The Pontiac Vibe GT Is the Forgotten Hot Hatchback

CHECK OUT THIS VIBE GT LIVE ON CARS & BIDS!
carsandbids.com/auctions/K17j...
Pontiac Vibe GT review! Today I'm reviewing the exciting Pontiac Vibe GT, which is a high-performance hatchback that everyone forgot about. I'll show you the quirks and features of the Vibe GT, then I'll get it out on the road and drive the Vibe GT and show you what it's like behind the wheel.
WEBSITE & MERCH!
www.dougdemuro.com
FOLLOW ME!
Twitter - / dougdemuro
Instagram - / dougdemuro
Facebook - / ddemuro
DOUGSCORE CHART:
www.dougdemuro.com/dougscore

[@behruz1691]

I think Doug is the only person that scrolls through the years in the infotainment system calendars just to discover the end of the world

[@jasonwelch6306]

Don't we do the same thing while doom scrolling through Facebook, lol

[@jenkinsjohn15]

Well, it is 2021. He was probably just trying to set the date.

[@Rita-pw6su]

by the side of Little Red-Cap🥩🍖🧀🥞🥨🥖🥐

[@Rita-pw6su]

Little Red-Cap raised 🍱🍿🥗🥣

[@Rita-pw6su]

‘A good quarter 🌺🥀🌹🏵💮🌸💐

[@rjcolombe]

Call me crazy, but I actually enjoy it more when Doug reviews everyday cars.

[@clothestravel]

I totally agree! A lot of his super/hyper car reviews don’t do much of anything for me.

[@lucasbiaggini]

That's literally why he's successful. He's the only one making car reviews for "non car guys". There are a million channels going into the details of how a rotary engine works, but I don't know of anyone else who shows the quirks and features like him.

[@tjb92]

Same I agree

[@egz3637]

he is very good for us normies, doesn't really explain too much car engine stuffs, he just shows the practical and fun things in a car, while telling about how it drives.

[@tripleo4255]

All these charlatans are just lying to you man you ARE f*cking crazy... don't believe the hype

[@klutch...]

I still have my 2005 Matrix. The car is bulletproof and still going Fun fact: The odometer stops at 299,999

[@moskitosTR]

Just like 2020 calendar huh 🤣

[@dylanward9673]

I just got rid of my 2006 vibe and it had over 250,000, if I would have known that I probably would have kept it

[@jamescooke5310]

Miles I’m guessing?🇨🇦

[@SirCavemaninthewest]

2004 Acura TL 368,599 miles. Blown transmission.

[@unclejoe6811]

Some Priuses also stop at 299,999 the clusters were made by Denso so not a gm thing

[@ThatsNotVeryFunnyLol]

It's funny how Doug doesn't think people will care about backstories or tid bits, but I personally think it's always welcomed. It's always nice to hear any information that's interesting and that you wouldn't normally know.

[@jeffgualandijr9420]

i second that but we are rare.

[@zedramer]

Fun fact: The Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe can carry 113 Costco-sized pumpkin pies with all the seats folded down. Don't ask me how I know.

[@lazuardichoiri6123]

ah classic American, using everything except metric measurement.

[@Thiswuan]

I love this piece of information, thank you for sharing this

[@jonlosito2004]

The Vibe must fit like 3 more pumpkins than the Mazda CX 5. I’m tired of crossovers there’s too many of them

[@pissoff234]

@@lazuardichoiri6123 Who's talking about measurement ....idiot.

[@ZacharySchultedotcom]

It can also carry enough pickets, posts, and concrete bags for 30 linear feet of fencing. Don’t ask me how I know.

[@Scisca1a2a]

A dude: lists his car on Cars and Bids. Doug: I tracked down this car!

[@JustDontPls]

Ayyo lemme review that whip or no bids and shit my boy - Doug probably

[@TheRoboticAssassin]

That’s actually genius tbh

[@lifeinhd4053]

Doug: the Vibe GT is a fantastic little hot hatch! Also Doug: scores the Vibe GT lower than a PT Cruiser

[@alexapplegate619]

Because the PT Cruiser GT was surprisingly fun car to drive due to the Turbocharged engine.

[@jakedover5301]

thats just sad.

[@mvd4436]

Just skip the Doug score.

[@bloodrune329]

He gave the PT a 3 in acceleration (it’s just as slow as the Vibe) and a higher fun factor (how?)

[@TheCostantinus]

Because the pity criuser gt has 230 hp, while this has only 180

[@1mlb704]

My dad bought this car brand new off the showroom floor in 2003 (same wheels, same shade of silver, same nav radio, but with cloth seats and the older better looking grille). I learned to drive stick in this car when I was 16, and I burnt the clutch out numerous times yet it wasn't replaced until around 260k miles. The odometer stopped at 299,999 and my brother drove it for a full year on top of that. Needless to say, this was an excellent car.

[@jeffnoble9757]

I too have a matrix xr 03 only 95k everything still works I agree great car I don't understand why they stop making it

[@LightSkinBadiee]

Wow

[@Vorael]

"they thought 2020 would be the end of the vibes" *they knew*

[@saintsaens21]

bruh

[@alphaares6027]

Don't say that 😤😭😭

[@benbattista5035]

My thoughts EXACTLY

[@Snooker-cn3dm]

Well 2003 was SARS Covid 1 so it was only a matter of time for the next one. Also the same cause, farming animals.

