2009 Pontiac Vibe news, pictures, and information

REDESIGNED 2009 PONTIAC VIBE MOVES TO NEW BEAT, OFFERS STYLISH FUNCTIONALITY IN SMALL CROSSOVER

Packing more off-the-line power than ever before, the '09 Vibe delivers the type of responsive performance needed to safely navigate those unexpected everyday driving situations. A 132-horsepower (98 kW) 1.8L DOHC four-cylinder is standard on base models and delivers 128 lb.-ft. (178 Nm) of torque. The engine benefits from dual variable valve timing, optimizing both performance and efficiency, and is matched to a standard five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic.

Customers desiring higher performance can opt for the larger, 2.4L DOHC engine wîth 158 horsepower (118 kW) and 162 lb.-ft. (219 Nm) of torque. The 2.4L engine is standard on AWD and GT models, and is available on the base model.

A four-speed automatic transmission is standard on the AWD. Customers of the 2.4L-equipped base or GT models can choose between a standard five-speed manual transmission or a new, five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission featuring Driver Shift Control (DSC), which delivers a great combination of performance, fuel economy and smoothness. With DSC, the driver can manually select gears via tap up/tap down controls.

Fuel economy

With the 1.8L engine and the standard manual transmission, EPA fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway; wîth the automatic, fuel economy is estimated at 25 in the city and 31 on the highway.

The 2.4L-equipped Vibe and Vibe GT are estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway wîth the manual transmission and 21 city/29 highway wîth the five-speed automatic. On the AWD model, the 2.4L/four-speed automatic combination delivers an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway.

Ride and handling

Driving dynamics of the new Vibe have been refined to deliver a responsive driving experience, wîth a special focus on reduced noise, vibration and harshness. An array of chassis control systems enhances ride and handling, as well as safety.

The Vibe has a body-integral structure wîth underbody rails running from front to rear, giving the structure exceptional strength and a strong foundation on which to anchor the suspension systems. All models employ a MacPherson-strut front suspension design; additionally, the GT adds an integrated tower-to-tower damper for even more responsive handling. The base model has a torsion-beam rear suspension that is revised for a more comfortable ride, while the AWD and GT models use a multi-link independent rear suspension for even sharper responses and enhanced driving control.

Four-wheel disc brakes wîth ABS are standard on all Vibe models, as is electronic stability control and traction control. Steering control is augmented wîth an electric power §teering system, providing variable-effort performance and (because there is no engine-driven power §teering pump) enhanced fuel economy.

Exterior design

The Vibe has the looks to back up its performance. With a lean, athletic form, the Vibe's new exterior exemplifies the future of Pontiac. The new Vibe's appearance melds the space-enabling design of a small SÚV wîth a forward-lòòking profile that doesn't sacrifice functionality or fuel economy. It furthers the design pioneered by the original Vibe, launched in 2002.

All of the sheet metal is new, wîth minimal gaps that reinforce the Vibe's tailored appearance. A 'faster' windshield angle contributes to the sleeker look, while large wheels and minimal overhangs give the vehicle an aggressive, firmly planted stance.

'The new Vibe's design is sporty yet completely functional,' said Ron Aselton, chief designer. 'Clean lines, minimal overhangs and wheels pushed to the corners give the vehicle a muscular stance.'

Vibe's three models – base, AWD and GT – are distinguished from one another wîth unique styling cues. For example, the AWD features a standard roof rack perfect for outdoor activities. The GT has its own front fascia – wîth larger fog lamps and lower-fascia air intake – rocker moldings, roof spoiler and a chrome exhaust tip. All models offer distinctive wheel options.

Interior design and features

	Vital Stats
Engine : 1.8 L., 4-cylinder Power: 132 hp Torque: 128 ft-lbs Engine : 2.4 L., 4-cylinder Power: 158 hp Torque: 162 ft-lbs
5-speed Manual, 5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic, 4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Automatic

Like the exterior, the '09 Vibe's interior is all new and has a driver-focused cockpit design more common to sports cars. The controls and gauges were redesigned for easier use, but retain a performance-oriented look and feel; and the interior quality and craftsmanship are reflected in class-leading 4-mm gap/flush tolerances.

Interior material refinement is also stepped up a notch in the new Vibe, wîth a combination of low-gloss materials, varied grains on the instrument panel and other trim components, and satin-metal accents. New, knit-fabric seating surfaces are durable and have a premium look, while GT models are enhanced wîth standard leather-trimmed seats, three-spoke §teering wheel and shift knob. Seating for five is standard on all models.

The Vibe's interior also is loaded wîth standard amenities not typically found in other vehicles in the §egmènt, including a §teering column wîth telescoping/rake adjustability, a 115-volt, three-prong auxiliary power outlet, adjustable headrests at all three second-row seating positions and active front head restraints.

Audio systems