New Forum Member - Looking Hard at buying Vibe, Questions.

[gnnr]

Heyas, Nice club forum. Just signed on because perhaps now and definately in the next half a year I will be looking for a new car. I currently have a loaded Grand Prix GT2 and am/was a member over at CGP. It only has 15K miles in two years and while it is a great car in my opinion it is time for a change. Honestly it's a PITA to park in NYC some times due to it's size, my wife sits awfully close to the steering wheel (she is 5'), mileage is okay but could be better, and given how little miles we put on it is hard to justify the car payment and insurance. We are down to the Saturn Vue and the Vibe as our vehicle of choice (GM guy). I have seen them up close but haven't as of yet broke down and gone to the dealer for a test ride. That being said I have done the generic review site reading as well as priced out a model we would want. We like it for the AWD, the cabin space and roof rack, mileage, nice looks, and the price. I like it because it is Pontiac and this would be my fifth pontiac (I am turning 36 this year, and I rarely stay with a car more than 3 years and often less than that). So, as you can imagine I have questions and what better place to ask than a owners site/club! On to the show:1) How is the car for headroom? At only 5'10" I actually found the otherwise big and roomy GP tight since I prefer a relatively upright driving position.2) I read a lot of reviews that mention high RPM band engine noise as a concern. How bad is it? Since I am new I haven't had time to search much, but has anyone addressed this through exhaust mods and/or additional sound deadening?3) How is the 'stock' 7 speaker monsoon system. I know they sucked in the GP, but some of that was speaker positioning. Are they worth it or is after market the way to go. I ended up replacing the front speakers and adding a smallish 10" sub and 300W amp (all alpine) in my GP as music is a big part of my wife's life/career and I like to jam when driving.4) How good is the AWD syste? My GP is bloody great in the snow, which surprised me to no end, but with my wife actually driving more than I do and her innexperience and generally bad driving habits/behaviors I want a 'safer' ride for her.5) Any short drivers? REally short drivers? How are you on clearance on the front airbags? As I said, wifey is 5' and since you should have 10 inches or so of buffer space between (removed)/chest and the airbag front I am constantly worried about her safety in the event of an accident that would require/force airbag deployment.6) Speaking of short drivers... how are you on vision out of the vehicle when driving and parking?7) I did some basic mods on my GP (stereo, dash and cabin fit/piece dying, stereo upgrades, cross bars, fenderwell air intake) and while I don't want to do anything that would definately kill the warranty or make it hard to get service under warranty I do like to tinker. How moddable is a Vibe... CAI/FWIs, stereo (harness issues), etc? 8) Reliability? Bear in mind we probably won't be driving it any more, so it wouldn't exactly be seeing a ton of miles. I and my wife do drive rather spirited though (no racing, but I like to get on it and I know she does too).9) Long distance comfort? WE drive our car once or twice a year to Floriday and/or Central Illinois, usually pretty loaded up. Is this a decent long distance driver in terms of comfort, road noise/cabin noise, etc?Besides those rather pointed questions I welcome any general comments on the vehicle as you are the owners with the hands on. Opinions on purchase strategies, discounts, etc are also welcome. Thanks for any replies, and yeah I am searching and reading up on some topics right now

[gnnr]

Couple of other questions... probably dumb ones:- No HUD, right? DIC? Not that a DIC is 'that' useful, but the HUD in my GP is a killer feature honestly. I assume not since I don't see it in the equipment lists or brought up in reviews, but worth asking.- Does the AWD/Gt have a spoiler? I saw the accesories page for GM on the vibe and the top spoiler is kinda nice looking (but that lower one is not my taste at all).- Rims. Are they decent? Again, AWD model fully loaded.- tires? The ones on my GP stock are good in snow but not good in the rain and not particularly performance oriented. How are the stock tires on the Vibe?- Remote start? Dealer option only or can it be had from the factory that way to avoid dealer price and labor rape?