[@koffeekan]

THEY KNEW

[@NobleOmnicide]

The cool thing about Doug is here's a guy who gets to drive the world's most expensive, most powerful, fastest, etc. super and hypercars and then he gets into a Pontiac Vibe and he's just as excited about this mundane car as he would be with a McLaren or Ferrari.

[@GHinWI]

To be fair, the Pontiac Vibe is leagues better as a car than any Ferrari or Mclaren

[@GHinWI]

@@yungboicontigo9278 : but there’s no Ferrari or Mclaren that isn’t completely useless…as a car. If we’re talking about art objects, certainly any Ferrari or Mclaren > any Pontiac.

[@ChloeMarieMurphy]

The Pontiac Vibe is anything but mundane

[@jeffersoniv]

I was attending a large presentation, and had my phone sitting on the table on its Home Screen. All of a sudden, and on full blast … “THIIISSSSS is a 2005 Pontiac Vibe GT!!” Needless to say, Doug indirectly brought some laughter to an otherwise boring presentation.

[@LightSkinBadiee]

Yea ive been ear raped a couple times by my boy doug.

[@evilz33]

Be cool if doug continued on this mundane 2000's cars, id like to see doug do the very rare Chevy trailblazer north face edition

[@weirdshibainu]

I was selling Pontiac's during this time period. The toughest part was to get someone to drive the GT version as many thought it was merely a Vibe with a few decals ( GM did a terrible job of marketing the vehicle) once my prospects drove them, I had a high closing rate. In my experience, women bought the Vibe GT at twice the rate men did. They were really good, quick, practical cars.

[@joelness]

Ahh yes, GM's ubiquitous Sport Appearance packages... no actual performance upgrades. All the rage in small Midwestern towns.

[@mipmipmipmipmip]

This car seems a load of fun, and from the looks everyone would think it's some boring econobox.

[@mipmipmipmipmip]

Ohhh those high revs so cool... Though not helping the mileage I bet

[@markm0000]

In hindsight if you had slapped a huge decal on the side or something that looked sporty and different enough from the street they would have sold like hot cakes.

[@Charliefox71]

Women love the vibe.

[@clothestravel]

Interesting quirk about this car that Doug didn’t mention: that roof rack only goes halfway up the roof, instead of spanning the entire length of the roof like pretty much every other car with a roof rack does.

[@boxman139]

chode roof rack chode roof rack

[@johnprice5457]

@@boxman139 also the blank button under the AC buttons and the yamaha/toyota partnership in developing the engine (motorcycle influence imo)

[@joelness]

Going for that perfect 50/50 weight distribution!

[@markm0000]

@@boxman139 stubby roof rack.

[@phasmata3813]

Some other cars I can think of that do this: 99-01 Jeep XJ, GM station wagons of almost any model/year, older Ford station wagons

[@Max-jv6sx]

Bought a 2003 Vibe GT for $2500 at 82k miles a few years ago. What an incredible gem! LOVE the location of the manual--really reminds me of a Honda hatch. That glass hatch allowed me to slide in a 14 ft ladder. The 2zz really seems like it was Toyota's answer to Honda's vtec. Feels rewarding every time you're in the higher rev range and have pleasantly surprised other unsuspecting cars. :P I feel like this is the best all-rounded car I've ever owned.

[@conzmoleman]

That is a *steal*

[@dooners4274]

@@conzmoleman fr thought i stole my 04 gt with 180 k for 2200

[@conzmoleman]

@@dooners4274 nice!!

[@chrispapanastasopoulos9192]

@@dooners4274 Got my 2003 GT in 2021 for $800. It came up on Craigslist and I bought it that same day. Needed some TLC though but don't regret it at all.

[@matthewalle2]

Used car prices have really gone up. 2008 with 190k miles for $3500… talked the dealer down $1400 as well

[@Torbox1]

I have a 2003 Toyota Matrix XRS and I think you missed some of the more interesting quirks and features. The odometer stops at 299,999 regardless of KM or MI for some reason, you have to buy or convince a dealer to give you a new one that can go beyond that. When the second row folds down it is completely flat with the cargo space in the back and there are integrated rails designed to hold down luggage or two bicycles with the front wheels removed. Kind of interesting to me as a mechanic is the way the rear wiper works, instead of the motor being permanently on the hatch and a slip joint connecting the wiper arm when the glass is closed, like most vehicles, the motor is permanently attached to the glass and it uses a slip electrical connection to connect to the motor when the glass is closed. The Toyota Matrix is actually a Corolla and the owners manual says "Toyota Corolla Matrix". The factory power locks will relock the car if you don't open any door within 30 seconds of unlocking it with the key fob. With the factory navigation system you also have a 6 CD changer under the passenger seat.

[@shoogledonk]

Interesting! I will say that the 30 second unlock/lock rule applies to almost any Toyota model I can think of though. I guess the thought is that if you accidentally unlock the car and forget it, or press the wrong button when you're leaving the car - it will lock itself as a precaution.

[@Karmy.]

