2008 Pontiac Vibe Base model 1.8 Gas from North America

Summary:

Small wagon that runs with the big dogs!

Faults:

I bought this car brand new at a local Pontiac dealer.

I have had '0' problems with my Vibe.

I bought it with 56 miles on it.

I have driven it relentlessly till now, racking up 36,000 miles in less than 2 years.

Only oil and filter changes so far.

General Comments:

Interior configurations, plus fold down front passenger seat make this the most flexible hauler around.

I use my power outlet on the dash for everything from cellphones to shavers.

It is only a Front Wheel Drive model, but was very competent even in heavy snow.

The shift throw is too long and a bit stiff, I will eventually get a short shifter installed.

After installing a performance exhaust, it is much quicker off the line.

Toyota power train plus GM warranty and roadside assist were a good bet, I have used the unlock service.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st September, 2009

2008 Pontiac Vibe 1.8 Gas from North America

Summary:

Not your father's Pontiac

Faults:

The rear hatch takes on water when you hit it with a hose. It gets past the weather stripping that runs along the bottom of the hatch glass, I'll be taking it in for repair shortly.

General Comments:

Love it so far!

I do wish it had a telescoping steering wheel (the '09s do). It just seems to far away when I have the seat where I like it. I've gotten used to driving with my legs a little bent.

The center armrest is WAY too low, but that can be easily replaced with a center armrest from an '03 or '04.

I really can't comment on the performance aspect, as I didn't buy it for it's 0-60 times. But it can haul a ton o' crap! My best load so far...2 full sized cornhole boards, golf bag, 3 ball bowling bag, 2 full duffel bags with plenty of room to spare. My biggest single item was a lazy boy recliner. I'm planning on moving a love seat next month... should fit with the rear gate closed.

I routinely get 36 mpgs driving the speed limit. The sticker says 26 city and 31 highway, but I don't see how.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th August, 2008

26th Dec 2011, 21:56

This is an update on my previous review. I now have 130,000 miles on the Vibe in 3 1/2 years. I had the ECU go bad at just under 100,000 miles, about a week after I got a recall notice for it! I took it into a GMC dealer, and it was replaced for free of course, and they covered the tow.

The water pump went up at about 105,000 miles, and the replacement pump I installed from Auto Zone failed about 6 months later... the pulley literally fell off. I still manage 36 MPG, and on long drives to the beach, I approach 40 MPG. This has been a great car all things considered; only the water pump failing in 130,000 miles.