[BlueCrush]

Welcome to GenVibe! I have the 2005 AWD Vibe and these are my thoughts on your questions:1) I am 5'10" also and there is plenty of headroom. It will not be an issue for you.2) The High RPM noise won't be a problem for you since the AWD only rev's to 6400 rpm. I think that the noise others may be referring to the GT model which rev's to 8000+/- rpm which feature lift above 6500 rpm.(Lift is about a 50hp boost by the exhaust cam switching over to a higher profile.)3) Mine is still stock moon & tunes w/monsoon sub. I think it sounds great. It is the best stock sounding system I have heard. I am not a big audiophile though. I do like a great sounding system and I am very happy with this one.4) My AWD system works great. I am lowered 2" and drove on 9" of snow with no problems. I was actually plowing the snow. Your AWD system will be only as good as your tires are in snow. I would recommend gettong a good set of All-season tires as the Vibe's stock tires are crap.5) N/A - My wife is 5'8"6) N/A7) You should be able to add a SR as of now on the 2006 models. Not too sure on the CAI's yet though due to the ETC (Electronically Controlled Throttle). Not sure what you mean by FWI??8) You should have no problems, but just doing regularly scheduled maintenance. I have had my '05 since October of '04 and have had zero issues with it so far (*knocks on wood*).9) Haven't done a long distance trip like that yet but have driven for 3 hours nonstop and it was plenty comfortable for me. Road noise is all about the tires, get a good set of tires and it shouldn't be too much of an issue. There will be some road noise though regardless sine the vibe is a cheaper car but it is not an issue. Especially when you have the Moons & Toons crankin'. Cabin noise I can hear a some wind noise with everything off but not too bad for me. You can definitely have a soft talking conversation without a cabin noise problem.There was a GM in the driveway certificate discount that people were using. Not sure if it is still available or where you can get one. I'm sure others will chime in about that.Again, Welcome to GenVibe and we hope you enjoy your stay!And don't forget to buy the Neptune Blue Vibe!

[BlueCrush]

- Nope, no heads up display. I love that feature in my wifes Aztec. The interior is the best part of hte Aztek. Mainly, because when you are on the inside you don't have to look at the exterior. - I also, have the upper spoiler only on my AWD. I also didn't care for the mid-spoiler, so I bought the kit with poth spoilers in it and sold off the mid-spoiler to another GenVibe member.- The 16" alloy rims are pretty decent for being stock.- Again, Vibes stock tires are crap. Get a good set of all season. - I believe remote start is a dealer application only.

[gnnr]

good stuff, keep it coming folks.FWI = Fenderwell Intake. Upside is cooler air than a 'CAI' (which in many opinions is really a HAI or Hot Air Intake since it is grabbing air inside the engine compartment, at least on the GP). downside is that it places the cone inside the fenderwell (front, ahead of tire) and this can be an issue if you have to go through deep water for a reason, plus it gets dirtier faster there. But it is always nice and cool air. Wish they offered the Gt with an auto... .does the spoiler get in the way of the roof rack and items you might load there?

[BlueCrush]

Hot air intake would be the Short-Ram Air Intake.The FWI is the CAI for our cars down behind the fender well.The spoiler is cut so that it does not interfere with the roof rack at all.

[gnnr]

How would you term the performance on your AWD? Peppy? Boring? Quick? And what tires are folks switching over to away from the stockers? How bad are the stockers? I hate the idea of getting a car and immediately having to cough up half a grand to a grand for 'decent' tires.Are there CAI kits for the vibe and is it worth it on the AWD given the rev limit and lower HP apparently?

[viberationz]

