Small but solid: 2009 Pontiac Vibe

Cars

All-new, but still retaining the original's blend of style, performance and versatility, the 2009 Pontiac Vibe also signals the return of the popular all-wheel drive and performance-oriented GT models (shown here). The 2009 Vibe will make its public debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show and will be available at Pontiac dealerships in early 2008. X09PN_VB001

By Connie Keane, Motor Matters

Last update: June 11, 2008 - 5:49 PM

There's a reason the 2009 Pontiac Vibe will attract buyers. This sporty-looking crossover seats five people like a sedan, yet is capable of being used for many purposes.

Flexibility and utility are the main reasons people used to buy the big sport utility vehicles, but in today's market, big isn't better, especially when it comes to fuel economy. That is one reason why manufacturers have downsized to this type of vehicle, which they now call a crossover.

There's more to the Vibe than just being a crossover. The Vibe's short body overhang and roof rack add visual appeal. My tester stood on the optional 17-inch aluminum chrome clad wheels wrapped in all-season tires and looked as solid as a rock. When I started to drive the Vibe, I quickly found its appearance was not deceptive.

The handling was so good, I checked with the Pontiac people and was told that it has a MacPherson strut front suspension and twist-beam rear suspension, producing a quiet ride plus comfort and stable handling. In addition, Pontiac folks said the Vibe has StabiliTrak included as standard equipment.

These kinds of features made me feel safe and secure when speeding the Vibe over wiggly, winding roads. I almost felt like I was driving a sports car.

The 2009 Vibe has a base price of $18,910 and the bottom line for my tester was $22,615. The options included what is called a Sun and Sound Package: power sunroof, seven-speaker sound system, leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-wrapped shift knob. The options also included a remote keyless entry, power door locks, power windows, and cruise control and front and rear variable intermittent wipers. The 17-inch wheels were also included in the option package.

Even if you wanted to buy the Vibe without the options, you would get a pretty good package. It comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 258 horsepower linked to with a four-speed transmission.

EPA fuel economy: City: 20, Highway: 26

Base MSRP: $18,910

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