@@shoogledonk mine doesn't

[@dylanrieck6671]

GM must have contributed the calendar, they couldn’t believe that any of their vehicles could possibly last more than 15 years

[@chynacash3138]

My dad's old 1990 Oldsmobile Trofeo "touchscreen" goes to 2021 lol.

[@xWoodenLeafx]

Some developer did that because he knew by the time anybody realized, they'd forget who to blame!

[@_shubham_s]

@@chynacash3138 knowing this, the fact that this car’s calendar only goes to 2020 is even funnier 😂

[@SirSkroop]

Interestingly, the digital odometer won't display anything over 299,999

[@redrooben]

Bro 😂😂😂

[@ClaireYunFarronXIII]

Doug: “I tracked this car down!” Person who listed this car on Cars and Bids: *😢*

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

of red velvet, which suited her 🤔😗😆😀

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

I believe, too, that you do🥪🌭🍕🍟🍔🥓🍗

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

and do not run off 👹👿😈☻

[@yes8032]

😂

[@trabantadmirer9881]

Someone's desperate

[@robertwarnick3094]

I absolutely love my 2004 vibe gt. The car gets great mileage and has decent power. Like he said gotta have the car above 5k rpm to feel any type of power. Monkey wrench racing has a huge aftermarket for these cars. The biggest negative I have for my vibe is the motor can starve for oil very easily with it's non baffled oil pan. So I put a baffled version that increases capacity so I should never have an oil starvation issue. But yeah my guy did the vibe proud other then that low score. Have a nice day to anyone who reads this!!

[@callbrin573]

i love that this year the 2zz is getting so much recognition. hell 2 companies are still making new performance parts for it. itsa nice

[@electrikoptik]

You can spawn a wild Doug by saying "quirks and features" 5x in the mirror.

[@brynnleahnayvieghlaykynnn6175]

I did it and now he won’t leave and won’t stop talking I haven’t said anything

[@Jensandfriends]

The Toyota Voltz doesn’t have a Toyota logo on the front at all. It’s a stylized “V” that fits over the pontiac badge.

[@AlexSchwartzATV]

Right lmao i looked it up and was like uhhh ok

[@mtfan]

Boy you can really hear the revs increase quickly once you’re up in the range. It almost seems too late to be usable, but I’m sure it really helps keep the fuel economy good in normal driving situations.

[@Tcisoff]

I had an xrs and I really had to retrain my ear to the engine note. 6 grand and you’ve still got 2 more to go. So many revs to play with

[@R3AL-AIM]

Here in Michigan, we have long roads often out in the middle of nowhere in or between towns. These cars are everywhere here, so much that you can't find them untouched in junk yards.

[@davidklein1245]

It's actually kinda nice to have the VVTi kick in that late. We had a Matrix XRS and could easily get 30+mpg (mixed city/highway) if we didn't get into it keeping it below 6000RPM. But you could always have some fun if you wanted because there was still 2000RPM available. before redline.

[@jamesstuart3346]

I test drove this exact car in 2003. I had to keep the revs above 4000 or it had no guts. So I bought the base model automatic instead. Still driving it!

[@chrispapanastasopoulos9192]

@@R3AL-AIM I concur...I see tons of them here in Michigan also.

[@rdawg404]

Now you need to do a Yaris blitz, another forgotten got hatch. It had a 1.5 supercharged 140 HP engine and was pretty quick

[@ismaeel_bakri]

“They thought 2020 will be the end of all the vibes” Aah the irony.

[@roddydykes7053]

Turns out they were exactly right lol

[@Quesadila21]

Toyota did Coronavirus.

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

The wolf thought to himself🌳🌲🌱⚘🌷🌼🌻

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

was nothing that she woul

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

and when she went 🏸🏓🏒🏑🏏🎳🎱

[@KloneOne1111]

The “vibe” really did die in 2020, Toyota knew.

[@lrivera9526]

Underrated comment

[@Rita-pw6su]

loved by everyone who ☺️😚😙😗

[@Rita-pw6su]

‘Good day, said he.💓❤️💘💋

[@Rita-pw6su]

but took a 💯🆎

[@alexscampone9601]

my dad had this car when i was a kid. it was really weird to me. he got it to over 300K MILES. then the AC Failed and the rear door handles fell off and the back became a trash can. he hung in there until 2014 due to transmission failure. then we replaced it with a Nissan cube that is now my car. but you really took me back to my childhood with this review. thx doug truly means alot.

[@andrewrobinson5497]

I know my humor is broken when “a man with no mouth whose head appears to be a snow capped mountain” cracked me up😂😂

[@GratefulRob]

I had a regular vibe AWD, it was a great little car. Since it’s basically a Toyota Matrix.

[@rumenvasilev1172]

"believe it or not, I always wanted to drive one" Oh, Doug at that point there is nothing that would surprise us

[@jasonking8671]

I'm still commuting with my 2006 Vibe today. It now has 310,000 kms and running strong. It's bullet proof.

[@HypocriticYT]

Doug’s enthusiasm scores higher than this car does

[@fernandoavila1410]

Vibes were such an overlooked car. I’ve noticed many resellers have caught on and have jacked up the prices on them. We bought our 4 vibes for less than 3,500 used, clean title. They’re often more well-equipped than a comparable base Corolla or Matrix. My 2010 Vibe 2.4 has 339k on it. I ❤️ it.