I'm probably not the best person to answer these questions but I will answer them to the best of my knowledge.1) As for head room - the Vibe is known for the bigger cabin and I am only 5'2" and depending on how I adjust the seat (it can go quite low when needed, and the dial allows for it to go up quite a ways - which I need) it can really vary. Although I have had some 6' guys drive the Vibe and they think head room is great - it's very 'spacious'. I feel even when you've got a passenger you still seem to have your own space - which most cars feel pretty tight.2) As far as engine/exhaust noise - I have the GT model with up-graded exhaust for it to be loud - so I have ALOT of road noise. Matter of personal preference... 3) The stock stereo is pretty good - I have also up-graded it all. Stock was nothing too fancy - but it does the trick.4) Sorry can't help you out on the AWD Model I have the GT - I also park it for the winter.5) As I mentioned I am 5'2" and I find the Vibe fits me really well, the seat adjustments in this car do wonders. And its a quick second turn of the dial and a 6' person can jump right in and feel equally as comfortable. I have difficulty in ALOT of vehicles - but the Vibe is perfect-o for shorties.6) Blind spots are not too bad in the Vibe - after nearly 2 years driving it is just like walking. I often drive a 2000 Grand AM and a 2003 Chev 1500 - both don't even compare to the visability in the Vibe - I think alot of it has to do with me being so short and the Vibe's seat adjustments. I feel confident behind the wheel of my Vibe anyways.7) As far as modding the Vibe - when I first bought mine I was really frusterated trying to find ANYTHING aftermarket. Today there is alot more available - most people put CAI and exhaust on their Vibe's. There is a perf. chip available - and I have heard both positive and negative feedback - have not yet to try one out myself. Body mod's are getting greater by the day, but it is definitly no Honda Civic.8) Like I said I feel very confident behind the wheel of my Vibe - and alot of us here like to get up and go. I also do not do a ton of driving but when I do I like to make the most out of it - my Vibe has yet to disapoint me.9) I did mention the road noise in my Vibe is ridiculous due to the big fart can addition, passengers find it quite annoying on long trips. Stock though - it was reletivly quiet. It is an extremly comfortable ride - and these stock seats were really made well, haven't experienced sore back yet. And if you are making long trips you will be extremly pleased with the amount of room inside the Vibe. All seats (except drivers) will fold front-wards making almost a flat interior. I manage to pile in ALOT of crap inside there - even with the big stereo box. Although the back-seat is not quite long enough to lay down in for a nap - even at 5'2".10) As far as the HUD/DIC question - I don't even know what that is... Told you I'm not exactly the best person to be answering these questions. Just trying to help and give you my personal opinion...11) The spoiler can come with the Vibe - depending on what package you buy. And if you buy the Vibe without the spoiler package - yes you can purchase it seperatly. To stand out from the rest of them - there are a few options as far as spoilers, hoods, body kits, etc.12) Can't help you much on the rim question - My GT came with the 17" and I only use them when the Vibe is parked. I have up-graded to 19" and I did just get a new set of 18" chromies - both 19" and 18" have a minor rub on the fender wall, nothing that interfers with my driving. I have no idea how the Vibe would handle on 15" or 16" wheels but the handling on this car is real decent even stock. I believe there are a few different tire/rim options when you buy the Vibe.13) Stock I had Dunlop tires on the Vibe, I believe directionals. Nothing you would want to even attempt to use in the winter. The winter tires for my 17" stock rims are ridiculously over-priced, therfor have not purchased any yet. Preferably I have a set of summer perf. directionals, and a set of some nice winter ice grippies... Again not much a help here - just more personal opinion and experience...14) As far as remote start goes - I chose not to have one in my 6-SPD. Heard a few horror stories and never went with one in my Vibe - only have an after-market Ungo alarm.Well I know I wasn't much of a help, but I did my best to tell you how "I" personally feel about my Vibe... Good luck with making your decision (try not to get too big a headache in the process).

[gnnr]

What kind of box are you using in that open cabin on your sub(s). I have a nice 10" alpine setup and the box is convertable with a gasgetted seal for ported or closed... it probalby will come over unless the monsoon really impresses (which from the sound of things it generally doesn't for those really into music).

[gnnr]

Brian, I was looking at your car domain pages. What is that mod you did on the center console?

[viberationz]

This is half of my set-up (file attachment). It's a pretty big box - and with only two 10" Alpine Type R's (glad to see another Alpine fan out there!) I manage to hit 147.7DB. The air-space in these cars is great, and not to mention there is so much plastic interior the sound just bounces right back at you. I have had this same exact set-up in a few different rides and nothing compares to sticking inside my Vibe. I have although replaced all of my factory speakers. For some, the factory set-up does them just fine, and it does go as a selling feature. But when you are really into your BOOM BOOM - up-grades are out there. I had the factory navigation and couldn't for the life of me figure out how to use it - so I ended up spending a hefty dollar on Pioneer's AVIC-N1 head-unit (nav/dvd/mp3... RCA hookups).

Attached files

[viberationz]

Out of curiousty I went to check out what he was talking about - Isn't the center console with storage lid just how it comes? I know mine is like that and I never changed a thing.

[BlueCrush]

If you are talking about the center console lid. I found a lid from an '04 and changed it out. The '05+ models only have a single lid. The '03 -'04 models have a double lid which works very nicely for me.

[gnnr]

Factory NAV? Wish they had one for this year/model. that is one feature that had me really considering upgrading to a 06/07 GP (GXP maybe) before I came to my financial senses. I have single 10" type E so nothing really showy or worth bragging about. always have loved alpine honestly, and if we were to buy the GP I would switch out the rest of the stock components and HU to alpine as well (what a pain to get the steering wheel controls to work, SWIX units and programming and crud). Speaking of which, shame there is no steering based HU controls on the high end stereo/model. going to miss that too.

[viberationz]

I'm not a vehicle expert but isn't the Grand Prix pretty close to the Grand AM - Just a little fancier with some more HP? If it is - I could say some minor comparisons from the Grand AM to the Vibe.I honestly don't know if my '03 Nav Unit would work on a newer Vibe - but I wouldn't hesitate letting it go. It was used for the first 18,000KM and has sat in a box since then.

