Image: JasonUnbound

In likely the largest single financial meltdown since the Great Depression, I feel inclined to beg of you to run out and buy a new Chevy to bolster the ailing auto industry. But, that’s not really what this feature is about. What got us into this mess likely won’t get us out – that is, buying new cars we don’t need or can’t afford. So, in the spirit of the Union-made conveyance, this installment of Best Economical Used Cars goes to the first-generation Pontiac Vibe / Toyota Matrix.

The GM/Toyota alliance has a rich, yet somewhat little-known history. Since 1984, the NUMMI (New United Motor Manufacturing Inc.) plant in Fremont, California has employed UAW workers.  The plant has assembled brand-shared rides like the ’85-’88 Chevy Nova (Toyota Corolla Sprinter), ’90-’02 Toyota Corolla / Geo-Chevy Prizm, the Tacoma, many exported combinations, and the thrifty, wagon-like Vibe/Matrix (including the right-drive version called “Voltz”). These cars are essentially a tall, Corolla wagon/crossover with a Toyota drivetrain and GM bits-and-pieces (60% Toyota, 40% GM). Yep, it’s a strange brew, but a tasty one for sure.

Since their inception in 2003, both models carried their own unique styling and options, yet shared the same DNA under their clothing. Over the model years, some could be bought with All-Wheel Drive, sport packages like the 164 SAE Horsepower XRS (Toyota), and a 6-speed manual transmission. The base 1.8L models offered 126 HP and a 5-speed manual or 4-speed autobox.  At their core, the twins shared the commonality, utility, and efficiency of the Corolla – but with a bonus: cargo capacity.

To meet the qualifications of this segment, reliable, quality vehicles have to be easily found, with low mileage, and at a reasonable price.  A quick search revealed several units in the sub-100K mile range, for as little as $6,000-$7000.   Pontiac models run a bit cheaper, but it’s just brand identity and nothing more.  The Toyota has the same parts, different logo.

On the Inside: The vehicle accomplishes quite a lot in it it’s entirety. The interior trim is basic and plasticky, but who cares? The look and substance exudes durability.  Feature content includes a 115V inverter to connect AC items — to charge a cell phone, etc.  This vehicle is designed for efficient convenience.

The driver’s seat is tall and nearly identical to the Corolla.  Although adjustable, the seating position is rather awkward and uncomfortable.  Nevertheless, controls are easy to reach and the instrument cluster exudes an attractive glow with its deeply inset, electroluminescent gauges.  One observation: my driving position blocks a clear view of the speedometer by the small steering wheel (duck-n-view).  To keep costs down, the Pontiac radio unit and vent outlets are placed in both models.   Small nitpicks, but the driver’s position is rather funky.  Overall, the feel is tall-crossover instead of (dare I say) “Wagon”.

The cargo area is where this vehicle excels. The rear seats fold flat (including the front passenger seat) to allow the transport of long items. It’s a true wagon, so expect that sort of utility (and appearance).  Tie-down loops and channels, a tough, hard plastic load floor, and minimal wheel-well intrusions make hauling easy.  Cleanup of cargo spills are a snap.  Who needs a small truck when a good hatchback will do?

Interior Images: stephenHUBBARD

Rear seat passengers may find the legroom a bit cramped if adults are the passengers, but short trips are OK.  If kids tag along, then no worries.  When the rear seats are in the up and locked position, cargo space finds itself a bit tight.  Remember, this is a compact 5-door — which makes it a real fuel miser, but small on proportions.  The Toyota is a bit more refined on both interior and exterior appearances, including the optional leather interior. Teamed-up with cargo capacity, fuel economy is the best benefit.

Pontiac Vibe

Image: Hendrixson

On the Outside: Both iterations share the same sweeping roofline, wedgy front and rear aspects, and 5-door silhouette.  The Toyota has a smoother look to the eye, with full cargo glass instead of the Pontiac’s stylish notch (which creates a bit of a blind spot).  GT and XRS models look sporty and play the part with larger alloy wheels, foglamps, side sills, and a rear spoiler.  The Pontiac exudes a Fisher Price-esque durability with hard plastic cladding, a roof rack, and sharply angled styling cues.

Under the Hood and ‘The Drive’: Pop the lid, and you’ll find the bulletproof Toyota 1ZZ-FE mill (the 2ZZ-GE is found in high-output models).  Choose the 5-speed manual for optimal efficiency.  As is usual in North America, most cars you’ll find are automatics.  The trick is to keep the speed at or below 70 MPH to avoid transmission kickdown on hills, and consistently high revs at cruise.  Fuel economy drops significantly at speeds above the 70-mark.   Keep it steady, and you’ll be rewarded with a variable valve timing response that’s punchy, especially in the mid-range, along with a combined fuel economy in the 30′s.  Crisp, small-car handling is the norm from even base trim levels.  Body roll is minimal, and the ride is compliant.  The automatic shifts firmly and is quick to downshift to the optimal RPM.  It’s still a fun car to drive despite what its personality may indicate.

The Data:

Vehicle Tested: 2008 Pontiac Vibe Base
Engine: 1.8L Toyota Powerplant with VVT — rated at 126 HP and 122 lb-ft torque, 4-speed Auto
EPA Class: Small Station Wagon
EPA FE: 25 City / 31 Highway
Averages as Tested: 35.5 MPG at 57 MPH avg, over 455 miles.
Route: Kansas City – Wichita, KS – Kansas City (hit rush hour on the return)
Weather Conditions: 40F – 55F, Wind Speed vs. Heading: NW @ 5 MPH. Course 1 = SSW; Return = NNE

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Gen-I Matrix/Vibe:

+ FE vs. Cargo and Passenger Capacity
+ Fun to Drive (especially handling)
+ Added Feature Content

- Uncomfortable Driving Position
- Hodgepodge of Toyota and GM Parts
- Spartan Interior

“New United Motor Manufacturing Inc.” or NUMMI is printed on stickers under the hood. What’s up with that?

