Snapshot:
Available in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive this veritable twin of the Toyota Matrix (both cars are made in the same plant) is sure to please those that want a versatile small wagon/hatch from an American company.
How Much?:
Price for a 2004 Pontiac Vibe in the US ranges from $17,165 to $20,465.
The Inside Story:
While small on the outside the Vibe offers up to 57 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down. The base model doesn't offer a lot of safety features as standard equipment but most everything is available as an option. Front airbags are standard on the base model.
Under the Hood:
The 1.8 liter four cylinder twin-cam engine produces between 123 horsepower with all-wheel-drive, 130 horsepower in standard front-wheel-drive, and 173 horsepower in the GT version. Sensible driving should return roughly 29 city/34 highway mpg.
Transmissions:
A 5-speed manual is standard and a 4-speed automatic is optional in the base Vibe; all-wheel-drive comes only with automatic; the GT gets a 6-speed manual.
Warranty:
Bumper-to-bumper: 3 years/36,000 miles. Powertrain: 3 years/36,000 miles.
Should you Buy a 2004 Pontiac Vibe?:
The Pontiac Vibe is a great small, sport wagon/hatchback. Pontiac was smart to team up with Toyota because this is a home run vehicle if you want a car with some utility and yet not break the bank (a la Subaru's Outback). The Vibe doesn't have a single outstanding feature over the competition yet still feels as though everything is first rate. It does, however, come with a handy 115-volt electrical outlet. Contrarian view: Toyota Matrix (we think it will hold its value longer).
