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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  Absolutely love my Vibe! - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By Kira - December 24 - 4:23 pm

  I now have 161,000 miles & still drive it everyday. Been to Florida & Wisconsin several times, never any problems. Great gas 34mpg hwy. Replaced battery, brakes, tires only. Hit a deer $4000 damage to front end, it stopped in a straight line, no-one injured except dead deer, was amazed. Only problem Ive had is the gas door broke off at hinges recently. I would buy this car again today if I could. So much storage space. I have slept comfortably overnight in this car many times because you can fold the seats down flat & make a bed on top. There was a recall on front side windows for loose bolt replacement, work completed for free, no problems since. No recall on gas door yet,I reported it.

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  Nice Little American Rice Burner - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By Iroc1 - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought the Vibe solely because it is a re-badged Toyota Matrix, and it has not let me down. The gas mileage average is about 20/26 (city/hwy)on 93 octane (even though the manual recommends 87, I get better mileage on 93). The ride quality is comfortable, especially on the highway, but There are minor creaks and rattles emanating from the rear of the car when driving over potholes or expansion joints. The engine is a bit sluggish, for my taste, but a K & N air filter and a cool air scoop have added some welcome ponies to my stable (I couldnt get the GT because Pontiac does not offer it with an automatic, and I am not the only driver in my household).

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  Fantastic car - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By mbkano - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I have never been a big fan of 4 cylinder cars but the Vibe has a nice smooth ride. It also has good pick up. I especially like the good gas mileage. Its very comfortable on long trips. The Vibe has so much cargo space and yet its a small car. I would recommend it to anyone.

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  awsome car! - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By missina - December 23 - 10:13 pm

  I was looking at the 06 vibe and found that I could get more for my money by getting an 05 even if it was used. This car drives wonderfully for me, although my only thing aganst it is that part of the roof rack was stolen off my car and it was way to easy for the person to take it (all they needed was a flat head screw driver) and now I cant find the part to replace it and the dealership said that we can "talk" about it.

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  Nice! - 2004 Pontiac Vibe
  By Snark - December 19 - 10:00 am

  An excellent little car for very little money. Lots of room for people and cargo, stylish, comfortable, and fun to drive. Those who gripe about its snow performance are themselves to blame for not sticking on a decent pair of snow tires. Colorado winters are no problem with the right tires. Thoughtful interior, great gas mileage. If you dont care for pretentious luxury but want a very nice car, this is a great pick. Yay for Toyota reliability.

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  2009 Pontiac Vibe GT - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
  By hauppa - December 19 - 8:26 am

  Car is great looking and is great on fuel as well. The lights go on automatically when it gets dark and with the sun roof the Gt 2009 Pontiac Vibe is an eye catcher. So many people stop and look at the Vibe. Has so many neat items that all work very well. AC works great, heater is great, wiper at the rear window is great, heater in the back window is helpful on a cold day to see things with the rear view mirror. Has a great radio and a jack to enter ones own music. Well all I got to say it is a great or nice car for almost anyone.

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  Very satisfied - 2007 Pontiac Vibe
  By tom - December 13 - 4:46 pm

  Very satisfied with this vehicle. Far better handling, acceleration, and fuel economy than my previous vehicle which was smaller and lighter. Excellent value.

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  LOVE IT! - 2003 Pontiac Vibe
  By michelle1981 - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love my Vibe. Ive never had a problem with it. It is very comfortable and fun to drive. I have had it for 2 years and my next car will be another Vibe GT. It will not let you down!

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  excellent vehicle - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By natcat - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my 2004 Pontiac Vibe in Lava Red. It is a 4 speed automatic. great car. the one think that made me upset is that when i first decided on going thru with itm i said i wanted a 6 disc changer. well they said the one i bought had one and when i tried it out, it didnt. well it turns out they are going to replace it for me. I like the interior the best. if it had a 6 cylinder i would be happier. thats my review. i give it 5 stars for excellence!

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  GREAT - 2005 Pontiac Vibe
  By fluter - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I loved my vibe and I hate I had to trade it in, but the dealership wouldnt work with me on getting an automatic. I have a left foot problem, and needed to quit shifting, but Im not giving up yet. The dealership I bought it off of is looking for a comparable substitute, Id be happy with another Vibe, as long as it is an automatic.I miss my Vibe!!!!I wish you could help me , but I guess youre not in a position to do that God Bless You for making my Vibe, it was ,and hopefully will be again.