2005 Pontiac Vibe: Road Test
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2005 Pontiac Vibe ▼
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- MSRP: $17,130 -$20,455
- Invoice: $16,017 -$19,125
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Our road test for the 2005 Pontiac Vibe includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Pontiac Vibe from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Pontiac Vibe, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Pontiac Vibe help you decide if a 2005 Pontiac Vibe is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.1 |
Both engines need high rpm to deliver decent power, especially 170-hp version. In fact, 130-hp models feel almost as strong around town 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. Heavier AWD models 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
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Test 2WD models with 130-hp engine and automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg. Test AWD models with 123-hp engine averaged 28.4. Expect 22-25 mpg overall with 170-hp models. Manufacturer recommends premium-grade fuel for 170-hp versions, regular for the others.
RIDE QUALITY
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
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
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.4 |
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 available for testing; they have good stopping performance.
QUIETNESS
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 |
Both engines loud at full throttle, none too hushed in gentle cruising, and general mechanical buzz felt through seat, steering wheel, and pedals. Wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum a constant.
CONTROLS
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Dashboard design mostly good. Gauges a bit small and set in dark tunnels, so they're not that easy to see in some daytime conditions, and their bright trim rings can reflect in windshield. Red night lighting not universally liked. Cabin finish and materials sturdy and in harmony with prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 |
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)
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.6 |
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
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 3.9 |
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
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 9 | 5.8 |
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, as are the available antiskid system and front curtain side airbags. On the downside, there's no surplus of power from engines that are somewhat noisy. And note that Vibes have higher base prices than the Matrix, though the Pontiacs generally have more standard equipment than comparable Matrix models and more-generous factory incentives.
Total Score
| FWD Base, auto. | GT w/17-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 59 | 57 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 58
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