That’s the name given the to the GM/Toyota joint venture in Fremont, CA. The unique situation is the History of a UAW manufacturing agreement between General Motors and Toyota, at a facility that has produced Union-made vehicles, such as the:

Chevy Nova (1984-1988)
Geo/Chevy Prizm / Toyota Corolla (1998-2002)
Pontiac Vibe / Toyota Matrix (2003-Present)
…and other vehicles exported abroad.

Background: The Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix were introduced in 2003 as a compact wagon to provide an answer to those looking for a performance-oriented Corolla Wagon, or a domestically-nameplated, small utility vehicle. The secret? Essentially a tall, extended Corolla with GM parts (radio, miscellaneous parts, etc.) + great FE to boot.  Now, a 2009 variant is available with a sleek makeover.  This review examines the Pontiac Vibe, along with the Toyota Matrix.  The latter is available with different outward styling and a near-identical interior, in the 2003-2008 model run.

2008 Toyota Matrix

The First Generation model was introduced about 6 model-years ago. The problem is this: I rented several of both variants over the course, and the FE wasn’t stellar.

Confession: Hypermiling rehab is a slow and steady process. I used to set the cruise for 6-7 MPH over the limit. That ended up being 77 in a 70. With the A/C running in the summer, the transmission was quick to downshift on modest hills, and was quite erratic. The FE suffered terribly. I gave it a shot at the speed limit and no more…

This was the only 4-cylinder vehicle available on the rental lot this week (mid-week slim-pickins). I hopped-in and gave it another try. Nowadays, I set the cruise for the limit and just let it ride. That made all the difference in the World.

On the Inside: The vehicle accomplishes so much in its totality, that I refuse to stress minor inconsistencies. The interior trim is basic and plasticky, but who cares? The look and substance exudes durability, and the FE seals the deal.

Feature content includes a 115V inverter to plug-in AC items (for me — perfect: I’m too cheap to buy an i-Pod, so I use my laptop as an MP3 player and pipe the sound through the speakers through an FM transmitter). Some vehicle models offer an auxiliary input (not in this case).  But hey, rock on…

The cargo area is where this vehicle shines brightly. The rear seats fold flat (including the front passenger seat) to allow the transport of long items. It’s a true wagon, so expect that sort of utility (and appearance).

From the driver’s seat, expect a “love it or hate it” Corolla-like seating position, and a 4-pod dash.   Rear seat passengers may find the legroom cramped if adults are passengers. If kids are the ride-alongs, then it’s perfect — no worries.

On the Outside: The Toyota is more streamlined and Sporty, while the Pontiac displays durability and simple functionality. My test model offered foglamps, a rear wiper, and side skirts. Just speculation: later models seem to offer better aero than previous.

The Drive: Seating position is perhaps the weakest link. Think: SUV height and feel. I had no problem setting the seat to a higher height, moved the seat back and adjusted the tilt wheel. The problem is, some drivers may find this uncomfortable. I’m not at all tall, at 5′ 9″, with short legs. The position wasn’t too bad — although the ideal setup prohibited viewing the top of the instrument cluster through the wheel top (duck-n-view). If you’re unsure of this seat, visit a dealer and give it a shot (the Corolla is very similar).

Cubbies and cupholders abound. Handling is sprite, as is throttle response and acceleration. If you keep the speed down, downshifts are infrequent, and the FE total will thank you. At 60, the engine turns at about 2500. Road noise is adequate, and blind-spots minimal.

Features: The Toyota is more “upscale” in outward appearance. A 5-speed or 6-speed manual is available, as is a higher horsepower 1.8L and/or AWD (up to 2007).  The Pontiac has similar amenities available.

Used Analysis: A 2003 Vibe 5-speed can be picked-up for $8K, on upwards to a fully loaded ’08 Matrix XRS for 22K. The vehicle essentially hasn’t changed since its inception, so you can get the same feature content at a reduced price when purchasing used. In addition, Edmunds.com rated the Matrix/Vibe a “Used Car Best Bet” for reliability, etc.

Vehicle Specs as Tested:

Latest Model: 2008 Toyota Matirix / Pontiac Vibe
Trim: Base
Class Size: Compact Wagon
Transmission: 4-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter (5-speed Manual Available)
Engine: Toyota 1.8L DOHC, 16-Valve, I-4 with Variable Valve Timing
Rating: 126 hp at 6000 RPM and 122 lb-ft torque at 4200
Drivetrain: FWD (AWD available)
Seating Capacity: 5 (very snug) at 2+3 or 4 more comfortably at 2+2
Price as Tested: $17,000 USD (April, 2008)
Curb Weight: 2700 lbs.
EPA: 21/31
EPA Average Fuel Cost per Year: $1554

Raw Data — Stats:
EcoModder Tested Mileage: 35.5 MPG
Average Speed: 57 MPH
Distance Driven: 455 Miles
Engine RPM @ 60 MPH: 2500
Route: Kansas City – Wichita, KS – Kansas City (hit rush hour on the return)
Temp: 40F – 55F
Wind Speed vs. Heading: NW @ 5 MPH. Course 1 = SSW; Return = NNE
2009: Complete Re-design

Conclusion: Brilliant!

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