[@LightSkinBadiee]

Hello, I'm considering purchasing a fwd or awd automatic do you know if awd version is reliable 🤔? It has a little over 150,000 miles.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The Matrix XRS was available with an automatic the first year it came out, mid 2003. The next year the automatic was discontinued. (At least in Canada)

[@jonlosito2004]

I’m pretty sure Toyota Canada likes their manuals more than Toyota US. The last gen Yaris hatch had a manual only in Canada.

[@BCaldwell]

My homeboy has an 06 Xrs with an auto..... Florida

[@KingSnake377]

@@BCaldwell then it was either swapped to be an auto for some ungodly reason or it was actually an XR.

[@BCaldwell]

@@KingSnake377 Definitely not swapped... Who the fuck would do that?!?!?😂 I'm going to do some more investigating now. Glad you said something about it in your comment though, I've been all about these cars for a while now so I enjoy learning a little more ya know. I'll get back to you ✌️

[@TheBonsaiZone]

@Leonardo 1 Cool!!!

[@man_on_wheelz]

All jokes aside, Doug and I get excited about the same types of cars. That backstory of the Toyota Matrix, Pontiac Vibe, and Toyota Voltz is one of the most bizarre car company stories I've ever heard! I love it!

[@aquagon]

the nummi corporation is a weird piece out of automotive history while it was nice seeing two global auto megacorporations partnering up the selection of cars they rebadged for different markets were pretty weird the toyota cavalier in japan which was basically a chevy cavalier, engine and all. the geo/chevy prizm that was a toyota sprinter (a different model of the corolla)

[@AdamsApples]

Absolutely loved seeing this. My dad got a 2006 Matrix and I still drive it today. It's a real nimble, and practical car! Glad to see it being revisited!

[@jimmy22334]

It’s probably one of the most reliable GM cars of all time since Toyota made it

[@ricklp1861]

Exactly what I was thinkin

[@celsovera91]

During the 90s toyota also made the Geo prizm in the car compete against its own cavalier and it was more reliable than that car

[@The_Dad_Bod]

Also made the V6 3.5 L in the Saturn Vue (up until 2009)

[@jaidenglass4421]

@@The_Dad_Bod that was honda

[@PhyuckYew]

Not really, This engine burns oil.

[@franksmythe6969]

So a couple things 1. The beep in reverse was to ensure the driver didn't accidentally put the car in reverse instead of 1st considering they were in similar locations 2. The calander was probably intended to be updated with a new DVD that the owner just never got around to purchasing. That's how they used to do that. Every so often the manufacturer would come out with an update disc and they could cost upwards of $160 depending on the manufacturer. 3. That 80s Chevy Nova was also based on the Corolla of its time.

[@mvd4436]

Exactly. That reverse warning is a good feature.

[@kbhasi]

I agree with your second point, because I know my mum had a 2014 Toyota Camry and never contacted the dealer to purchase a new map DVD that would've likely also contained updated calendar data like you mentioned, so it stayed on whatever map version Toyota provided for customers in Australia at the time the car was built, while she just used Google or Apple Maps for navigation in the later years of having the car before trading it in.

[@volvo09]

When I worked at a dealer in the era of nav dvd's we had to pull all the nav discs to stop them from being stolen.

[@damilolaakanni]

Also, the GT was available with an automatic transmission in 2003, and that was the only way you could get them. From 2004 they went manual only.

[@noguice]

I've had 2 base '05 Vibes and loved them both. I'd consider a 2nd gen GT, but my favorite feature on the vibe is that rear glass hatch opening, which the 2nd gen did not have.

[@billdoty1938]

I had a Vibe, base model 1.8 5 speed. I had cruise control put on it by a shop the dealer suggested. This was a great everyday car. It had adequate power, good fuel economy, plenty of space. Vibes had a lot of Toyota parts because they were built in a Toyota factory in Fremont California. I drove it to Yellowstone National Park. It was comfortable and got 39mpg.

[@LightSkinBadiee]

Would you happen to know how reliable the 5 speed automatics are on these? Im considering purchasing one soon.

[@TheWrgtt]

Doug: “forgotten untill now” “6speed manual” Car market 2021: “$20k Ik what I got”

[@OriginalDegree]

My 2009 vibe GT still goes for 7000$ Canadian Mind you it’s immaculate and has 164,000km

[@fortheloveofnoise9298]

20k, 150,000 low miles

[@R3AL-AIM]

Paid $5200 for my 09' base rust free in great condition in Michigan. (146K) Most 03-08 are no less than 3K, even with 250,000 miles

[@Sasquatshua]

My brother (also my best friend) is going across the west coast in his vibe. He’s also currently living in it too! I’m so glad Doug decided to review this video because it reminds me of him! Thanks Doug.

[@markm0000]

I hope your brother gets it together soon. That’s not a way to live.

[@Eggfartman]

@@markm0000 lol!

[@malrofo]

They're really spacious. He's probably comfortable

[@Sasquatshua]

@@markm0000 actually he’s doing really well. This is happiest and healthiest I’ve ever seen him! Thanks for the concern buddy have a nice day 👍🏼

[@GenericHotCheetos]

Profoundly soul crushing that this video was released at the same time that i sold my 04 gt. I regretted selling already but now the value is going to increase.

