2004 Pontiac Vibe Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Built by Toyota, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe shares similarities with the Matrix, but this compact SUV/sport wagon is aimed more at active...
Built by Toyota, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe shares similarities with the Matrix, but this compact SUV/sport wagon is aimed more at active outdoorsy types who need plenty of storage flexibility to carry anything from surfers to surfboards. There are few changes to the 2004 Vibe, aside from a new XM satellite option. The optional 17-inch tires are now all-season.
The 2004 Vibe seats four to five passengers and carries up to 54 cubic feet of cargo inside. A roof rack adds more space, and the cargo area features rails with tie-downs. The front passenger seat also folds flat for objects as long as eight feet, and the seatback can be used as a front row table. The sporty Vibe is aimed at the youth market, so although none of the three trims come with many standard features (power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control are all optional), they do come with a CD player. A 6-CD player is optional.
The base Vibe features a 130-hp, 1.8-liter I4 engine and comes in front-wheel or part-time all-wheel drive. The AWD Vibe only gets 123-hp, due to its extra weight. The AWD comes only with a 4-speed automatic, while the base has a choice between that and a 5-speed manual. The more powerful GT has a 180-hp, 1.8-liter I4 matched to a 6-speed manual. It also adds a leather-wrapped wheel and aluminum wheels and is customizable for tuners. ABS brakes are standard in the AWD and GT, but not offered in the base. Other options include side impact airbags, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Late in 2004, a supercharged version of the base I4 engine becomes available. Owners of the 2004 Vibe say it's very roomy, with excellent cargo versatility and plenty of headroom. They like the way it handles, its sporty looks, and the great 27/34 mpg as compared to other SUVs. They do wish it had more power and pickup, and complain that it can be noisy and the plastic interior shows early wear and tear.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2004 Pontiac Vibe appreciate its spaciousness, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Many drivers enjoy the smooth handling and fun driving experience it offers, especially for a compact car. However, some reviewers noted a lack of power, particularly with the manual transmission option, and mentioned that noise insulation could be improved."
It’s a great little car. It runs smooth, it’s quiet, and it’s very roomy! Loving it so far!
March 14, 2021love how it handles. love the roominess esp in the cargo area. Love the reliability. very comfortable front seats with lumbar support. accelerates and brakes well. always have felt safe in this car. it's been a great car for me.
May 21, 2012I loved this car for when we had a large dog and just one kid but now that I have two kids I can't take the dog with when we go on trips. This car was good at hauling cargo or large boxed items by folding down the back seats.
February 8, 2013What owners say
It’s a great little car. It runs smooth, it’s quiet, and it’s very roomy! Loving it so far!
March 14, 2021love how it handles. love the roominess esp in the cargo area. Love the reliability. very comfortable front seats with lumbar support. accelerates and brakes well. always have felt safe in this car. it's been a great car for me.
May 21, 2012I loved this car for when we had a large dog and just one kid but now that I have two kids I can't take the dog with when we go on trips. This car was good at hauling cargo or large boxed items by folding down the back seats.
February 8, 2013Performance- has a suprising amount of pickup for a 4cyl I previously drove a Durango. Handling is good. No ABS for some reason. Build Quality- The dealer didn't do any of the 60k repairs so we did. Road noise blocking isn't the best. But has Toyota's reliability without the cost. Cost of ownership- cheap on gas Fun Factor- fun to drive, but hard to take on bad dirt roads.
October 24, 2008This car is perfect for a family that doesn't want an SUV yet. The operating costs are low and the cargo space is great. Easy access for child seats, too. There's a good chance I buy another Vibe after this one.
May 22, 2014great value for the money, I would strongly recommend this car to anyone. The only real downfall I found was that in order to get the all wheel drive system, you had to purchase the car with an automatic. Unfortunately, with only 123 hp, the manual transmission was needed for any 'spirited' driving. For the snow season, a set on Bridgestone Blizzak Revo1's helped with traction.
May 21, 2008It's definitely worth a look. There's a ton of room inside with the seats down, and seats 5 comfortably with the seats up. Great mileage and very few repairs have been needed with mine. All in all a great little wagon that's fun to drive.
May 8, 2008An inexpensive AWD station wagon w/ unbelievable space in the back
June 17, 2008This car is a very reliable car. Great for getting around town or long trips. The luggage rack has come in very handy. The AC power outlet is a unique feature of this car that has been very useful. I loved this car for the 6 years we have owned it.
May 23, 2014Considering I was driving a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker before this (hey, it was free.) this car's a blast. After a few months behind the wheel, the 180 horsies CAN be fun, but man you've got to wring the car's neck to get all the hp. For a budget car, the brakes are pretty fabulous, and the handling is a little loose, but not bad. "Lift", the noticeable boost you get between 6400-8200 rmps (yes, those numbers are correct. It revs forever.), is a hoot, but normal driving conditions only allow lift in first and second. Unless you don't mind hitting 90 on the freeway. Overall, fun. Build quality isn't the best, but it's 95 percent Toyota so I can't complain too much. I average 26-28 mpg mixed driving.
March 5, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $20,465 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 123 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 19.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $17,165 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 130 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 19.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 29 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,115 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 173 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 19.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
