NEW FOR 2009:
- Completely redesigned model
For 2009, the Pontiac Vibe undergoes a redesign, as does its sister vehicle, the Toyota Matrix. While its exterior dimensions are virtually unchanged, the Vibe builds on the single trim line and engine offered for 2008, with two engines and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
As with the 2008 model, the Vibe uses a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, but it's a new version, making more horsepower and torque. Also available is a new 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine.
Trim choices are the base Vibe, SE, AWD and GT. The base Vibe uses the 1.8-litre with five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic; the SE uses the 1.8-litre or optional 2.4-litre, with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic; the AWD uses the 2.4-litre with four-speed automatic only; and the GT uses the 2.4-litre with five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic with manual shift mode.
While the base Vibe and SE use front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion-beam suspension, the AWD and GT models substitute an independent rear suspension.
Features on the base Vibe include 16-inch steel wheels, StabiliTrak stability control, side and curtain airbags, tinted glass, 115-volt power outlet, automatic headlight control, power mirrors, fixed intermittent wipers, two-speed rear wiper, floor mats, tilt and telescopic wheel, CD stereo with auxiliary input jack, 60/40 flat-folding rear seats and OnStar.
The SE adds air conditioning, power windows, power locks with keyless entry and cruise control.
The AWD adds roof rack side rails, rear cargo organizer, and a fold-flat front passenger seat.
The GT adds 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome-tipped exhaust outlet, fog lights, spoiler, variable intermittent wipers, driver's side express-down window, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, cloth seats with leather bolsters, and premium seven-speaker Monsoon sound system with CD/MP3, subwoofer and XM Satellite Radio.
The Vibe has always been a fun-to-drive and extremely useful tall wagon; for 2009, it gets even better with standard safety features, including six airbags, anti-lock brakes and stability control, which were optional on the last-generation model, and at a lower price.
All models now feature electric power steering, which has a fairly good feel for the segment, along with numerous interior upgrades. Many buyers will appreciate the return of all-wheel drive, an on-demand system that sends power to the rear wheels when it senses slippage, although the car would be better served by a five-speed automatic rather than a four-speed. The peppy GT model, especially when ordered with a manual transmission, is a great driving experience for the price, and it's still got that haul-anything practicality for which the Vibe is known. Cross-shop it against other tall wagons, including the Toyota Matrix.
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