Starting MSRP: $16,100 Base Engine: 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with 132 hp Base MPG: 26 city/32 hwy/28 cmb Incentive: $2,500 cash back or 0% APR Expires: 11/30/09
You heard the news: Pontiac is dead and 2009 is the last model year for almost the entire lineup -- all except for the 2010 Vibe. This fraternal twin of the Toyota Matrix is Pontiac's last hurrah, and with reliable Toyota DNA in its genes, it's likely to be a long-lasting one. The Vibe's interior is attractive and spacious, fuel economy is good (with the 1.8-liter engine; not so much with the 2.4-liter), and it's tough to argue with the practicality of a hatchback. Another thing that's tough to argue with? A hefty $2,500 cash rebate on an already-affordable $16,000 wagon. GM is offering other incentives as well (including $500 cash to dealer), so it's worth some additional research to grab the best deal. They've been liquidating for a while though, so the Vibe may be hard to find.