[@aleung545]

I have one of these in Canada and it's still going strong. The odometer actually stopped at 299,999km and doesn't roll over anymore. It's still being driven and I think I have somewhere around 450,000km on it by now.

[@uchechukwuajalam]

Doug: "Nobody remembers it." The 100,000+ Pontiac Vibe Uber drivers in Nigeria: "Are we a joke to you?"

[@dillonh321]

Yes you are.

[@dongately2817]

Someone had to be honest and say it

[@jj_cars99]

Yes.

[@lab1042]

I'm disappointed he didn't demonstrate that the rear seats fold completely flat. Take into account the hard-backing on them, plus the fold-flat front seat and the hatch glass that opens separately from the hatch - you could haul some serious loads back there. Lumber? 8-ft ladders? No problem.

[@adamlytle2615]

Drove one for years and really loved that about it. After years of driving a '99 Tercel and doing all sorts of crazy tetris packing to go camping, get stuff home from IKEA, etc, it was such a joy to have a car with so much cargo space. Shortly after I got the car, I got small deep freeze at Costco, and the whole box just slid in so easily.

[@joshua.harazin]

This is something I used to like about GM. I had a Malibu Maxx that also had flat-fold rear seats, and folding passenger seat, all with hard plastic on the backs. I hauled 8ft lumber in it, with the hatch closed and a passenger behind me. Nowadays they won't do that because they want to sell you a Tahoe or pickup truck if you want to haul anything more than groceries.

[@aleung545]

this car moved me into and out of first year university, and then also ten years later when i finally moved out of that city

[@jamesstuart3346]

Yep it's like a minivansedan. Mine has toted many a 2X4

[@bubbaries]

Owner of an ‘09 Vibe GT, and I love my car. Zippy little hatchback, tons of torque, which is great for quick passing on the freeway. Comfortable commute, yet fun on the country roads as well! Only struggle I had was going over a mountain pass with 5 adults and hiking packs on board. Couldn’t go any faster than 35, but it still got us up the mountain! Oh and I LOVE the home outlet, allows for a larger variety of things you can power with your car. Great video as always Doug!

[@kingpin7666]

The Numi plant itself has its own amazing history. It was the spearhead for “Lean 6 Sigma” and Toyota had to take it over from GM management. So it was a GM plant ran by Toyota so it was the best run and most profitable plant in the GM system. Amazingly enough GM learned nothing from their brush with Toyota superior manufacturing and moved the Numi production to Mexico.

[@christopherconard2831]

There was an article years ago about the history of the NUMI experiment. The two biggest takeaways were that GM employees didn't want to work for Toyota, and Toyota should never hire former GM employees.

[@rjherche]

yeah and lean manufacturing is kind of dying anyway these days due to supply chain issues.

[@nperry106]

NPR did a story about it years ago for This American Life. Hearing workers talk about conditions in the plant before Toyota came in was shocking to say the least.

[@wirebrush]

We had an 84 Chevrolet Nova when I was a kid which was the first car made in the NUMI plant and I now drive a Vibe GT. Both cars were and are amazingly reliable and durable.

[@zyxzyx3030]

@@rjherche You act like "supply chain issues" just happened in an vacuum.

[@tylernewton7217]

Those people on the passing train behind - “hey is that Doug Demuro doing a car review?! Nah, I must be seeing things, he wouldn’t review a Vibe!”

[@blackoutkr8183]

came looking for this comment!! I was on the train 😂😂

[@tylernewton7217]

@@blackoutkr8183 ha! No way! Cool.

[@blackoutkr8183]

@@tylernewton7217 nah I'm jk bro

[@blackoutkr8183]

@@yungboicontigo9278 hell cap

[@deoncardoza2051]

@@tylernewton7217 he's right. I was the train.

[@TDBRICKS]

That’s actually hilarious how the calendar goes up to 2020 😂

[@PhonyBologna]

As a software engineer, it makes me cringe. It's so easy to have a base calendar year (say 2005), and then every time you select +1 year it calculates out the next 365 days and stores it in memory. The repeat everytime you click +1 on the year. It's a stupid low amount of CPU power that even a computer from the 1980s could handle.

[@willhunt1143]

@@yungboicontigo9278 You mean Toyota.

[@GatoradeAndTigers]

2020 definitely NOT passing the Vibe check

[@carlit8617]

@@GatoradeAndTigers LMAOAOAOAO

[@nlpnt]

It's a 9th generation Corolla, they did that to give owners a reason to replace their 15-year-old car since there wouldn't be any other reason to.

[@Fifthcell]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="937">15:37</a> I AM SO HAPPY HE MENTIONED THIS. I’m glad other people know about the Voltz

[@jadenkouta2879]

I had a 05 regular vibe 5 speed loved that little car. The odometer stopped at 299,999. I must have had over 400,000 before I sold it. Guess GM never figured it would last that long.

[@davidbelville2463]

Actually I believe is was a "maintance" item ie you had to buy a new instrument panel ( which is no longer available)

[@lexuses3942]

That would actually really bother me, enough to sell it immediately.

[@biggranny000]

I have a 2020 Hyundai Elantra GT N-line, and nobody knows what it is either, but this is even more rare and unknown to people which is crazy. Lowkey wanted a vibe or a g6 or g8 when I was in highschool.

