2004 Pontiac Vibe New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Pontiac Vibe?
This crossover vehicle was a brand-new model for 2003, so the 2004 Pontiac Vibe sees few changes. All-season tires replace the wet-weather performance rubber that formerly came on models with 17-inch wheels, and a new color called Fusion Orange Metallic replaces Envy on the paint palette. XM satellite radio is now available on the Pontiac Vibe, and a new Protection package bundles side impact airbags and a theft deterrent system. At the dealer-installation level, an SPO (GM Service and Parts Operations) supercharger kit is also new for 2004. Made specifically for Vibe's 1.8-liter engine, the supercharger is fully warranted for the same period as the Vibe, and it endows the base powerplant with 7.5 pounds of extra engine boost resulting in an approximately 35-percent increase in horsepower and torque.

Advantages of the 2004 Pontiac Vibe:

• Roomy and versatile interior
• Sharp handling with the GT model
• Available all-wheel-drive
• Toyota mechanicals wrapped in handsome GM bodywork

Objections to the 2004 Pontiac Vibe:

• Peaky power delivery with GT
• Overwhelmed engine when all-wheel-drive is ordered

Editor's Advice:
The 2004 Pontiac Vibe is a solid, functional, crossover vehicle that can serve many needs at once. Base models could use more power, especially when equipped with all-wheel-drive, while the sporty GT must be revved hard to make its maximum 180 horsepower. The GT is an excellent handling vehicle, able to carve a canyon with surprising verve. And with Toyota mechanicals under the bodywork, reliability is almost a guarantee. We highly recommend the 2004 Pontiac Vibe if a crossover SUV-wagon thingamabob is what you're looking for.