2006 Pontiac Vibe: Road Test
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2006 Pontiac Vibe ▼
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- MSRP: $16,430 -$20,105
- Invoice: $15,526 -$18,999
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Our road test for the 2006 Pontiac Vibe includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Pontiac Vibe from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Pontiac Vibe, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Pontiac Vibe help you decide if a 2006 Pontiac Vibe is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.4 |
Engines need high rpm to deliver decent power. In most sitations, 126-hp Vibes feel almost as strong as 164-hp GT and Matrix XRS. Pontiac says base manual-transmission FWD takes about 9.5 sec 0-60 mph; expect the same of comparable Matrix. Heavier AWD needs some 11.5 sec. Test Matrix XRS did 8.5 sec 0-60; Vibe GT is similar.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
In our tests, 126-hp models with automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg, an AWD 28.4. Expect 22-25 mpg overall for 164-hp models, for which premium-grade fuel is recommended. Regular OK for other engines. Note that AWD has smaller fuel tank.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.9 |
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, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.6 |
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 crisp, direct. Only ABS-equipped models available for testing; they have good stopping performance.
QUIETNESS
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.2 |
All models suffer constant, marked wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum. Engines loud at full throttle, none too hushed in gentle cruising. General mechanical buzz felt through seat, steering wheel, pedals.
CONTROLS
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Toyota-designed controls mostly user-friendly, but smallish, deep-set gauges aren't easy to read in some light conditions, and their bright trim rings can dazzle. Red night lighting not universally liked. Optional navigation system absorbs some audio functions, has undersized buttons, and is overly complex; we'd avoid it. Cabin finish and sturdy materials are in line with prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
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)
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.9 |
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, but doorsills rather narrow, and doors should open wider.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 4.7 |
Liftgate includes handy separate-opening window. Rear seat folds in easy one-handed motion to make a flat load floor. Right front seat also flops down for extra-long items. Cargo bay has tie-downs and built-in tracks for securing gear. Cabin furnishes ample small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 9 | 6.2 |
Any of these wagons is a good alternative to a compact SUV. Their main assets are high utility, Toyota-reliable engineering, and the available AWD, curtain side airbags and antiskid system. Rowdy low-torque engines are a big debit, though. Note that Vibes have higher base prices than comparable Matrixes, but also more standard features--and, as Pontiacs, tend to carry heavier, more frequent discounts.
Total Score
| Base, auto. | GT w/17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 60 | 58 | 52 |
Total Score: 59
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