Outward visibility is fairly good forward. The A-pillars are small enough to see around without craning and the sloping hood gives a good close-in view of everything but the car itself. The view straight back isn't bad, either; there is no center headrest blocking the view and the rear wiper sweeps a good area, but those rear pillars are big.
Regardless of what detailed specifications suggest, the 2009 Vibe is roomier than before inside, with space for four six-footers to ride simultaneously without knees or heads stuck against the car. Although the rear floor is essentially flat you won't put three back there unless waists are 28 inches or less, and if two backseat passengers complain they can always walk.
Despite the loss of a half-inch in rated headroom and four inches in hip room because of measurement standards, the rear seat is generally bigger than before. We put a pair of 6-foot, 3-inch riders back there who reported satisfactory head clearance. There are three belts, though all three can be used simultaneously only by kids and waif-like models. The rear-seat floor is almost flat with only a slight rise up to the console.
Cargo space is a usable 20 cubic feet. Additional space is provided by compartments below the floor. Folding the rear seatbacks more than doubles the space. Both the seatbacks and floor have skid-resistant plastic runners so the tie-down points don't do all the work in cargo retention. The right front seatback folds flat, providing space for long, slender objects. Trunk area covers are optional, and a wise investment to conceal valuables. Next Page