Enhancing the experience are controls that are easy to reach and use. Audio controls are located at the top of the center stack. Three big dials are used to control the heating/air-conditioning system.
The Vibe AWD model with the automatic isn't as quick as the front-drive model with the manual gearbox, but it responded nicely when we needed it to kick down for passing or for pulling onto freeways. On the downside, the AWD model gets slightly lower fuel economy and has a smaller fuel tank than the five-speed base model. The all-wheel-drive system is made up of lightweight aluminum components, so a Vibe AWD weighs just 198 pounds more than a base model with automatic transmission. Under normal conditions the system drives the front wheels only, but a viscous coupling can send up to 50 percent of the driving torque rearward if the front wheels start slipping. Pontiac expects 10 percent of Vibe buyers to opt for this model.
The Vibe GT qualifies for pocket-rocket status. Pontiac says the Vibe GT will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 8.5 seconds, compared to 9 or 10 seconds for the base car and 11.5 for the AWD. The division expects 13 percent to choose the GT.
The GT's engine also displaces 1.8 liters, but they are arranged a different way. A massage by the performance mavens at Yamaha shortened the stroke while increasing the bore. Compression is boosted from 10.0 to 11.5:1 (requiring premium fuel), and the engine computer regulates valve lift as well as timing, a setup called VVTL-i. The payback is 180 horsepower at 7600 rpm and 130 pounds-feet of torque at 6800. (By comparison, Ford's much-acclaimed Focus SVT produces 170 horsepower and 145 pounds-feet.) The Vibe GT engine is the same unit that powers Toyota's Celica GTS, but in the Pontiac it comes with room for four people and their stuff.
Rev the Vibe GT to 6000 rpm, and the VVTL-i system kicks in a higher-lift, longer-duration cam lobe. It feels like a turbocharger that's spooling up and pumping air, or like lighting the afterburners. We drove the car hard and fast on canyon roads west of Los Angeles, where we found it quick, stable and predictable. We also liked the exhaust note. The engine seems an odd match for this wagon, though. It seems like it would be better in a sporty compact. At times, we wondered what this little wagon was trying to be. The suspension felt too firm and bouncy for hauling fragile items or pets.
Coupled to the Vibe GT's engine is a six-speed manual gearbox. The GT rides on the same twist-beam rear axle as the base model, but gets four-wheel disc brakes and ABS. Next Page