2006 Pontiac Vibe GT review from North America

The only thing that went wrong was the dealer-installed, non-OEM cruise control.

This is one of the most reliable cars I have ever owned. I had the Toyota version first and put over 100,000 miles on it with only routine maintenance. I wanted to compare the union-built product to the non-union built, and I see no significant difference. Sorry to step on toes, whichever foot you are on.

I especially like the seating - it's one of the few small vehicles that lets me sit up high (which is more common in Europe I have heard), which I need for my old joints.

The GT is more fun to drive than my old Matrix automatic - the 6 speed is snappy and the engine redlines near 9K, but I've never been near that. The acceleration is better than the old Matrix auto, but it feels more like a sportscar than it actually is. I got stopped 3 times the first 2 weeks until I finally eased off of the gas pedal.

I have had none of the famous early clutch wear - I think it is how you drive it.

It's a small car though, and the longest trip I have taken in it is 300 miles one way, and that's the limit for my old bones. I have a van for long trips and use my Vibe GT for daily driving and a one-hour (each way) commute.

I replaced the radio with a premium unit, but found that the FM receiver in the OEM radio was significantly superior.