2010 Pontiac Vibe: Road Test
2010 Pontiac Vibe ▼
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- MSRP: $16,100 - $20,875
- Invoice: $15,376 - $19,936
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Our road test for the 2010 Pontiac Vibe includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Pontiac Vibe from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Pontiac Vibe, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Pontiac Vibe help you decide if a 2010 Pontiac Vibe is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
The base 1.8-liter engine offers adequate acceleration, at least with the manual transmission; we have had no opportunity to test a Vibe with the 1.8 liter and automatic transmission. The 2.4-liter engine is noticeably stronger from a stop, with better than average merging and passing punch. The manual transmission has smooth shift action and a light clutch. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and is quick to downshift for added thrust.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 6.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a GT with automatic transmission averaged 20.5 mpg, a little disappointing for a front-drive compact car. An AWD model averaged 28.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. Vibe uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.7 |
Base models with 16-inch wheels exhibit good bump absorption over most road blemishes. In GT trim, Vibe has 18-inch wheels and a sport suspension, which tend to magnify imperfections on pavement that looks smooth. As a result, the ride is busier than it needs to be.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 5.4 |
Base Vibes are competent handlers but not really sporty. The GT is more agile, yet not as flingable as one might expect of a compact car with sporty pretensions. Steering feel is generally good in both models. Like the Matrix, Vibe is subject to crosswind wander at highway speeds.
QUIETNESS
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Neither engine is a paragon of refinement. Both grow loud and coarse under heavy throttle, though they cruise fairly quietly. Wind and road noise intrude at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Gauges are buried in tunnel-like housings, and their red markings can be difficult to read in some light conditions. Climate controls are large and handy, but a few audio functions are less obvious and slightly out of reach.
DETAILS
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
As in Matrix, the interior is dominated by hard-plastic surfaces. Climate-control dials move with coarse resistance. Not all testers find the silver-painted plastic dashboard trim appropriate, even in this price class.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Cockpit-inspired cabin design imparts a slightly closed-in feel. Legroom and headroom are fine. Visibility is generally good, but the view aft is compromised by thick pillars.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.8 |
Enough headroom and legroom for two adults, but knee space is tight. The seat is too firm for long-trip comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.7 |
Split-folding rear seatbacks and available flat-folding front passenger seat provide versatile cargo-carrying options. Available cargo management system is highly recommended, as it offers numerous options for keeping smaller items from rolling around; included are a pop-up "cage," segmented under-floor storage bins, and shopping-bag hooks. Cabin storage includes a generously sized glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.8 |
It's cost-cut crude in places and less fun to drive than it looks, but Vibe is a versatile, practical compact. Available all-wheel drive is a nice find in this class. GT models offer sportier moves, but sacrifice too much ride comfort in the process.
Total Score
| Base 1.8, manual | Base 2.4, automatic | AWD Base 2.4 | GT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 56 | 58 | 55 | 55.2 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Compact Cars
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