[gnnr]

I had an 00 Grand Am and several GPs. Not really that close other than shared body lines and styling cues as seen in most pontiac vehicles. The GP is wider, longer, smoother, more powerful, with slightly better fitment, better sight lines, better seats in front (rear GP seats in 04 and up arguably SUCK), and much bigger trunk. The GP is a damned good sedan IMHO, sporty and powerful with good mileage and appointments... it has weaknesses, like the anemic audio and poor rear seats and monotone interior of questionable fit/quality (give the price point in 04). Motor is rock solid with tons of toque and pickup, but the electronic throttle takes some getting used to and the aftermarket for the NA engines is weak really.

[mcgusto82]

1) head room is great on the vibe. i'm also 5.10. i can say there's about another 8 inches above my head while sitting in. then again, i also keep the seats all the way down. 2) the base engine (5 speed, and awd) is loud for a 4 cylinder. nothing too loud, i haven't even felt like there was anything to fix, and i'm always moding something.3) my 5 speed is an 04. the premium sound is the 6 speaker (no sub for that year) i liked it. i upgraded bauause i wanted mp3 play back. i hear the 06 premium plays mp3. another thing to consider, you said you want navigation? then go aftermarket. the avic d1 or avic z1. both are peioneer 2 din nav system, which are awesome. they cost 1k+ and 2.2k, respectively4) i don't know about the awd, but the 5speed fwd is great on the snow. i live in yonkers ny, no problems with the snow5) my wife is 5.6, she hasn't complaint about the vibe. i usually complaint when i have to get in after her. i forget the seat is really close to the steering wheel, and i go.. urgh!!! 6) vision out the front is good, however out the back. it's bad. whenver i take the vibe into nyc, i always park at a garage. the vibe rear vision is cut short because it's hatch. you can always install rear park sensors. i did. check my car domain to look at them. they help inmensly with parking.7) moderate modding is simple and feseable. the vibe doesn't have as much support as the matrix does from the aftermarket. with a little ingenuity, you can make anything happen.8) the vibe has been good to me for the 1.5 yrs i've had it. 9) the front seats are good for the 400 mile trip to va my wife and i do. the rears aren't. not for adults anyways. the seats are too upright. i have a 10 month old boy, and his car seat fits great in the back. don't know if you have kids. my boy was an important factor in me buying the vibe.

[joatmon]

Quote, originally posted by gnnr » I and my wife do drive rather spirited though (no racing, but I like to get on it and I know she does too).imho, the Vibe handles great, even stock. I have a 5-speed vibe, has plenty of pep for meYou are looking at an AWD vibe, which has the lowest HP and MPG numbers for a Vibe, Great to ask questions and learn all you can about it before you buy, but you really need to take a test drive. There are some people here who feel that the AWD Vibe has unacceptably low power. Me, I don't need a lot of power out of a car, so I'm no judge. Just be sure to take a realistic test drive, because as much as we'd like you to buy and enjoy a Vibe, we'd rather you buy a car that you will be happy with, even if it's not a Vibe. Everybody's got a different perception of how much power is satisfactory, so only you can make that judgement for yourself.Today would be a good day for you to go check out the AWD's performance, looks like NJ is getting some non-trivial snow today, but dealers probably are reluctant to let people go for long test drives on such days. But soon, take a test drive of all the candidate vehicles, both of you.

[joholste]

ummm as far as comfortability... i can attest that it is very comfortable on long distance drives... twice a year i used to drive from fort bragg, NC to kansas City stopping for the night in Nashville. which is an 1100 mile trip.. and this past christmas i drove from fort bragg to Stillwater, OK (1200 mile) and then two days later from stillwater to Kansas city which is another 300 miles.

[gnnr]

Good stuff! Yeah, I am suspecting that the AWD is anemic power wise. I don't need nor want a rocket, but I don't want to be straining to pass on the HWY or creeping from the line after the light changes. The GP is peppy and rushes real well to 80 or so and takes off from the line well so I guess it is the measuring stick. Since we are over the 13" mark so far and in the 16 to 24" band with hours left of snow to get I don't think I am going out today... got a 3' tall pile of snow in front of my driveway and 2' drifts next to my car... blech.