[@Jeepin290]

Vibes are super common where I live.

[@patricknolan8592]

Same - I have the Elantra N-Line's cousin, the Kia Forte GT. I see more McClaren 720s in LA than I see Forte GTs lol

[@Jeepin290]

@@yungboicontigo9278 Yeah haha

[@jonlosito2004]

My friend James had a Vibe but it was a base model and older. They’re actually pretty common in NY.

[@Jeepin290]

@@jonlosito2004 Yup, same here. I live in NY as well.

[@zerocool5395]

My mom had a Matrix XRS, and it was pretty quick. Really fun to drive.

[@jonlosito2004]

@@yungboicontigo9278 my mom used to own a 2005 Nissan Quest, a year after I was born, and I actually don’t find that boring at all. She now has a 2017 Subaru Forester XT Touring cuz the Body lines of the Quest were wearing off and she felt a little uncomfortable about the size of the minivan due to that she is short and doesn’t have good eye sight.

[@ashton9699]

Interesting quirk: The headlight system/electronics are by GM, so the car came standard with automatic headlights like their other models, but the stalk is by Toyota. So although the bottom position says "off", it actually means auto.

[@charlesdeens8927]

I had a 97 Pontiac Grand Prix. I loved its auto headlights. My next car didn't have auto headlights, and it felt so antiquated to have to remember to turn on the headlights.

[@zyxzyx3030]

Sure about that, my 2000 Camry has that exact setup, and there's no GM in the Camry.

[@ashton9699]

@@zyxzyx3030 Every other Toyota with automatic headlights has a dedicated AUTO position if it actually came with it from the factory. If you bought yours used, it's possible that it has an aftermarket autolight system installed in it (I once bought a Sienna that did).

[@zyxzyx3030]

@@ashton9699 No, I've had two Camry of this vintage, and my sister also had a 2001, same exact setup. All factory , daytime running lights+ auto headlamps. The owners manual describes exactly what they have.. They must have added the "auto" position later. Come to think of it my ex's 2004 highlander was exactly the same. Japanese vin vs US doesn't seem to have a bearing.

[@thenash76]

My mom has a 2007 base model Vibe and that thing is a TANK. One of the most reliable cars I've ever seen.

[@youtubedude3422]

The only car Doug has reviewed I've actually driven. I never thought I'd see the day

[@PhilhellenicAgori]

How’s the Enzo drive like

[@user-ov1jy2eq5e]

So excited when I saw the thumbnail! Because I'm currently inside my Automatic Matrix XRS that I converted into a camper! Doug totally missed the rear folding seats that fold completely flat. I'm able to lay down and sleep more comfortabley than I do at home. Amazing car. Great for car camping. Found my 2003 XRS with 180k miles for $2000 last year.

[@conzmoleman]

Yes!! I have camped in the back of my Matrix Xr many times!!! Also I love folding down the front passenger seat when I’m doordashing to take advantage of that perfect flat surface.

[@stephenmccabe9507]

Absolutely EPIC video. Never knew about this version of the Pontiac Vibe. Thanks for introducing me to it Doug!!

[@Htscondras92]

I own a 2004 Toyota Matrix. It's the base model. I just hit 128,000 miles on it. I bought it in September of 2020. Let me tell you, it's a fun car and it can haul. Living in New England, I get my fair share of snowstorms during the winter. When I bought it, I wasn't too sure how it would do in the snow. It proved to be very reliable. Cut through deep snow with no issues. As far as space goes, I have plenty of it. These cars are practical. They're reliable. They're fun to drive and gas mileage is great.

[@rightlanehog3151]

I drive a 2005 Vibe here in Ontario with similar mileage. If the earlier owners of your Matrix rustproofed it properly, your car should easily last another decade.

[@MikeS42069]

The Toyota Voltz story is my new favorite Dougfact.

[@1stargazer12]

“The vibes are immaculate” -someone somewhere at some time

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

One day her mother said to her😑☺️😋🤣

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

she fancied that she 🍪🍩🍨🍧

[@f-ckmyr0fil617]

walk nicely and quietly🤓🧐🤭🤫🤥🤡🤠

[@babakganji1045]

I drove from California to Florida with my Vibe with no issues. Amazing car.

[@Ch4MMPBoi]

Honestly it’s my dream daily driver. Love these cars. Thanks for appreciating it!

[@C-W-S]

Imagine how cool Pontiac would probably be if they were still around.

[@ProjectEurobeat]

Still think it was a bad decision for GM to kill Pontiac...

[@matthewlongtin4148]

GMC was also planned on getting the axe.

[@killerb4202]

Im still trying to figure out how Buick is still around? They should have axed them before Pontiac

[@sastrinidis]

Hopefully they'd be going pound for pound with Dodge Hellcats

[@damilolaakanni]

The Vibe would have been a rebadged version of the Corolla Cross/ CH-R.

[@bluetoes591]

Doug, you missed the whole point of the folding front passenger seat. If you fold down the front seat and the back seat, a huge stack of 8 foot lumber fits in with the hatch closed.

[@brickarranger2319]

I love that feature. I shocked some at Lowe's by opening up.the hatch and sliding a 2x4 in. He had to come around and see how I did it.

