new here and need some opinions

[GeorgeK]

Hello all! I took a test drive today in a 2005 Vibe AWD and I really liked it, though I do have one concern. I was curious how well the all wheel drive model is in deep snow. By deep I mean about 8-10 inches of unplowed snow. I have a Subaru Outback now that does fine in this amount of snow but I've been reading a lot about problems with the head gasket on it and the warranty is almost up so it's time to start looking at something else. I noticed that the Vibe isn't as high off of the ground as the Outback, so I thought I'd see if anyone on this board has driven their AWD in deep snow. Also, what is the typical gas mileage on this model. The sticker said 26 MPG, is it close to that? I'd really like to buy this car (it's Neptune by the way) but I need something that's good in snow. Thanks, and I'm glad to have found this forum

[AKLGT]

well i have a vibe GT that i lowered. i live in alaska and up until the last year, i did fine in the "deep" snow. with the addition of my intake and chip, mine slides all over in the ice and snow. i'll be getting rid of mine this summer/fall for an awd subie (either legacy GT or if i can muster deal for a used STI). why are you getting rid of your outback?the vibe is still a great vehicle. it's very well rounded and practical. i'll miss the cargo space and the versatility, but luckily my hubby has one himself! lol

[AKLGT]

i just joined the subie forums and found out they have an impreza club up here! it looks like it's pretty good size and they just recently had a meet earlier this week. plus, looking through the site, they also show some import/race nights at the local track in palmer! whee!!! now phil's excited.... hope i get some good news tomorrow on that STI i've been drooling on! lol

[AKLGT]

i don't care for the forester. it's fugly to me. but the legacy lmtd gt is what i'd be looking at. with the auto/sport shifter complete w/ steering wheel controls! i checked that out the other day.

[jgvibe]

I've had my AWD vibe two years now. Driven through a few good storms and it got me there safe. The last one they didn't seem to plow untill after I got to work so there was 6 inches or more in spots. The only time I gut stuck is when I got home and hit a pile maybe 12 inches or more. SO if the snow is within a few inches of your bumper forget it! Otherwise it did great.

[Mr. Poopypants]

Well, I have no problem with my FWD. I have driven in some deep snow. But not quite 8-10 inches.

[Thewhite]

I may be wrong, but I think there is a HUGE difference between a Subaru and a AWD Vibe. The Subaru is 4x4 all the time, and become a 2x4 on highway or when the awd is not needed. The AWD Vibe is a front powertrain with the rear one getting on IF the front slip. so your already slipping when the power goes to the rear wheels. I'm leaving in Quebec, where a 12+ inch snowstorm hit us each two weeks in winter, and my next car will be a Subaru. I love my car, but if you want something to drive in snow, keep a Subaru. you already have one, it will be going down the ladder to choise a AWD Vibe, even if I like this baby...

[Ponyota]

Welcome to Genvibe George! I have a 03 GT non AWD. It did pretty good in the snow this winter. I'm sure the AWD's wouldn't have any problems at all in the deep snow. Let us know what you decide.