[ToolGuy]

Big difference from a GP to a Vibe...Keep in mind, adding a CAI will give you even more engine noise. The engine noise does not bother me or my wife and I do not think it is excessive. No DIC, Vibes never had one. Where we live, the non-AWD is just fine for us and when power counts, I wanted more power over AWD any way. Also just a tilt wheel, no telescoping. I have read articles criticizing this, although it does not bother me.

[djb383]

We had a '02 Grand Prix GT (wife's car) and had a chance to drive a Vibe. Put the GPGT in the Monday paper, sold it on Tuesday and bought a Vibe on Wednesday (wife's car) and six weeks later I sold my p/u and bought a second Vibe (my car). The GPGT was a great car, but the only thing we miss about it is the 3.8 V6, untill we pull the Vibes into the gas station to fill up.

[gnnr]

Love the 3800 Series III... great motor, very reliable and very moddable. And it gets about 30 to 31mpg on the HWY for us.

[MetalBulldog]

I have had alot of cars and can't beleive what I am reading. You are comparing a Grand Prix with a Vibe! A V6 to a 4-banger. I went from a Pathfinder to my 04 Vibe. 4X4 to 2wd, night and day but I love my Neptune Vibe. 1st thing, Saturn Vue= Boring, you'll hate it after the first week. 2nd, if you don't live in a place where you need AWD then DON'T GET IT! It is a waste of money. We just got two feet of snow here in Connecticut and my Vibe with the ORIGINAL, NEW Conti's have no problem with this crap! Seeing as though the Vibe is REALLY a TOYOTA with a prettier face, I suggest that you unload the GP and buy a Neptune Vibe. Have Fun!!

[binary]

Hey GNNR, great thread... I love all the questions - and by the time I read through the thread - you've seen how helpful many of our members are... Our family went from a Ford Escape (v-6 full loaded AWD) and a Ford Contour (V-6 SE Sport) to two base '05 5 speed Vibes.My wife is about 5'10", and I'm 6'2" - the vibe fits us both very well. We also found that the specs of the vibe are almost the same as the Escape - ground clearence, interior room, and almost on cargo.I think you'll need to really test drive the car you're interested it. We've only driven in snow a couple of times this year... and so far, the vibe's been almost as responsive as the Contour... the AWD Escape was a dream in the snow. I won't compare - because they are in different classes. I do miss the horsepower - but I can skip filling the tank a lot more often!So if you get a lot of snow, and don't mind a little less horsepower - AWD is a good way to go.However, if you're rarely in the snow (hard to think of on a day like today ) go with the 2wd and 5 speed. The automatic is nice, but with less horsepower - it's nice to have more control over your shift points.Anyway - I've been really happy with the fit and finish of the car - except the paint. (search the forums...) Although rumor has it that NUMMI (the manufacturing plant making Vibes and Matrix) has redesigned the paint systems this year to improve this.I too love the 3800 series motors... great to work on, tough running, and efficient when not beat on day in and day out. Plus they have a great sound to them. Supercharged only makes them more fun!

[ColonelPanic]

Any consideration for the Torrent, as I see the Vue is also on the list and it is on the same platform? I had one for a week when the transmission died on my Vibe, it was a wonderful ride...

[viberationz]

I think comparing vehicles or any make/model is acceptable - alot of it is personal preference. What would be so wrong in comparing the interior (head room) between two vehicles? I didn't see a comparison with engines.I think alot of the concern here is head-room and interior design of the Vibe. Handling has been questioned (factory ofcourse)... Alot of this is a matter of personal preference - get what suits your needs. Most of us here would say a thumbs up to the Vibe, but in the end - get what makes you happy and suits your needs - there is a vehicle out there for everybody!

[MetalBulldog]

You are absolutely right! Go with what you like by your needs. This forum is about helping people through personal preferences and we all happen to prefer Vibes (most of us).

[AndyLT1]

I just bought an AWD Vibe. At lower speeds it seems to have enough power. At highway speeds is when I notice the lack of power. Other than that I love it. It has plenty of room inside, we just moved a dresser and a bunch of other stuff for a friend. I would definitely recommend the car.

