV and have it replaced if yours is recalled! The recall will cover replacing the PCM, labor, and towing to a GM dealer, but it does not cover a loaner vehicle. The dealer is very confident about the reliablity of this vehicle, this is the only issue they have with this vehicle.

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  Disappointing - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By Skylark - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Car is cute, but disappointing. The tires are the worst!! They had to be replaced already and are going bad again. The tread is wearing on the outside. Does not go in the snow. TOO MANY BLINDSPOTS!! Drivers seat is not comfortable. Defective battery!!