AFSCME 3357-HOF'S BLOG

From the "Cars We Can Drive to Work" File:
Sneak Peek - 2009 Pontiac Vibe

Until very recently, there was a lot of speculation that the Pontiac Vibe would die when the current generation ceased production. It is now virtually certain that the Vibe will live. Linked here (from the genvibe.com website) are interior and exterior of what appear to be a final or near-final version of the 2009 Vibe. Overall, the interior and exterior are evolutionary and not dissimilar from the current version. Since the Vibe is a soulmate to the Toyota Matrix, the Vibe is expected to get a new generation of Toyota engines and probably new transmission choices as well. One of the photos has "Dual-VVTi" on the engine cover. This suggests that the powerplant is either Toyota's 136 HP 1.8 liter 2zr-fe or the 158 horsepower 2.0 liter 3zr-fe. These are modern engines with a broad power band, good fuel economy and low emissions.

It's possible that the 2009 Vibe will be an early model introduction, so it may be in the showrooms within 6 months. If you are looking for a small car to drive to work. This could be your ticket. The Vibe and the Matrix are assembled in the UAW-staffed NUMMI plant in California.