2007 Pontiac Vibe [ 2009 , 2008 ]
Pontiac Vibe
Overall Score - 8.4 (Very Good)
The Vibe offers a striking exterior design, a long list of standard convenience features and cargo space that's both abundant and versatile. Best of all, the Vibe is co-produced by Toyota, and is thus expected to maintain a similarly high level of reliability. Even so, a sluggish and noisy powertrain, combined with generally uncomfortable seats, detract from its overall appeal. If you're in the market for an affordable wagon, you should also consider the Subaru Impreza Wagon and Chrysler PT Cruiser.
The 2007 Pontiac Vibe is praised for its unique exterior/interior design and lengthy list of standard convenience features. Moreover, its large and flexible cargo room and expected level of reliability impress reviewers. Nevertheless, significant powertrain and seat-comfort woes need to be taken into consideration before purchasing a Vibe. Even so, MSN reports that it's "a worthwhile small hatchback/wagon."
Despite being more fuel-efficient than the average sport wagon, the Vibe's sluggish and loud four-cylinder engine and standard five-speed manual transmission leave many auto writers unimpressed. "On the road, the Vibe's engine loves to rev, and needs to, as it doesn't have a lot of pulling power," says the Orlando Sentinel. Regardless of misgivings about the engine, most reviewers agree that the Vibe offers a very distinctive and eye-catching design. "The Vibe comes off looking like the result of a union between the homecoming king and queen: It's attractive, versatile, functional and well-conceived," says Edmunds.
Inside, the Vibe is just as attractive -- and praised for its long list of standard convenience features and overall fit and finish. "We like the Vibe's interior, with its simple, easy-to-follow center stack and instrument panel," says Automobile Magazine. While its airy interior and versatile cargo space astound, reviewers find its seats to be generally uncomfortable and only adequate for four adults.
The 2007 Pontiac Vibe's safety scores are competitive -- but it does much better when equipped with optional side air bags. Because the Vibe is the result of a joint venture between General Motors (GM) and Toyota, drivers can be generally assured of its reliability. "The Vibe has proven Toyota components and is an attractive alternative to a compact wagon or sport ute," says MSN. The Vibe rides on the same platform as the Toyota Matrix and the Toyota Corolla.
For a crossover vehicle/wagon, many reviewers agree that the 2007 Pontiac Vibe is reasonably priced. Though Consumer Guide claims that "with [its] discontinuation of the all-wheel-drive model for 2007, Vibe loses much of its appeal as an alternative to a compact SUV," it concedes that its "main assets" remain "good utility and fuel economy, and Toyota-reliable engineering." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Pontiac Vibe a rating of "Excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class.
Vibe Performance - 6.4 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Pontiac Vibe is credited for its solid handling and braking systems. Nevertheless, its powertrain can, at times, contribute to a sluggish driving experience. MSN says the engine has "lazy acceleration during passing maneuvers above 65 mph -- even with just a driver aboard." continue
Vibe Exterior - 7.4 (Good)
Most reviewers agree that the Pontiac Vibe's exterior design is both striking and unique. Cars.com says: "With a sleek wedge and short overhangs, the Vibe displays basic styling cues that suggest an SUV. A slight resemblance to the company's controversial and now-defunct Aztek may be noted, but the Vibe is considerably less radical." continue
Vibe Interior - 7.6 (Good)
The Pontiac Vibe receives accolades for its roomy and well-designed interior, long list of standard convenience features and versatile cargo room. Most reviewers, however, are not impressed by its lack of seat comfort. Nevertheless, Edmunds claims that the interior cabin is "well-assembled with none of the chintzy-looking (or feeling) controls that plague many nonpremium GM models." continue
Vibe Safety - 7.9 (Good)
The 2007 Pontiac Vibe gets good scores in government crash tests, particularly when it is equipped with optional side air bags. continue
Vibe Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2007 Pontiac Vibe reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Pontiac covers the Vibe with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
