2006 Pontiac Vibe Base 1.8 litre from North America
Summary:
Excellent reliability, utility and economy
Faults:
Replaced air conditioner dryer and condenser at 243000 km.
Replaced radiator fan at 265000 km.
General Comments:
First off, my ratings are based on cars in a similar class, I am not comparing the Vibe to a Ferrari for performance or a Mercedes for comfort.
The Vibe is a versatile, reliable and economical car with a firm ride and good handling. The interior is spacious for occupants in both front and rear, while its cargo/utility capacity is large. It is a well optioned car, even in the base model, and returns a consistent 33-37 mpg (imperial gallons) and is capable of cruising at 70 miles an hour all day long. Being only a 1.8 litre engine in my version (a 2.4 is available), it can require a downshift from overdrive into drive in steep terrain, but can tackle very steep grades well. Road noise in the cabin is acceptable, little wind noise is evident, and road noise is largely dependent on tire selection.
I purchased this car as a second vehicle for my wife, and despite the high mileage, it has been reliable. It has become my wife's all time favorite small car and, of the 70 or so vehicles I have owned for business and personal use, is my favorite small car as well. I was not very concerned about the high mileage as I have a number of friends with Vibe's that have similar mileage, and all of them gave the Vibe a very high rating. The Vibe is based on the original Toyota Matrix and a huge number of both have been sold, which means parts are readily available and not expensive (many Toyota Corolla parts are also interchangeable). A good buy!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 7th July, 2020
17th Sep 2009, 20:03
You can thank Toyota for this lovely, well-engineered vehicle. You didn't think Chevy was capable of making something this good, did you?