The Pontiac Vibe has been completely redesigned for the 2009 model year. In addition to fresh interior and exterior styling, the sporty compact wagon also gains new trims and a more powerful engine. The 1.8-liter engine has been kept for the Vibe base trim, but all others will now be powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, borrowed from the Toyota Camry. The Vibe shares a number of engineering attributes with the Toyota Matrix, but Pontiac's wagon is differentiated by unique exterior styling and a stiffer suspension.
The Vibe faces some stiff competition in the rapidly expanding compact wagon segment. While all choices offer a considerable amount of cargo space without significant bulk, the Vibe's competitors have each carved out a specific niche. Alternatives include the retro-styled Chevrolet HHR, the sporty MAZDA3, and the eye-catching Scion xB. While Pontiac's model may not offer any exclusive characteristics, buyers can expect an impressive cargo capacity of 49.4 cubic feet, a strong and reliable Toyota powerplant in the 2.4-equipped models, and a composed ride in any type of driving.
The Vibe 1.8L was the only trim available in 2008, but Pontiac has expanded the lineup considerably for 2009. The new 2.4L comes similarly equipped to the base, but includes the bigger engine. The Vibe AWD is also new this year and the only Vibe to offer a four-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. The top-tier GT gets exclusive features like a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded 320-watt MP3 audio system, full power accessories, cruise control, and keyless entry. And inside the well-appointed GT you'll find leather-and-cloth combination sport seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
Although the modest 1.8-liter engine returns in the base trim, it has been enhanced for more power. This mill now generates 132 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs of torque and achieves impressive 26/32 mpg fuel economy. All other Vibes are powered by the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 158 horsepower and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Optional transmissions include a four-speed automatic and a five-speed automatic; the latter is part of the 1SB package. When equipped with the larger engine, the Vibe speeds from 0 to 60 in about 8 seconds. Fuel economy with the 2.4-liter engine is estimated at 21/28 mpg.
