Test drive: 2009 Pontiac Vibe
Monday January 28, 2008
So here it is -- our first 2009 test drive, and the subject matter is the new version of the Pontiac Vibe, which I was invited by Pontiac to drive just last week. I won't beat around the bush -- I really liked this car. Check out my 2009 Pontiac Vibe test drive to find out why. And for those who like pictures, I've added a bunch of shots to our 2009 Pontiac Vibe photo gallery.
As I mentioned in the blog last week, the car I drove to the Vibe introduction was the Vibe's mechanical twin and soul sister, the Toyota Matrix. Look for my write-up of the Matrix later this week. -- Aaron Gold
The previous Vibe (as well as the Toyota Corolla and Matrix) was notorious for having an awkward driving position with the steering wheel seeming to be too far away from most drivers to be comfortable.
Is that still the case with the new version? Or has Toyota remedied the situation?
Well the styling is a good improvement, although I think the Vibe has lost whatever rugged element it had going for it with the loss of the plastic cladding. They managed to finally put a more powerful engine with the AWD, but one of my biggest pet peeves remains…why not a manual with AWD? I would think a 5spd/2.4L/AWD combo would be the most desireable option, but I guess I must not be the target demographic.
On a side note, Aaron, wouldn’t the 5-door Saturn Astra also be a worthy competitor to the base model? Just wondering how you think it compares.
Johnster: Yes, that issue has been remedied — the new Vibe has a tilt-and-telescope steering column and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.
Demeter: I agree about AWD and a stick — would love to have that combo. As for the Astra — good point. They’re in the same general ballpark, though the Astra’s a bit short on power and the Vibe is better at hauling bulky stuff. I also thought about the Dodge Caliber as a competitor; I think it’s closer to the Vibe’s mini-SUV-like character. But our reviews must run in a limited space, so I had to draw the line somewhere! — Aaron
Nice all-purpose family car that seems about 3k too rich for me to spend on a Pontiac. The Honda Fit can pretty much do what this unit can and well under 20k,with way better fuel economy.
My 2009 Pontiac Vibe with AWD is a great car and performs well, at first startup the engine sounds a bit noisy with what seems to be the ticking of lifters that quiets down after a few minutes.
The dealer told me it was normal and there is no hesitation in the operation of the car, As long as I have the warranty on this car I won’t worry about that issue.
My wife and I went to Florida with a lot of baggage and it handled it all well in the drive up and back.
Here in Michigan we had very deep snow and it went through it without any problem.