2008 Pontiac Vibe: Road Test
2008 Pontiac Vibe ▼
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- MSRP: $16,760 -
- Invoice: $15,838 -
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Our road test for the 2008 Pontiac Vibe includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Pontiac Vibe from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Pontiac Vibe, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Pontiac Vibe help you decide if a 2008 Pontiac Vibe is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.8 |
Vibe's small engine needs high rpm to deliver any sort of power. The automatic transmission is smooth but has to shift frequently. Passing punch is mediocre at best.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an automatic-transmission model averaged 26.6 mpg in city/highway driving. Another averaged a frugal 36.3 mpg in mostly highway use. Vibe uses regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
With the standard 16-inch tires, the ride is rather jittery over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks. The optional 17-inch tires increase harshness.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
For a tall wagon, Vibe corners without undue body lean. Handling is decent with the standard 16-inch tires. The optional 17s make Vibe feel more nimble. Gusty crosswinds cause mild wander, but the is steering crisp and direct. Note that the optional ABS is a purchase we strongly recommend.
QUIETNESS
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.5 |
Disappointing. There's constant, marked wind rush and coarse-surface tire noise. The engine is buzzy and loud at any speed. A general mechanical buzz can be felt through the seat, steering wheel, and pedals.
CONTROLS
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Toyota-designed controls are mostly user-friendly, but Vibe's smallish, deep-set gauges aren't easy to read in some light conditions. The navigation system absorbs some audio functions, has undersized buttons, and is overly complex. We'd avoid it.
DETAILS
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
Vibe's cabin finish is good, and sturdy materials are in line with prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Vibe's fine driving position is slightly higher and much more upright than in a typical small car. Great headroom even with the sunroof, but long-legged drivers may want more rearward seat travel. Good overall seat comfort, but spirited cornering reveals inadequate side bolstering. Outward visibility is slightly cluttered over the shoulder, good otherwise.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.1 |
Seat comfort is nothing special, but two adults enjoy good head clearance. Chairlike height affords sufficient knee and foot room unless the front seats are well back. Entry/exit pretty easy, but the doorsills are rather narrow, and the doors should open wider.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 4.9 |
The liftgate includes a handy separate-opening window. Folding the rear seatbacks are an easy task and create a flat load floor. The right front seat also flops down for extra-long items. Cargo bay has tie-downs and built-in tracks for securing gear. Small-item storage is ample.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
Vibe's main assets--good utility and fuel economy, and Toyota-reliable engineering--are intact. The rowdy, low-torque engine is a big debit, though. The Toyota Matrix is redesigned for 2009, while Vibe carries over on the older 2003-2007 design. As such, this Pontiac should be available at discounted prices, making it worth a look.
Total Score
| Base, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 60 | 58.8 |
Total Score: 60
Scores for all Compact Cars
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