[gnnr]

Honestly I love Pontiac but the Torrent just is NOT attractive... the Vue is plain but I like the drive train (sans electric steering), it gets good mileage, plenty of power and ammenities inside on the whole... but it is blah (and I don't like the looks of the redline at all) I agree plus it's mileage isn't quite as good and it is pricier.I realize that teh Vibe will be a less zippy/peppy ride compared to my GP. But to me the benefits outweight the few negatives.Lets see if I got it right:Vibe ProsAcceptable in town power.Decent ride and road noise except possibly over rough roads.Good handlingExcellent mileage.Good engine reliablityGood build quality on the whole (paint issues however)Dececnt interior that feels better than the price point.Ecellent interior space and ability to haul stuff, lots of stuff.Decent sight lines forward and to the sidesGood seating comfort up front and okay in backLots of good interior load options and storageGood looksVibe Negatives:Paint questions.Ride noise and comfort issuesNoisey exhaust/engine note at high revs.Anemic power in the high end at highway or better speedsQuestionable tires depending on what is installedOkay but not booming stereo system (but except for a few Ford high end offerings this is common so not a big deal)Limited view out the rear tailgate.GT engine is stick only and needs lots of driver attention, lobe valve shift at high RPMs is discerting at timesMissing Elements:No Nav (possible mod)No HUD (a feature I really will miss)No steering wheel stereo controlsNo telescoping wheelNo adjustable pedalsNo heated seats (mod one or two if I get one)No back up sensors (interesting given the tailgate design and somewhat/possibly limited rear views) (mod one or two)What can I add to the lists?If I go with the Vibe, and I lean heavily towards it, I would want to do some mods. Possibly audio mods, definately add some rear back up sensors and maybe a rear camera (wife is short), add some seat heaters up front, add in the second 12V outlet in the console, maybe springs and definately cross bars, maybe tires (depends on how good/bad they are), tint, maybe debage or at least partially debage. Other mods may be a CAI, paint front grills, etc. Nothing extensive or that would ruin the chances of warranty support. I have been reading up on some of the problems and possible fixes to things like the exhaust noise (have to hear it first, but still). Other than that I dunno.

[viberationz]

Another thing to add - The back seat is quite high - Kid's love it as they can actually see out the windows. I also personally think that the visability through the back is great - again just my personal opinion. But it has been one of the better ones I have noticed, and keep in mind I am 5'2". I find that blind spots are not much of an issue when driving my Vibe.As far as concerns with the paint - I have not read up much on them. But I do have alot of chipping on the hood - and a factory run, which is hard to see unless you really look closely and if your like me you examine your car top to bottom weekly (got to hate that habit sometimes). I also have quite the damage below my doors - could be from banging dirt and what not off shoes on the side of the car - but it is something I need to invest in fixing.I'm not too sure what the rear back up sensors are - but on my 03 Vibe GT 6 SPD - when I pop her into reverse (top far left) it beeps - must think it's a semi or something, don't know if the other Vibes do it. There are back up lights in the bumper - no too sure if I know what these sensors are...

[gnnr]

At 5'2" how close do you end up sitting to the wheel and front airbag? I constantly worry about my wife at 5' (she is petite but busomy to boot) getting too close and suffering injury or getting knocked out even from the airbag on deployment.

[viberationz]

Sounds like your wife and myself have similar build. Boobs get in the way of everything... HA! To be honest I feel safe in my car - but I lean way back - oh so gangsta'. It's by far one of the most comfortable cars I have driven' and I can actually reach the pedels comfortably... People can also see my whole face when I drive my Vibe - when I'm in the pick-up it's just these eyes peering over the steering wheel.

[chrisp]

Most important. Its really a Toyota Corolla underneath ! Reliability ! Bullettproof ! Can you say 'last forever'

[IMakeVibes]

WOW! Lots of great questions as well as answers. Looks like you research your purchases just about as well as I do before buying.If you definitely want an AWD Vibe, you should think about ordering or buying one within the next few months. This is the last year of production for the AWD and GT and the '07s will start production at the end of July. Also, if you do end up getting another GM vehicle (and btw, I say keep the GP as I also have one and love it!) you might want to ask around on here first. There are a few GM employees on here who are able to share (if they choose to) a GM in the Driveway (GMID), discount which gets most GM vehicles at supplier prices. This isn't quite as good as employee prices, but its better than nothing and saves a few hundred $$$ on Vibes.

