http://www.theautochannel.com/....htmlsome various quotesQuote »CR tested the Mazda5 against the Pontiac Vibe, Chrysler PT Cruiser, and Chevrolet HHR. The Vibe and PT Cruiser earned “Very Good†overall scores, while the HHR received a “Good†score....Based on the excellent Mazda3 small sedan platform, the Mazda5 is styled like a minivan complete with sliding rear doors, but it is smaller than a conventional van. With seating for six in three rows, the vehicle offers some of the flexibility and versatility of a traditional minivan in a more compact package. The Mazda5 Touring ($22,615 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 157-hp, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers adequate acceleration but lacks reserve power for passing, climbing steep grades, and carrying a full load. The four-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive. Braking performance was very good overall. The interior is spacious and airy. But the third-row seat is useful only for small children—and then only if both second-row passengers move their seats forward.The Pontiac Vibe and its twin, the Toyota Matrix, are tall wagons based on the Toyota Corolla. The Vibe’s compact dimensions, versatile interior, and good fuel economy make it a handy, nimble, and economical runabout. But a flawed driving position and a boomy engine detract from the vehicle’s overall performance. The Vibe is also the only vehicle in this group available with all-wheel-drive. The Vibe ($19,960 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 130-hp, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that provides adequate acceleration. The four-speed automatic transmission downshifts energetically and makes the Vibe feel responsive. Braking was very good overall. The 60/40-split rear seats easily fold in one step for extra cargo room. With the rear seats folded, the Vibe holds 26.5 cubic feet of cargo.the 5-speed Pontiac Vibe is rated at 30 city/36 highway, while the Mada5 5-speed is rated at 22 city /27 highway,(US miles per gallon for the 2006 model year, per fueleconomy.gov) I know to a lot of you power is king and most important, but 33% is a significant difference to me, and quite a Vibe incentive. I mean, that's why I bought a Vibe in the first place.I know some here have complained about it, but i have never found the Vibe's driving position to be "faulty"