GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

Hey dont mean to alert you too much, but i was just wondering how the AWD handles and accelelrates as opposed to the base vibe.Is it responsive?

My wifes AWD handles quite well and is quite responsive when you put the petal to the metal. I would have to drive a 2wd version more or less side by side to really see if there was a noticeable difference between the two. Consumer Reports did compare a awd Matrix with a 2wd Vibe and they made minor distictions between the two. I think it was the Aug. 2002 issue

The AWD model is said to be 300 lb. heavier and has 123hp as opposed to the base's 130 rated engine. Why it is "detuned", I dont know, but Toyota says the AWD does 0-60 in 11.5 sec.

According to all the literature I've read, the AWD has fewer HP because of the way the exhaust is routed. It has to go around the rear differential in such a way that it prevents the exhaust from escaping as efficiently. My two cents.