[joatmon]

Quote, originally posted by chrisp »Most important. Its really a Toyota Corolla underneath ! Reliability ! Bullettproof ! Can you say 'last forever' sorry, but I can't

[joholste]

Quote, originally posted by joatmon »sorry, but I can'tha ha yah joat a few people have definitely gotten bad ones i don't know how but there are a few of em in every batch, sorry guys

[gnnr]

Yeah, when you are talking this kind of money (or any major purchase over about 1500 bucks) I do my research well in advance. I think it is important to know everything you can going in, especially with car dealers and salespeople as they rarely know as much as an informed consumer does... too easy to get BSed otherwise.Well, if someone wants to throw an In the Driveway cert at me in the next few months I wouldn't be turning it down. Someone over at CGP hooked me up on the Grand Prix when I was researching there and it made a notable difference on car payments, especially since I was trading in at a slight loss./carry over on the Mustang V6 I owned at the time (and hated)... it was a godsend really, and since wifey and I are trying to save up to adopt every penny counts (part of the reason to move down in the price ladder a bit and save more in us looking towards a Vibe for our next car).I am hoping to get some hints on incentive programming for the next few months here from a marketing person I know (outside contract to GM)... might help me time this better... she was good last time but GM as we all know is not throwing around steep discounts/rebates like before with their new price model.

[tnpartsguy]

1) How is the car for headroom? At only 5'10" I actually found the otherwise big and roomy GP tight since I prefer a relatively upright driving position.I'm 6'3 and even with the sunroof, I have more headroom in this car than anything I have driven in several years2) I read a lot of reviews that mention high RPM band engine noise as a concern. How bad is it? Since I am new I haven't had time to search much, but has anyone addressed this through exhaust mods and/or additional sound deadening?You're looking at the AWD, don't worry about high RPM, you won't be using them very often3) How is the 'stock' 7 speaker monsoon system. I know they sucked in the GP, but some of that was speaker positioning. Are they worth it or is after market the way to go. I ended up replacing the front speakers and adding a smallish 10" sub and 300W amp (all alpine) in my GP as music is a big part of my wife's life/career and I like to jam when driving.I have a '03 without the extra sub, and the stereo is fine....of course I've added the Toyota AM/FM/CD/Cassette unit, and an XM Skyfi 2, plus I use a tape adapter for my iPod4) How good is the AWD syste? My GP is bloody great in the snow, which surprised me to no end, but with my wife actually driving more than I do and her innexperience and generally bad driving habits/behaviors I want a 'safer' ride for her.As stated before, the AWD system is as good as the tires, I suggest dumping the OEM tires ASAP, and putting either the Goodyear Triple-Tred, the Kumho version of the same, or the Yokohama version. I personally have Bridgestone G009's and they love the wet weather5) Any short drivers? REally short drivers? How are you on clearance on the front airbags? As I said, wifey is 5' and since you should have 10 inches or so of buffer space between (removed)/chest and the airbag front I am constantly worried about her safety in the event of an accident that would require/force airbag deployment.My wife is 5'3 approx 105 lbs, the steering wheel adjusts down where she feels fine driving the car; on another note, the steering wheel should 'aim' the airbag at the chest, not the face, even at 12 inches you will get some flash-burn from the air-bag IF they ever get deployed6) Speaking of short drivers... how are you on vision out of the vehicle when driving and parking? My wife says there is a blind spot from the C-pillars, BUT it's not nearly as bad as her old Firebird, so she forgives it7) I did some basic mods on my GP (stereo, dash and cabin fit/piece dying, stereo upgrades, cross bars, fenderwell air intake) and while I don't want to do anything that would definately kill the warranty or make it hard to get service under warranty I do like to tinker. How moddable is a Vibe... CAI/FWIs, stereo (harness issues), etc? A few of the interior pieces are shoddy, the ealry cars had a piece on the door panel that your leg rubbed the 'chrome' off of, but Graphixwerks has a replacement overlay now. There is stuff out there, just research the site to figure out what serves your needs best. Doesn't NJ follow CA emissions now? How hard is it to get a modded car past the AIR board?8) Reliability? Bear in mind we probably won't be driving it any more, so it wouldn't exactly be seeing a ton of miles. I and my wife do drive rather spirited though (no racing, but I like to get on it and I know she does too).My right foot weighs 40 lbs....I like to drive 'spiritedly' and the IRS suspension that the AWD gets (lesser Vibes have to make do with a beam rear axle) makes curves a pleasure. No Major problems on my car, other than the crappy paint9) Long distance comfort? WE drive our car once or twice a year to Floriday and/or Central Illinois, usually pretty loaded up. Is this a decent long distance driver in terms of comfort, road noise/cabin noise, etc?longest trip so far has been to OH last year for the con, was fine, We have also driven to Bristol TN for the night race, and my wife has driven the car to MS a few times, so I can't really tell you......Mavrik drove his a LONG way last year, loaded to the gills, without any problems PS, this is my 1100th POST! WooT! the Vibe

[ColonelPanic]

Quote, originally posted by chrisp »Most important. Its really a Toyota Corolla underneath ! Reliability ! Bullettproof ! Can you say 'last forever' Can you say, I have to agree with Joatmon? An automatic tranny destroyed at 63K, severe engine knocks since 30K, four air conditioning compressors, a power steering pump, loss of coolant since 15K, leaking moonroof since day one, uhhh... Much more. 67K and it is close to death, I can't trust it to drive further than a couple hours.. Some of these cars won't make it to see forever. And I haven't even been hard on the car. You guys are lucky.NOT bulletproof...

