Pontiac Vibe GT, Interior & Transmission

Despite its lively mechanicals, the Vibe can be arrayed to carry an eclectic assortment of cargo like a small SUV.

A close-ratio six-speed transmission and rally-style dash-mounted shifter help the driver match revs and road speed to good effect. But the shifter feels less than substantial and is often notchy and imprecise in action. Overall, fit and finish mirrors Toyota quality more than GM quality--a good thing. Virtual-image red gauge needles add a flourish, and the dash lighting is so Pontiac orange you feel like you might get your minimum daily requirement of Vitamin C just looking at it. High hip-point seating affords the driver and front passenger a good view of the road, but the seat cushion is too short for the long of leg and using the parking brake and console cupholders is almost a double-jointed maneuver. A leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus 12-volt and 110-volt electrical outlets to power a wide range of personal electronics, round out the well-done cabin.

Our tester was also equipped with an optional, power glass sunroof and rockin' six-speaker 200-watt audio system, the Moon and Tunes package. The Catch 22 is that ordering this package precludes optioning up to the Matrix's grippy 50-series 17-in. Z-rated tires. In relaxed driving, the Vibe GT feels light, tight, and right, more hot hatch than lumbering station wagon. But pushed to the same limits you might explore with the rev-happy engine, the 16-in. 55-series Goodyear Eagles give less-than-stellar grip in spirited handling and braking maneuvers.

One maneuver the Vibe does well is swallow stuff. In people mode, the four-door Vibe GT can tote five passengers without violating anyone's personal space. Arrayed for cargo with rear seats (and if necessary the front passenger seat) folded, it can tote anything a small SUV can. The good news is that, after you unload, you're driving a hot hatchback, not a lumbering SUV.