2009 Pontiac Vibe [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 16 Vibe reviews and test drives.
Pontiac Vibe - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Pontiac Vibe ranks 10 out of 12 Affordable Compact Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 16 published reviews and test drives of the Pontiac Vibe, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2009 Pontiac Vibe is an affordable and appealing alternative to much larger SUVs and crossovers.
The 2009 Pontiac Vibe comes to market (along with its near-twin the Toyota Matrix) as a practical package for budget minded buyers. The Vibe is a compact wagon/crossover that GM developed along Toyota. Although the Vibe wears a Pontiac badge, it rides on a Toyota Corolla platform, and is built at the same plant. The Vibe and The Matrix look a lot alike and, mechanically, are almost identical.
While some reviewers complain of lackluster performance, others point out that the Vibe's excellent fuel economy and interior versatility make the Vibe's shortcomings easily overlooked. The Dallas Morning News says that the 2009 Vibe "is a vehicle for the times -- a time of four-buck-a-gallon gasoline, that is. The Vibe is a little bit crossover sport utility, station wagon and compact car rolled into one."
- "It's cost-cut crude in places, and less fun to drive than it looks, but Vibe is an enjoyable, practical, compact. Available all-wheel drive is a nice find in this class." -- Consumer Guide
- "Pontiac, it seems, is trying very hard to make everyone forget the Aztek." -- Chicago Tribune
- "It's a logical, flexible compact that should appeal to everyone from high-schoolers to empty nesters." -- New Car Test Drive
- "One of the best alternatives to the larger, less fuel-efficient SUVs on the market, the Vibe offers both utility and economy in a stylish package that helps make consumers feel good about downsizing to cut their rising fuel bills." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Vibe Performance - 6.5 (Mediocre)
Most reviewers say that the 2009 Pontiac Vibe offers solid, but unexciting performance. Kelley Blue Book notes that, "although sportier than before, the Vibe still isn't as athletic as the MAZDA3," but other reviewers argue that the Vibe's practicality outweighs its stick-in-the-mud driving experience. A number of reviewers are also pleased that the Vibe offers optional all wheel drive. A full performance review is coming soon. continue
Vibe Exterior - 7.1 (Good)
The 2009 Vibe's exterior is only mildly changed from the previous models. The car sits two inches lower and has lost some plastic body cladding that had annoyed many reviewers. The Vibe still looks very similar to the Toyota Matrix, but not as similar as the old model did. About.com says, "This time, Toyota and Pontiac tried to further separate the two cars visually, and I think Pontiac got the better end of the deal -- I prefer the Vibe's smooth, simple lines to the awkward angles of the Matrix." A full exterior review is coming soon. In the meantime, check out our 2009 Pontiac Vibe photos. continue
Vibe Interior - 7.4 (Good)
Given the Vibe's low starting price, many reviewers were pleasantly surprised by its interior. New Car Test Drive says, "with prices starting just over $15,000 you won't find a leather-lined cabin and lots of soft-touch surfaces, yet the door panels and center armrest are comfortably shaped and there are no rough edges on the plastic trim. " Other reviewers are pleased by the comfortable passenger space and the versatile cargo room. Kelley Blue Book notes "the Pontiac Vibe has more interior room, cargo volume and a lower price tag than both the MAZDA3 and Chevy HHR." Our full interior review is coming soon, but you can check out 2009 Pontiac Vibe interior photos now. continue
Vibe Safety - NA
The 2009 Pontiac Vibe gets excellent crash test scores from the government. The Vibe gets a perfect five star rating for driver and passenger protection in frontal crashes and another perfect five-star rating for front seat protection in side-impact crashes. It gets a four-star rating for back seat protection in side-impact crashes. The Car Connection says, "As for safety, the Vibe has a package we'd like to see on more expensive products, including anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control. There are six airbags, as well, and active headrests, designed to reduce neck injuries." A full safety review is coming soon. continue
Vibe Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2009 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). The 2009 Pontiac Vibe is covered by GMs 5 year/100,000 mile power train warranty. Edmunds points out that "the redesigned-for-2009 Pontiac Vibe shares the Toyota [Matrix's] interior and mechanical components -- a genealogy that promises long-term reliability and durability." continue
