new car
The grand prix is really in a sad state. We don't want to sink any more money into it so that means it's time for a new car. We've ordered a 2007 Pontiac Vibe. This is essentially a Toyota Matrix, which is itself kind of a hatchback version of the Toyota Corolla. The Vibe and Matrix are both manufactured at a joint-venture plant in California.
I had really, really wanted to get a VW Rabbit TDI, alas it does not yet exist and probably won't until VW can come up with a new TDI that meets the new diesel emissions restrictions in the U.S. I've read that we probably won't see the new, cleaner diesels until 2008. That meant we were looking for a gasoline drinker for now.
So why the Vibe? Plenty of reasons....
- Comes in a 5-speed manual version
- Scored very well on NHTSA and Eurocap crash tests (Toyota Verso variant tested in Europe)
- Hatchback is very useful/practical
- Good on fuel consumption: 30 city/ 36 hwy
- Pontiac/GM brand means we save several thousand with discounts and points.
Not the most exciting car ever, but I like the looks well enough and the stick makes it pretty fun to drive.
