Home News Companies Events Guestbook Golf Contact

Automotive Intelligence - the web for automotive professionals and car enthusiasts
.
Google

Web

autointell.com

November 14, 2007

This Week:

 

 

 

 

© 1998 - 2007 Copyright &
Disclaimer
Automotive Intelligence,
www.autointell.com
All Rights Reserved .
For questions please contact
editor@autointell.net

2009 Pontiac Vibe: All-new version of one of the segment’s most popular small crossovers

DETROIT – The all-new 2009 Pontiac Vibe is a modern re-mix of a classic hit, infusing the functionality of a compact crossover with a bolder attitude of muscular styling, increased performance and tight handling. It arrives in dealer showrooms in early 2008.

Adding a richer harmony to the tune, the popular all-wheel-drive and GT models return to the Vibe lineup. Regardless of the model, each Vibe offers a level of athletic design, boosted performance and everyday versatility uncommon in the price range.

“With the 2009 Vibe, we knew we wanted to take everything we liked about the original and push it to the next level - more power, more style, more versatility,” said Craig Bierley, Pontiac marketing director.

 “It has the interior room and cargo capability expected of a larger SUV, but with the precise handling characteristics you would expect from any Pontiac.”

 

The 2009 Vibe includes a number of all-new and enhanced features, including:

  • More powerful 1.8L base engine and a new, high-output 2.4L engine (optional on the base model, standard on the AWD and GT)

  • Athletic exterior styling with a faster windshield, all-new sheet metal and lighting elements

  • Refreshed, driver-focused interior styling with more harmonious integration of the controls

  • Standard electronic vehicle stability control and tire pressure monitoring systems

  • Six standard air bags

  • Enhanced functionality with integrated cargo management system and fold-flat front seat

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. (174 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 with 158 horsepower (118 kW) and 162 lb.-ft. (224 Nm) of torque. The 2.4L engine is standard on AWD and GT models, and is optional on the base model.

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; with the automatic, fuel economy is estimated at 25 in the city and 31 on the highway.

The 2.4L engine on the GT is estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway with the manual transmission and 21 city/29 highway with 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.

Photos: GM

(Nov. 6, 2007)

.
Homepage   News   Companies   Management   Publications   Events   Guestbook   Search
.