[@Atheist81]

That’s awesome! I never would have guessed the Pontiac Vibe was a little go getter. Pretty cool history on those as well. Love this channel!

[@bfulks2001]

I had a base model 2003 Vibe. That was a great car. Currently driving a VW because of the build quality, which was better in the Vibe.

[@Merkafide]

The NUMMI manufacturing plant that started the whole Toyota/GM partnership is one of the best automotive stories. PBS/This American Life has a great podcast about it.

[@indenturedLemon]

now churning Tesla but the quality of the Toyota wasn't there anymore

[@Demonz209]

Working at nummi was the best time period of my life. The bar down the street from the plant was a virtual kill zone for me.

[@bolt5564]

Thank you, I will listen to that immediately!!

[@jessebrook1688]

The Chevrolet Nova (no, not that Nova) and Toyota Corolla were the first products. Not many people remember them.

[@robduncan2816]

finally Doug reviews a car that i actually own, and mines not even a GT. but hey its just our errand car and its got 280,000 on the clock and still running well. Edit: this cars handling is by far the best ive ever driven for a "cheap" car

[@jamesstuart3346]

Yup I still have my 2003 Base, Monochrome Polar White with Moon N Tunes. 85000 miles. Handling is exceptional especially the steering

[@EricLS]

@@jamesstuart3346 good lord that’s low miles.

[@torquey2]

BANG FOR THE BUCK

[@oohhhdaniel]

THIS review answered so many questions. Much informative.

[@SychicGamer]

“They thought december 31, 2020 would be the end of all the vibes” tbh tho they were probably right. Even they in 2005 expected 2021 to not have any good vibes 😂😂😂

[@IMiteBeWrong]

The reverse beep was to alert the driver they were in reverse and not in first gear. Many manual (especially japanese) vehicles had reverse after 5th gear, so without thinking people used to that may throw the stick as far to the left as possible then up expecting to be in first gear.

[@OntarioTrafficMan]

Every manual I've driven has had a reverse lockout. So you need to do a second step (press a button, or lift the shifter, etc) to get into reverse. Japanese regulations require that beeper on all cars for some reason, including automatics. Not sure why they kept it for the US-spec Pontiac version though.

[@leevancleef553]

@@OntarioTrafficMan Yeah that's definitely unusual. Most you just stick them in reverse... no gates, buttons, nothing. I have a couple of modern 6 speeds where you push down on the stick to get into reverse but you could still do it by accident.

[@GVoy]

There is one big quirk: Yamaha largely contributed in developing this particular engine. It was not 'regular' Toyota's 😉

[@Legend-lc9bv]

Yahama is right down the street from Toyota in Japan what’s the problem with that?

[@jrfish007]

@@Legend-lc9bv not really a problem, just a quirk

[@2qwik4u]

Yamaha contributes to lots of Toyota engines, since big T owns 30% of Yamaha.

[@mitch9521]

Every wide valve angle "G" head for Toyotas were designed by Yamaha.

[@jessebrook1688]

In fact, right on top of the deck, just below the gasket, is the Yamaha name.

[@tomyost6330]

I have an '04 Vibe GT that I love. This dang car is so much fun. It's no drag racer, but once it hits 6200 it's like afterburners kick in for two grand, with fuel cutoff at 8300. Mine has 240K on the clock and still strong, no smoke, always passes emissions. Did have to remove the trans at 215K when syncro and gear went south because oil leaked out and never checked/topped. Rebuilt it myself with Toyota parts. The clutch always worked great, with good bite, so it was not touched. Installed the repaired trans, drove for a month and had shifting problems second to third. The shift arm at the trans mounting spot had to me moved just a small amount. But!! Now remember this. You cannot get to the bolts to loosen the shift mount with it in the car. I tried and tried. The trans must come out to get to the dang bolts. But this car is worth it because of that engine. This Toyota Pontiac is not rusting easy either. And more fun than my Fiat 124 or Porsche 944. Go figure. Peace.

[@DimoS...]

Very reliable the 2zzge mate!

[@DimoS...]

What oil you use my friend?

[@ChrisParayno]

I had the Toyota AWD version with the 2.4. it was a great hatch, especially in the snow.

[@TrueNomadSkies]

I remember those and always saw them as the best model of these cars, especially growing up in the middle of Canada where we had notable winters. Similar deal with the Caliber and whatever that little Suzuki hatch was.

[@samuelele]

„Yet, nobody remembers it… until today.“ doug being reflective about his level of influence

[@martin6485]

exactly what i thought...he knows

[@f181234]

He is right tho no one literally knows about this car

[@adamlytle2615]

I was never really a "car guy" and only got pulled along into car ownership by my now ex-wife. By virtue of that relationship I drove a '94 Protege, then a '99 Tercel and then the '05 Vibe. The Vibe was BY FAR my favourite of the 3. Sold it about 6 years ago and genuinely miss driving it. Style wise though, I think I prefer the model from a year or two earlier with the slightly more agressively styled front end and the grey plastic trim around the bottom -- though that grey plastic has generally not aged well.

[@TheHitmanAgent]

Nice B-Roll shots with the train zooming by. Great job!

[@bartekmachaj]

Doug you're the only YT guy I reckon who does not give a thing about trends and you review everything from hyper dream cars and stuff that regular people can "handle". Big thumbs up for you and for your work!