[gnnr]

Hmmm... at this point I think I am going to go with the FWD Base loaded up options wise if I go with the Vibe. The AWD system is a nice feature but the downgraded power is possibly an issue as is the lower MPG. And then there is price savings as well. I am wondering if the down the road the rear end can be converted to the IRS setup? That would make for an interesting mod, heh.The AWD loaded with everything sans XM (delete) MSRPs at 24760 (or 23635 - their pricing site is acting screwy) and that's with 16" rims.The base with auto and loaded sans xm and onstar is $22,695.that's a sunroof, theft deterent, abs, auot, leather, monotone package, preferred package, sun and sound package, 6 disc radio, cargo nets, bumper protector, side airbags, and either 16" (AWD) or 17" (base) rims.31mpg vs 36mpg and 1 - 2K with all the same features sans AWD (but more power) in favor of the Base.

[tnpartsguy]

forget the factory theft detterent, it's a joke, spend that money on a GOOD system

[viberationz]

if im on the same page as u - your talking about the factory alarm. its a joke. i bought aftermarket. ungo 2-way.

[gnnr]

Honestly I believe you but I have no knowledge of alarm systems and remote start functionality. I just know that I want that and I want it to work and I want fully warranty support if it breaks.

[michaelgt]

I can take care of the GMID certificate. Please send me the purchasers birthdate and last 4 digits of SSN to mgtomasek@hotmail.com and I will request the certificate.

[gnnr]

Heyas.Wow... thanks. Let me check first with my dealer and possibly others to see if they are willing to work something out to get me out early on my SmartBuy. I know dealers can do this but not at any old given time and not for everyone. I should be a good candidate (no missed/late payments, decent credit, second GMAC finance deal, maturity of current contract, end of year press for sales and new notes, etc) but you never know and I don't want to waste it.

[tnpartsguy]

Before you decide not to buy the AWD, drive them both. IMHO, the slight loss of power is well worth the improved handling.

[josholiver1]

Again if ur going for the AWD, 07 year model is discontinued! As is the GT..sad..i wish it was in an auto with manual mode as in the G6..Any way Owned a AWD and now am looking for an FWD...found the power > than handleing? just my opinon

[bikrr]

Great synopsis GNNR! I also just joined the forum to do some prep work to replace my Saturn SL and this thread helped a lot. I got a FWD Vibe as a rental last month in FL and loved it even with 4 people and the back full of luggage. We have a '02 FWD Vue and I'd like something with the same utility but smaller with better mpg. The Vibe fits the bill and I'm comparing to new Dodge Caliber and future release of Jeep Compass. Both have bigger engine options but the Vibe's rear cargo tracks and opening hatch window are big pluses for puting a bike inside and the hauling utility I want.This weeks heavy snows in WI have me leaning toward the AWD and I'll have to make sure I test one. The info on it being discontinued after 06 is good to know. I also didn't know about the GMID and may ask for someone to share one if my purchase comes sooner in order to grab an AWD or my SL croaks. It has 200K but still runs like a top. I have an 80 mi. rt commute and it is important to keep close to the 40mpg I'm getting. Sounds like the FWD would and the AWD could get close enough.Good luck on your decision - didn't mean to be so wordy.

[Kingslayer]

gnnr, I remember you from CGP. I can't answer most of your questions, but I just traded my 1999 GPGT for a 2004 Vibe.The steering wheel/wife issue is one that worried my in my GP also. I always figured the air bag would snap her neck if it ever went off. She sits a little further away from the wheel in the Vibe.If it's still a problem and you want to stay GM loyal, check out the Malibu MAXX. It's just as flexible as the Vibe, but a little bigger. It also has the 3.5 V6 which is much snappier than the Vibe's I4. It also has adjustable pedals which solves the steering wheel/wife problem.I'm sorry I can't help with your other questions, but I've only had my Vibe for 30 hours. So far, I love it and I'm not missing my Grand Prix.I did take a 04 Grand Prix for a test drive and don't like what GM has done to them at all. It didn't even feel like a Grand Prix. I was ashamed.