2009 Pontiac Vibe
Special to the Los Angeles Times
OVERVIEW
It’s a spacious hatch (think Chevy HHR, Toyota Matrix) that wants to emanate a crossover, um, vibe. Hence an all-wheel-drive version. Made in a joint GM/Toyota facility, the Vibe also comes as a GT version powered by the same 2.4-liter unit found under the hoods of the Toyota Camry and Scion tC.
Pontiac promises better-quality materials for the new Vibe’s interior. File under sensible and slightly stylish.
UNDER THE HOOD
1.8-liter, four-cylinder 132 hp
2.4-liter, four-cylinder 158 hp
26/32 mph city/highway (2.4-liter, AWD, manual)
OUR TAKE
Not sex on wheels, no striking design, no exceptional philosophy, just good old transportation that should appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Not exactly a vibe - more a slight tingle.
