I bought my lava Vibe base automatic in May, 2004. It now has 81000 miles on it, so I thought it was time to introduce myself and give my impressions of the Vibe. First thing I have to say about it is that it is dependable. It has not been back to the shop for any unscheduled maintenance. I replaced the OEM battery in December 2006 because the original battery seemed to be getting weak at times. The original Continental tires were garbage, and I they were worn out at 16000 miles. I replaced them with Michelin HydroEdge tires and they look like they will go another 15000 miles or so.My least favorite thing about the car is the cruise control. Whoever designed it must have been on drugs. Not only does it cancel its setting when speed drops below 25 mph, but any slight incline will cause the torque converter to unlock and possibly a downshift. I've found that I can seldom get good fuel economy when using the CC.My most favorite thing other than dependability is the seating position when behind the wheel. I've taken several long trips, and am able to be comfortable in the Vibe for long periods of time.This car is fine just the way it is, but I can't help but wonder how it would perform with GM's own Ecotec engine, either the 2.2 or the 2.4.Check out this link for fuel economy (MPG)info:
http://www.gassavers.org/garage/view/864