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Acceleration
"Engines need high rpm to deliver decent power. In most sitations, 126-hp Vibes
feel almost as strong as 164-hp GT and Matrix XRS. Pontiac says base manual-transmission
FWD takes about 9.5 sec 0-60 mph; expect the same of comparable Matrix. Heavier
AWD needs some 11.5 sec. Test Matrix XRS did 8.5 sec 0-60; Vibe GT is similar."
Value
"Any of these wagons is a good alternative to a compact SUV. Their main assets
are high utility, Toyota-reliable engineering, and the available AWD, curtain
side airbags and antiskid system. Rowdy low-torque engines are a big debit, though.
Note that Vibes have higher base prices than comparable Matrixes, but also more
standard features--and, as Pontiacs, tend to carry heavier, more frequent discounts."
Ride
"Varies some with model and equipment, but acceptable with 16-inch wheels, if
rather jittery over patchy pavement and freeway expansion breaks. Optional 17-inch
tires increase harshness."
Economy
"In our tests, 126-hp models with automatic transmission averaged 26.6 mpg, an
AWD 28.4. Expect 22-25 mpg overall for 164-hp models, for which premium-grade
fuel is recommended. Regular OK for other engines. Note that AWD has smaller
fuel tank."
Noise
"All models suffer constant, marked wind rush and coarse-surface tire thrum.
Engines loud at full throttle, none too hushed in gentle cruising. General mechanical
buzz felt through seat, steering wheel, pedals."
Comfort - Front
"Fine driving position slightly higher and much more upright than in typical
small car. Great head room even with sunroof, but long-legged drivers may want
more rearward seat travel. Good overall seat comfort, but spirited cornering
reveals lack of lateral bolstering. Outward visibility slightly cluttered over
the shoulder, good otherwise."
Comfort - Rear
"Seat comfort nothing special, but two adults enjoy good head clearance. Chairlike
height affords sufficient knee and foot room unless front seats are well back.
Entry/exit pretty easy, but doorsills rather narrow, and doors should open wider."
Controls
"Toyota-designed controls mostly user-friendly, but smallish, deep-set gauges
aren't easy to read in some light conditions, and their bright trim rings can
dazzle. Red night lighting not universally liked. Optional navigation system
absorbs some audio functions, has undersized buttons, and is overly complex;
we'd avoid it. Cabin finish and sturdy materials are in line with prices."
Cargo Room
Liftgate includes handy separate-opening window. Rear seat folds in easy one-handed motion to make a flat load floor. Right front seat also flops down for extra-long items. Cargo bay has tie-downs and built-in tracks for securing gear. Cabin furnishes ample small-item storage.
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