[@kaleba9333]

Bought a 2004 GT for my daughter to learn how to drive a manual over 3 years ago. Great little car! 225,000 miles and still going strong! Now the second daughter is learning with it. Can’t say enough great things about it, all of the negative comments are just silly.

[@MC4D.]

That's a Toyota for ya (not gonna let Pontiac take that credit lol)

[@kaleba9333]

@@MC4D. completely agree

[@chrisruddy8406]

I have a Vibe and love it! You didn't put the front seat back all the way down, though. Once you lower it you need to pull the recline lever to make the table flat. I've changed my kids' diapers on this more times than I can count.

[@ChloeMarieMurphy]

No way!!! It goes fully flat!???? I’ve been driving a 2005 vibe for almost 7 years and had no idea.

[@LS3ftw15]

It’s not the dual variable cams that gives it the top end kick, it’s the two stage valve lift similar to early VTEC that does it. The 2ZZ-FE has VVTL-i, which was only used by Toyota on that engine. At ~6000 RPM the engine switches to the higher lift cam lobes, resulting in more top-end power and a slight change to the engine note at switchover. It’s Toyota’s equivalent of VTEC just kicked in, yo! I was expecting Doug to cover that quirk a bit more thoroughly since it’s a very unique part of the 2ZZ engine. Still enjoyed the review of course.

[@35mmpistol]

I had the standard vibe as my first car, and I've been waiting for you to review this since I started watching your channel years ago!

[@terrablume]

I just wanna know how you found a pristine example 😭

[@BoopBobBeep]

Doug have connection with alot of people so also no surprise he get to review any rare car.

[@dickriggles942]

Most actually held up well over the years.

[@roddydykes7053]

There’s a pretty noticeable dent in the door

[@tylerf6528]

@@roddydykes7053 my bad I must’ve fallen 🍆

[@RockyFoxxowo]

Most vibes i see barely have a front bumper nowadays

[@fedorzaytsev410]

I have a 2000 Celica Gt-s with same engine and it is so fun. It is not fast from until 5k RPM or in 4th gear, but anywhere between 20-60mph it is super fun. You can really feel this moment when VVTL kicks in

[@pwilliams6405]

I enjoyed this clip Doug ! I love seeing reviews of cars of yesteryear Thanks Doug :)

[@emotionz3]

My neighbor years ago had the Matrix XRS version of this with a, apparently, bolt on supercharger from Toyota in the form of the scion TC TRD supercharger (different engine but overall identical format) and it was a monster. I don’t think she ever dyno’d it but it was easily 200hp and could peal out whatever performance tires it had on it through 3rd gear - a notable achievement for the 2ZZ when you consider it has 2/3rd the torque of its horsepower. Someone rear ended it in the snow during a Chicago winter storm and I was declared totaled. Man I wish I could have bought back that motor it was really incredible and you know it would still be running strong to this day.

[@reggiethecommenter9137]

I actually love these.

[@ashravenpb]

I'm glad there are others that appreciate the Vibe. Its a fantastic first car being practical, reliable, fun, and cheap. I wish it was on my radar when buying my first car.

[@Titanic19127]

Honestly I’m surprised a 2005 Pontiac had a nav system/radio like that. It was a big deal back then.

[@ItsJSTNDAD]

My 2003 Toyota Matrix XRS came with a navigation system for around $1800 I purchase back in September of 2002 with a sticker price $18,750

[@flambo9950]

These are my favorite type of doug uploads

[@scottiev77]

My uncle worked for GM and always had Grand Prix’s, Caddy’s, etc as company cars. His last one while at GM was a Vibe GT and I just didn’t get why, had no idea that it was actually fun.

[@georgemansouratti3792]

From Syria with love, go forward Doug

[@trevorn2969]

Such kind words, i wish you a kind day, be well

[@joshsamuel6300]

I'm glad to see a review on the Pontiac Vibe GT. I would love to see you do a review on a 2004-06 gen Pontiac GTO and a 2008-09 Pontiac G8.

[@rubenlay610]

I'm amused that you mentioned 3 pontiacs that aren't really pontiacs.

[@fearlessfreep]

Always wanted a Vibe/Matrix. I remember the standard household outlet being a selling point in the commercial!

[@donnyo639]

Great little compact wagon. Not-so-fun fact: The Vibe/Matrix odometers will stop working and freeze up at 299,999 miles due to a programming fault. The base model with the 5-speed, 1ZZ motor suites me just fine. Also: this GT model has a licence place issued in 2009, not 2005.

[@sspiker6246]

That’s what I thought - the head unit doesn’t look like that on the 2005s.

[@DieselWeasel]

The Voltz didn't have a squished Toyota badge up front, they just made a custom V shape to go there instead.

[@vapor4den]

Finally ! I was waiting for Doug review of the 2ZZ-GE engine, he goes pretty deap and explain everything you need to know... Great job ! Next the Celica or the Elise ?

[@richdaley9982]

I had a friend that owned a non-GT Pontiac Vibe and I used to borrow it from time to time. I really thought that was a great car even with the less powerful engine. I don't have much experience driving performance cars but It handled so much better than other regular cars I had driven and I thought it was really fun to drive.