2006 Pontiac Vibe Base 1.8L from North America
Summary:
Practical and reliable
Faults:
- Air conditioning failed after first winter.
- Front driver mat shifts frequently.
General Comments:
This car has been excellent in every way. To list a few of the strengths:
- Gas mileage has been consistent 8-9L/100KM (26-30mpg) with about 70% city driving. Highway driving I've seen closer to 7L/100KM (33mpg).
- It starts first time, every time.
- The car has good acceleration around town.
- Comfortable for long highway drives.
- The hatchback provides enough space to bring home everything from three people and an elliptical to 42" plasma TV.
Weaknesses:
- Air conditioner isn't strong enough for tropical climates, but has been acceptable in the temperate area I live in.
- 1.8L engine has moments at higher speeds where it would be nice to have a little more power.
- Paint tends to chip easily.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 3rd August, 2008
26th Jul 2009, 22:23
Update #1
After 2 1/2 years.
The gas mileage has been pretty consistent.
The only real issue I've had so far has been a faulty ECU (or PCM) that was replaced under warranty. With this repair I noticed an improved in pickup on the highway.
Aside from the previous issue with the ECU, this car has cranked on the first try 99.9% of the time. (with that 0.1% being human error rather than fault of the vehicle)
Purchased a set of low end winter tires, these made a huge difference in winter and wet driving from the stock Eagle RSAs. So far this car has been what I expected.. reliable, low maintenance and fun to drive.
26th Jul 2011, 23:56
Update #2
4 1/2 years of ownership.
Shroud that protects the gas tank on the passenger side has rusted and come loose. Vibration sound was deafening at low speed or idle. Replacement required, short term fix with plastic ties.
First flat tire. I never even realized I had a flat until I pulled off the highway and could feel the car pulling to the side. Replaced all four tires.
This car continues to start consistently, burn the same amount of gas, and aside from a few paint chips on the hood that are starting to rust, looks like new.
2nd Sep 2012, 00:53
Update #3:
Closing in on six years of ownership.
This car has done everything I've expected and more, in the past six years.
Maintaining this car thus far has been inexpensive. It has required very little aside from four oil changes a year, new wiper blades once a year, a new engine air filter each year, a set of all seasons and a set of snow tires. To describe my experience with this car in one word... Dependable.
28th Aug 2008, 15:45
I agree with the paint issue. Kinda krummy. : (