- 2010
2009 Pontiac Vibe
- Used Pontiac Vibe
Pontiac Vibe - What the Auto Press Says
The Vibe is an affordable and appealing alternative to much larger crossovers, but its unexciting drive doesn't secure a top spot in either our small car or hatchback lists. Consider the Honda Fit if you're looking for a hatchback that's fun to drive with undeniable value.
Previously seen as almost too practical for its own good, the 2009 Pontiac Vibe's great fuel economy, versatile interior and budget pricing give it the opportunity to shine in our current economic climate. Reviewers don't overlook the car's limited performance capabilities or unexciting styling, but they are more forgiving when they put the car's qualifications in perspective. Best described by the Dallas Morning News, the Vibe is "a vehicle for the times -- a time of four-buck-a-gallon gasoline, that is."
But gas prices have since gone down, spending has plummeted, and most people who might have considered purchasing a new car have put those plans on the back burner. General Motors has been in a precarious position for the last few months, and though it had announced plans to continue selling the Vibe as well as Pontiac G8, G5 and Solstice, it has now announced that Pontiac will be phased out by the end of next year. The Vibe will be the only Pontiac released as a 2010 model.
If you've purchased a Pontiac Vibe or are considering one, rest assured your warranty will be honored at the remaining GM dealerships. You should also note the Vibe wears a Pontiac badge but rides on a Toyota Corolla platform. If you feel unsure about investing in a Pontiac, consider a test drive with the Vibe's mechanical twin, the Toyota Matrix, or take the very similar Corolla for a test spin.
- "It's a logical, flexible compact that should appeal to everyone from high-schoolers to empty nesters." -- New Car Test Drive
- "More attractive styling and an improved interior makes the 2009 Pontiac Vibe a better car than the outgoing model, for sure. Both GM and Toyota did a nice job modernizing the Vibe/Matrix and the update couldn't have come at a better time." -- Autoblog
- "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
- "The Vibe is a practical and justifiable small wagon that will face the likes of the Dodge Caliber (which it will trounce) and five-door Mazda3 (which it will not)." -- Car and Driver
- "A reasonable price tag and good fuel economy, combined with a versatile interior layout, make the Vibe a good bet for any motorist on a tight budget." -- Dallas Morning News
- "The 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT lacks the cabin tech for modern entertainment and information. But its saving grace is the usable interior space and the good fuel economy." -- CNET
Vibe Performance - 7.1 (Good)
Most reviewers say that the 2009 Pontiac Vibe offers solid, but unexciting performance, especially when pitted against the sporty Mazda3. Car and Driver says "All the Vibe's moves are admirable. None is spectacular. Result? Sensible shoes." Still, several had positive experiences testing the all-wheel drive trim. Read More
Vibe Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2009 Vibe's exterior is only mildly changed from the previous models, but Pontiac did discard some of the design elements that annoyed reviewers. Now, the car sits two inches lower and has lost some of the disliked plastic body cladding. It still bears a strong resemblance to the Toyota Matrix, but is not as similar as the old model. According to About.com, "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." Autoblog writes, "The hatchback shape is now comprised of smooth sheetmetal that contrasts with hard creases, which gives the updated five-door a more dynamic look than its predecessor. ... We liked the looks of the Vibe GT quite a bit, and more so than the direction Toyota chose to go with the Matrix and its new styling." Read More
Vibe Interior - 7.4 (Good)
Given the Vibe's low starting price, many are 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. " Others are pleased by the comfortable passenger space and the versatile cargo area. Read More
Vibe Safety - 9.2 (Excellent)
The 2009 Pontiac Vibe gets excellent crash test scores from the government, and its safety equipment is held in high regard. Read More
Vibe Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
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 a three-year/36,000 mile basic warranty, as well as GM's five-year/100,000 powertrain coverage. Read More
