2009 Pontiac Vibe pricing—starts under $16k

Pricing for the 2009 Pontiac Vibe will start at $15,895 when it goes on sale in February 2008. The redesigned Vibe hatchback marks the return of the sporty GT variant ($19,495) and available AWD ($19,495).

Mechanically identical to the Toyota Matrix, the new Vibe features more powerful four-cylinder engines: a 132-hp, 1.8-liter and a new high-output, 158-hp 2.4-liter. The best news is that the more powerful unit delivers 162 lb-ft of torque, making up for a significant shortfall of the previous model. The larger engine will be optional on the base Vibe, but standard on the AWD and GT versions. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard on the AWD, but the 2.4-liter base or GT models have the option of choosing either a five-speed manual or a new five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

The Vibe exterior retains a familial resemblance to the first-generation version, and clearly differentiated from the Toyota. The AWD version comes with a standard roof rack and the GT has a unique front fascia. The interior again features fold-flat seats with protective backing for cargo duties and a 115-volt power outlet in the dashboard. GT models include leather-trim seats, steering wheel, and shifter.

Standard safety features include electronic stability control, active head restraints, and six air bags.

—Liza Barth

For more photos, visit our LA Auto Show coverage.
Discuss Pontiac in the Cars forums.

Comments

[Charles]

Liza,

The improved torque, standard ESC & active head restraints are significant improvements.

1.) Will the new FWD five-speed manual, 158-hp 2.4-liter Matrix/Vibe GT have a limited-slip differential like the Civic Si, Mini Cooper S or Mini Clubman S?

2.) Will there be any improvement in the driving position/ergonomics/comfort/noise suppression?

3.) Has the cargo volume increased?

4.) Has rear visibility been improved?

[Liza Barth]

Hi Charles,

To answer some of your questions, I don't see any information on a limited slip differential for the Vibe. The interior has been redesigned and Pontiac says it's a driver-focused cockpit design, so the driving position may have changed. The cargo volume is 49.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. From looking at the photos, there is still a small rear window, so rear visibility may not have improved. We'll know more about the Vibe when we purchase and test the vehicle in a few months.

[HARRY]

Based on what you have seen and heard on the 2009 Vibe, which is similar to the Matrix, have you found any distinguishing features between the 2 cars? What about options? GM seems to build in the standard features that people like whereas for the Matrix these are additional options to add to the car's price. Examples: Automatic, cruise, side airbags, ABS brakes etc. At first glance, do you have a preference for one or the other?

harry

[dale]

we bought a 2009 pontiac vibe awd back in april. so far we are pretty happy with it but we made some changes to it and if we had to do it again would do some things different. for one thing i would not get the chrome clad wheels again. although they look sharp they are not durable at all. at 1500 miles we noticed that the chrome was nicked and peeling. upon closer inspection we found that the chrome is not chrome at all but a plastic surface that is put on with a chrome finish. at 4000 miles our wheels look rather shabby already and the future is not looking good. also in the awd model pontiac puts that worthless roof rack in the package and it can't be deleted. there is no option for leather or heated seats so we had to take the car in and install custom leather seats. they really set off the interior of the car. and the only cd player option is a one disc player. you do get xm radio and it works pretty good-not sure if it is worth $13 a month. also you have onstar for one year but after calling in a couple of times am quite sure we won't be continuing that. the car drives very good for a small car and the room inside that is usable is really quite good. mileage on the highway is between 27-28mpg. city driving or short trips always have stayed over 21mpg. not bad for an awd. with the 2.4 liter engine power is not even an issue. plenty of power to pass or climb hills. i still think it could get a lot of good from the 5-speed auto. transmission but for some reason it is not available in the awd. at interstate speed the engine hovers over 3 grand and could use another gear to improve gas mileage. overall a nice little car but if pontiac would add just a few more amenities it could be a great little car.