There's also plenty of places to tuck stuff away. Vibe provides nearly a dozen interior storage containers, nine of which keep contents out of view. There's even a compartment behind the base of the back seat, where an umbrella or fishing rods can be kept in a covered pocket. The rear window on the Vibe's hatchback opens independently, so you can reach your stuff without having to open the entire hatch.
XM Satellite Radio ($325) is a great option for long-distance traveling because the stations don't change as you drive across the country. XM Satellite Radio is nice to have around town for listening to the 24-hour news and sports broadcasts, or for staying tuned into your favorite types of music (classical, jazz, '50s, '60s, '70s, '80s).
The optional DVD-based navigation system works well and has a split-screen feature so you can see both the detail of your immediate locale as well as your location in relation to a larger, metropolitan area. However, it isn't cheap ($1,650).
OnStar works like a navigation system but there's nothing to program. Press the button and a live human responds, ready to give you directions, locate the nearest sushi bar or send flowers to your mom. Through the miracle of satellite navigation, OnStar always knows the location of your vehicle. The staff will direct the rescue squad to your car if your airbag goes off and you do not respond to their calls. Or you can press the emergency button and they'll send out the troops. OnStar is good for lesser emergencies, too, like unlocking your doors when you lock the keys inside or directing you to the nearest gas station or ATM or Starbucks. If your vehicle is stolen, OnStar can pinpoint its location and direct the authorities to apprehend and recover. Next Page