2008 Pontiac Vibe Features Review

November 5, 2008

FEATURES | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Cargo bay has tie-downs and built-in tracks for securing gear
ConsumerGuide

Console-mounted 115-volt outlet allows you to plug in accessories
Kelley Blue Book

Lots of options for audio junkies
Car and Driver

The 2008 Pontiac Vibe offers a few compelling options, but overall, the standard and optional features list is very lackluster.

The 2008 Pontiac Vibe comes in only one trim level, and as such, all vehicles with the Pontiac Vibe label sport the same standard features. Kelley Blue Book lists some of those standard features as "air conditioning, rear defroster, illuminated entry, fog lights," and "automatic headlamp control." ConsumerGuide adds that a "split folding rear seat, power mirrors," and "AM/FM/CD player" come standard on the 2008 Pontiac Vibe. Also on the standard features list is a unique item that most reviews read by TheCarConnection.com appreciate: a "console-mounted 115-volt outlet" that Kelley Blue Book says "allows you to plug in accessories without the need for a 12-volt adaptor."

The options list on the Pontiac Vibe isn't very lengthy, and it mostly centers on package items, but it includes several features worth mentioning. Among the most noteworthy are "lots of options for audio junkies," according to Car and Driver, which ConsumerGuide says include a "Monsoon sound system" and "AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer." Edmunds reviewers cite as one of their favorite options the "optional Preferred Package, which provides full power accessories, cruise control and keyless entry." From the stand-alone options list, Kelley Blue Book states that consumers can opt for "XM Satellite Radio" and a "power glass sunroof," along with "17-inch alloy wheels" for those who want to add a little more flair to their Pontiac Vibe. Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, and a navigation system are unavailable for the 2008 model year, though GM’s OnStar service is offered.

Conclusion

The 2008 Pontiac Vibe is more basic than buyers might expect, but it offers options like satellite radio.

FEATURES | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:Cargo bay has tie-downs and built-in tracks for securing gearConsumerGuideConsole-mounted 115-volt outlet allows you to plug in accessoriesKelley Blue BookLots of options for audio junkiesCar and Driver The 2008 Pontiac Vibe offers a few compelling options, but overall, the standard and optional features list is very lackluster. The 2008 Pontiac Vibe comes in only one trim level, and as such, all vehicles with the Pontiac Vibe label sport the same standard features. Kelley Blue Book lists some of those standard features as "air conditioning, rear defroster, illuminated entry, fog lights," and "automatic headlamp control." ConsumerGuide adds that a "split folding rear seat, power mirrors," and "AM/FM/CD player" come standard on the 2008 Pontiac Vibe. Also on the standard features list is a unique item that most reviews read by TheCarConnection.com appreciate: a "console-mounted 115-volt outlet" that Kelley Blue Book says "allows you to plug in accessories without the need for a 12-volt adaptor." The options list on the Pontiac Vibe isn't very lengthy, and it mostly centers on package items, but it includes several features worth mentioning. Among the most noteworthy are "lots of options for audio junkies," according to Car and Driver, which ConsumerGuide says include a "Monsoon sound system" and "AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer." Edmunds reviewers cite as one of their favorite options the "optional Preferred Package, which provides full power accessories, cruise control and keyless entry." From the stand-alone options list, Kelley Blue Book states that consumers can opt for "XM Satellite Radio" and a "power glass sunroof," along with "17-inch alloy wheels" for those who want to add a little more flair to their Pontiac Vibe. Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, and a navigation system are unavailable for the 2008 model year, though GM’s OnStar service is offered. ConclusionThe 2008 Pontiac Vibe is more basic than buyers might expect, but it offers options like satellite radio. 2008 PONTIAC VIBE STYLING | [8 out of 10] Edmunds: "Manages to be both smart and edgy at the same time" Kelley Blue Book: "Offers customers a sporty small wagon wrapped in distinctive Pontiac sheetmetal" Cars.com: "The Vibe displays basic styling cues that suggest an SUV" The ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

There are few vehicles of a similar size to the 2008 Pontiac Vibe that offer such versatility and usable interior space. Other than the closely related Toyota Matrix, the Scion xB is another possibility. Its boxy body affords an impressive amount of space, while offering good fuel efficiency. Along more conventional lines, the Kia Spectra5 is an economical five-door hatchback model that's definitely more fun to drive than the Vibe, though it might not be as spacious inside. The Dodge Caliber also competes in this class; it offers impressive features, such as tailgate speakers, but it has a rather loud interior and isn't as comfortable. And if you're willing to go up a little bit in size, the Subaru Forester might fit your needs. It's more of a sport-utility vehicle, but it's small with the most carlike driving position, and it's one of the best handling and easiest to park among them.

Next Steps:

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2008 Pontiac Vibe

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for the 2008 Pontiac Vibe

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2008 Pontiac Vibe near you

See the Pontiac Vibe in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003

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