2003 Pontiac Vibe: Road Test
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2003 Pontiac Vibe ▼
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- MSRP: $16,485 -$19,785
- Invoice: $15,413 -$18,499
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Our road test for the 2003 Pontiac Vibe includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Pontiac Vibe from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Pontiac Vibe, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Pontiac Vibe help you decide if a 2003 Pontiac Vibe is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 |
Both engines need high rpm to deliver decent power, especially 180-hp version. In fact, 130-hp models have more usable torque at much lower rpm and feel almost as strong as Vibe GT and Matrix XRS. Pontiac says base manual-transmission 2WD Vibe takes about 9.5 sec 0-60 mph; expect the same of comparable Matrix models. AWD versions are some 265 lb heavier than 2WD models and take about 11.5 sec 0-60 mph. Test Matrix XRS did 8.5 sec 0-60; expect the same of Vibe GT.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.5 |
Test 2WD models with 130-hp engine and automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg. Test AWD models with 123-hp engine averaged 25.4. Test 180-hp models with manual transmission averaged 24.8. The manufacturers recommend premium-grade fuel for the 180-hp versions, regular for the others.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.4 |
Varies some with model and equipment, but acceptable with 16-inch wheels, if rather jittery over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks. Optional 17-inch tires increase harshness.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.3 |
For tall wagons, Vibe and Matrix corner without undue body lean. Handling good with standard 16-inch wheels, nimble with optional 17s. Gusty crosswinds cause mild wander, but steering is crisp, direct. Only ABS-equipped models made available for testing; they have good stopping performance.
QUIETNESS
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3.7 |
Both engines are loud at full throttle, none too hushed in gentle cruising, and general mechanical buzz felt through seat, steering wheel, and pedals. Also fair wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum.
CONTROLS
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Dashboard design, cabin decor part GM, part Toyota, mostly good. Gauges a bit small and set in dark tunnels, so not that easy to see in some daytime conditions, and their bright trim rings can reflect in windshield. Red night lighting not universally liked. Optional navigation system absorbs some audio functions, has undersize buttons, and is overly complex; we'd avoid it. Cabin finish and materials sturdy and in line with prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.8 |
Fine driving position slightly higher and much more upright than in typical small car. Great head room even with sunroof, but long-legged drivers may want more rearward seat travel. Good overall seat comfort, but spirited cornering reveals lack of lateral bolstering. Outward visibility slightly cluttered over-the-shoulder, good otherwise.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 3.7 |
Seat comfort nothing special, but two adults enjoy good head clearance. Chairlike height affords sufficient knee and foot room unless front seats are well back. Entry/exit pretty easy, though lower opening rather narrow, and doors should open wider.
CARGO ROOM
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 3.8 |
Rear seat folds in an easy one-handed motion to create flat load floor. Right front seat also folds for extra-long items. Cargo bay has tie-downs and built-in tracks for securing gear. Under-floor bins, numerous slots and pockets provide ample small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Any example of this Pontiac/Toyota crossover is a good alternative to a small wagon or compact SUV. High utility, Toyota-reliable engineering, and available AWD are assets. On the downside, there's no surplus of power from engines that are somewhat noisy and high-strung. And note that Vibes have higher base prices than comparable Matrix models: The base AWD Vibe lists for about $1300 more than the like-equipped Matrix XR for example, though Vibe benefits from frequent discounts and incentives.
Total Score
| Base 2WD, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 58 | 57 | 47.2 |
Total Score: 58
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